…I wanna be checkmated
The Ramones had a humble and unique embracing when it came to losses, that’s the only way we can learn and grow. Normally, this is where I would point out how chess is tied into the songs we know and love. Instead, I would like to point our a few schools that are fundraising to compete for Nationals.
Plymouth Middle School is planning to compete in K8 Nationals, and has partnered with Frankies Pizza, hosting a dining fundraiser where a generous portion of food sales will be donated to their cause on March 7th when you mention this when you order. Put aside your Taco Tuesday plans that day and enjoy a slice of success!
Nicollet Knights are also planning to compete in K8 Nationals, and they will be hosting their annual silent auction. Nicollet Knights, formerly Metcalf Masters, is led by Brian Ribnick. In the past 52 years, he has led his kids to 22 National Championships and more State titles. Until the auction becomes publicized, you may donate to their cause.
Will you be in the Apple Valley area next weekend? Eastview High School will be representing Minnesota in the K12 High School Nationals, and will be bagging groceries at the Cedar Avenue location. While the main focus will be state this weekend as one of the favorites, feel free to get some shopping errands done next weekend and congratulate them in person.
While I have been doing this communication for a while, some are hearing this for the first time. Players, coaches, and parents admitted they have sung this in the shower the morning before the Scholastic. Well…I do too. Why refer it to “chess thing?” It comes from this scene in Searching for Bobby Fischer
Without further ado, I present to you John Denver with some final advice to you for this weekend.
[Chess] bags are packed and ready to go
And notation, and pencil, chess clock, ect.
I’m standin’ here outside your door, I hate to wake you up to say goodbye
Did you preregister? Get some extra rest then.
But the dawn is breakin’ it’s early morn’ The taxi’s waitin’ he’s blowin’ his horn
Probably feels like being a cab driver at times, eh? Just remind them who keeps a roof over their head.
Already I’m so lonesome I could die
Chess is not a spectator sport for most people, many find time chatting with fellow parents and really getting to know one another.
So kiss me and smile for me, Tell me that you’ll wait for me
Flattered, but I don’t know all of you that well. I won’t whisper sweet nothings into your ear. Maybe, I will ever so softly squeeze your shoulder, but nothing more!
Hold me like you’ll never let me go
They sure grow up fast, don’t they?
Cause I’m leavin’ for a [chess thing]; Don’t know when I’ll be back again
Oh babe, I hate to go,
Congrats Seniors, and to all of you embarking on a new chapter in your lives.
There’s so many times I’ve let you down; So many times I’ve played around
Many games are decided because of playing too fast, will it happen to you?
I tell you now, they don’t mean a thing; Every place I go, I’ll think of you
Every song I sing, I’ll sing for you; When I come back, I’ll bring your wedding ring
Again, flattered…
Cause I’m leavin’ for a [chess thing]; Don’t know when I’ll be back again Oh babe, I hate to go
For those who have taken the time to read this till the end, thank you for your time.
Good Luck to everyone playing this weekend!
Jiten Patel, Chess Consultant
From your first move to your last
On and off the chessboard
(original published date March 3, 2023)