February Issue of Check is in the Mail

Celebrating New Leadership and Engaging Combinations in Chess

Welcome Message from Michael Buss, US Chess Correspondence Coordinator

Congratulations to Jeffrey French on his election as President of the Correspondence Chess League of America (CCLA)!

Highlights of This Issue

In this edition, we continue our focus on Combinations with games and puzzles. Explore the featured games from various tournaments and enjoy the interactive puzzles designed to challenge your skills.

Let’s Dive In!

February Issue of Check is in the Mail: Celebrating New Leadership and Chess Combinations

By [Your Name]

In the latest edition of Check is in the Mail, the chess community is buzzing with excitement as Jeffrey French has been elected President of the Correspondence Chess League of America (CCLA). Michael Buss, the US Chess Correspondence Coordinator, announced that French began his two-year term on January 1st, marking a new chapter for the league.

This February issue continues the tradition of exploring chess combinations, a theme that began last year. Readers are encouraged to delve into both games and puzzles that highlight strategic maneuvers, with references to the February 2025 issue for further study.

Featured Games

This month’s issue showcases six thrilling games, including three from the 2025 Electronics Knights tournament and two from the prestigious 2025 Absolute Championship. The final game comes from the Walter Muir E-Quads tournament, providing a diverse array of strategies and tactics.

1. Game 1: Decoy, Skewer, and Double Attack

   • Players: Garrett Schmidt vs. Craig M. Moore
   • Opening: C50: Hungarian Defence
   • Result: Schmidt forced a resignation after his 30th move.

2. Game 2: Discovered Attack and Remove Defender

   • Players: Alex Strobehn vs. Lawrence Crittenton
   • Opening: C18: French
   • Result: A draw was agreed upon after Strobehn’s 36th move.

3. Game 3: Pin, Skewer, Discovered Attack, and Double Attack

   • Players: Keith A. Rodriguez vs. Daniel M. Horwitz
   • Opening: B51: Sicilian
   • Result: A draw after Rodriguez’s 45th move.

4. Game 4: Discovered Attack and Decoy

   • Players: Harry Ingersol vs. David Sogin
   • Opening: B07: Pirc Defence
   • Result: Ingersol forced a resignation after his 53rd move.

5. Game 5: Deflection, Discovered Attack, Double Attack, and Pin

   • Players: Austin Anderson vs. Tim Boldt
   • Opening: A10: English Opening
   • Result: Anderson forced a resignation after his 31st move.

6. Game 6: Deflection and Double Attack

   • Players: William E. Perry vs. Nokhum Markushevich
   • Opening: D00: Unusual lines
   • Result: Perry forced a resignation after his 42nd move.

Engaging Puzzles

In addition to the games, this issue features interactive puzzles that challenge players to apply their skills. Each puzzle incorporates a Double Attack along with another combination, allowing enthusiasts to sharpen their tactical acumen.

• Puzzle 1: Skewer
• Puzzle 2: Discovered Attack
• Puzzle 3: Deflection

Players can access these puzzles online for an interactive experience, enhancing their problem-solving skills.

From the Front Office

Michael D. Buss also shared exciting news about new online entry portals for correspondence chess events, making it easier for players to participate. The Seasonal Server Series will now be available to US Chess members, allowing for dual ratings in both CCLA and USCF.

In a bittersweet note, the chess community mourns the passing of R. Raymond Garrison of Perry, Michigan, who left us on December 20, 2025. His contributions to the game will be remembered.

Conclusion

As we celebrate new leadership and the thrill of chess combinations, the February issue of Check is in the Mail promises to engage and inspire players of all levels. Look for the next issue around March 1st, 2026, and don’t forget to send in your correspondence games for potential inclusion!

For more information, visit the US Chess Correspondence Chess page.

Stay tuned for more updates and keep your chess skills sharp!