NUMBERS 14-15 -- GARY BARKER and JAMES BREEDEN

Yesterday was a "hooray" day for me as Gary Barker signed up for the Chess Clinic this October. Today is "hooray" day as James Breeden, age 75, and from faraway Massachusetts said HE is coming. Don't let distance be a reason for NOT coming, nor age. He says he's been wanting to meet me. I hope I can live up to that.

Now and then I still get some people who want to know WHY this will be the last one. I sometimes send explanations, especially if they have been to previous ones. One answer is that while virtually everybody who has been to one tells me what a great time they have had, it isn't easy to get new people who are often afraid to take a chance.

Amazingly there are shy people who are afraid to come for fear they may be called upon to answer a question. Other people jump out of their seats to volunteer. Here's the DEAL: As soon as you find yourself HAVING fun you forget your self-inflicted protocols and start joining in. On the other hand, if you've been answer many questions, as there are more and more "clients" you tend to recede into the background.

It always helps if the presenter has a great sense of humor, as Andrew Martin certainly does. If YOU have a sense of humor then you are gearing up for a fantastic experience.

Some of you know that July 16th is the deadline for registering so that you will be entered into a drawing for the opportunity to win a FREE pass to whatever next's year's event will be--maybe a fast tournament and openings' workshop! It's worth $185 and includes free entry into the event. But you have to register by July 16th. The fees are $125 if you own a Gold Card and $139 if you do not.

The Clarion Hotel is awaiting your sleeping accommodation reservations at $74 per night. Their phone number is 563-391-1230.

Yes, I do take checks, cash, credit cards (Visa, MC, and Discover) as well as PayPal; that should offer you options.

Gary Barker has visited us many times and he keeps coming back--Chicagoans can do that!

Don't wimp out or play the excuse game, show me I am wrong about having this as the last one. Already have 2/3rds+ of last year's attendees. Fence riding is over folks, it's that brutal. If you like shameless direct talk, you will like me. With Bob, you don't have to guess what I mean (unless you are a woman!). Welcome Gary and James. Love you guys.

bob@thinkerspressinc.com