December was another exciting month for me!
I recently had the privilege of working the US Chess National Grade Championship in Spokane, Washington, where US Chess Director of Events Pete Karagianis presented me with my National Tournament Director lapel pin. Three fellow tournament directors also received their pins, making it a special moment for all of us.
While in Spokane, I was invited to serve as a Section Chief at the National Middle School Championship coming to Round Rock in May 2026, and I am excited to take on that role.
I also worked the North American Open in Las Vegas for the second time, an event that set yet another attendance record and delivered long but very rewarding days.
Looking ahead, my schedule is packed: MLK Day (Houston) and Presidents Day (Virginia) tournaments with the Atlantic Chess Association, the Lonestar Open (Houston), HCA Saturday scholastics, and the weekly Friday night Knights of Cypress events. It is shaping up to be a very busy and fulfilling first quarter in the chess world!
– Peter Craney, NTD/FA
Chief Organizer – Cypress Chess, LLC
“Chess Builds Strong Minds!”