Although this comes rather late (because I just remembered that this communications channel was open to me), I'd like to say thank you and congratulations to everyone at the CCSCSL for the recent US Women's and Junior Closed Championships.

I spent as much time as I could that week listening to and watching the commentary by Jen Shahade and Ben Finegold, looking at the photos and videos, and reading the reports by Mike Wilmering and Katie Baldetti.

But more than that, I especially appreciated that the players were treated with respect and honor. As Iryna Zenyuk said in a report on chess.com, "I must admit that playing in St. Louis makes me feel like a celebrity."

I think events like this elevate the status of the game not only within the confines of chess culture itself but in the broader community as well.

I can only guess at the amount of work that went into the Championships, but from a fan of chess just let me express my gratitude to everyone involved.

Amy

Chess Club and Scholastic Center of Saint Louis Members

Super Admins