Summer chess is officially underway!
First City Chess Club has transitioned to its summer meeting schedule at the Leavenworth Public Library. We currently plan to return to the Kansas City Kansas Community College Pioneer Career Campus when the fall semester begins.
Thank you to everyone for remaining flexible as we continue building the club, expanding our programming, and creating more opportunities for people to play chess throughout the Leavenworth area.
Join Us Monday Evening
Our next club meeting will be held:
Monday, June 22, 2026
6:00–8:30 PM
Leavenworth Public Library — Jahn Room
417 Spruce Street
Leavenworth, Kansas 66048
View the location on Google Maps
As always, players of every age and skill level are welcome. Whether you are a scholastic player, a casual player looking for a friendly game, or a competitive tournament player preparing for your next event, there is a place for you at First City Chess.
Additional Summer Meeting Dates
The Leavenworth Public Library has approved additional meeting dates for the club, including:
June 30, 2026 — 6:00 PM
Art & Lucille Jahn Meeting Room
We are continuing to coordinate additional dates and will announce them as soon as they are finalized. Keep an eye on the First City Chess Club website and Facebook page for the most current schedule.
Summer Reading Chess Program
The Leavenworth Public Library is also hosting a Summer Reading Chess Program, led by James Sigmon.
These sessions are open to players of all skill levels and provide younger players and families with another opportunity to play, learn, and receive instruction during the summer.
Tuesdays from 2:00–4:00 PM
Leavenworth Public Library
Upcoming sessions are scheduled for:
- June 30
- July 7
- July 14
- July 21
- July 28
Between the Summer Reading Chess Program and our regular club meetings, there should be plenty of opportunities to get games in this summer.
Keep Working on Your Chess
Players can continue working through the First City Chess Club puzzle collection on Lichess:
First City Chess Club Puzzle Study
Try to solve each position before moving the pieces. Look for checks, captures, threats, tactical patterns, and your opponent’s possible responses before committing to an answer.
Upcoming Local Chess Tournaments
Several major local events are approaching in July:
2026 Kansas Blitz State Chess Tournament
July 10, 2026
Registration and tournament information
2026 Kansas State Chess Tournament
July 11–12, 2026
Registration and tournament information
Free Chess in Basehor #8
July 18, 2026
Registration and tournament information
These events offer excellent opportunities to gain tournament experience, meet players from across the region, and test the skills you have been developing at the club.
Join or Renew Your US Chess Membership Through the Club
Players who are not currently members of US Chess may join through First City Chess Club. We can also assist with renewing existing memberships.
Complete the First City Chess Club US Chess membership form
Payment may be submitted through:
Players may also join directly through the US Chess Federation.
Joining through First City Chess Club helps strengthen our official membership numbers and increases the club’s visibility within US Chess.
Help Build the Competitive Side of First City Chess
As the club grows, we need additional members who are interested in serving as Tournament Directors or Assistant Tournament Directors.
Applicants must be at least 14 years old, and minors must have the consent of a parent or guardian. First City Chess Club is willing to sponsor the required Safe Play registration for members who are ready to help.
Tournament Directors make rated chess possible. They help organize events, explain tournament rules, resolve disputes, submit results, and ensure that competitions are conducted fairly.
Anyone interested in helping us develop the competitive side of the club should contact us.
Chess Coaching and Private Lessons
Players who want individual instruction have several coaching options available.
Online Coaching
Phil Hopkins
Chess.com Profile
Lichess Profile
Lessons are available through WhatsApp for £25 GBP per hour.
Local Coaches
Patrick Beaudry
Schedule a lesson
Ken Sarner — RoamingHobo Chess
[email protected]
DaVaun Williams — H1Chess
H1Chess Links
Private lessons with Patrick are currently available virtually through Lichess or WhatsApp, or in person at the library, the student’s home, or another agreed-upon public location. Sunday lessons may also be available.
Stay Connected
Visit FirstCityChess.com for club announcements, meeting information, and upcoming events.
You can also follow the First City Chess Club Facebook page.
Players who have not registered with the club can complete our First City Chess Club registration form.
Players who would like help establishing or accomplishing their chess goals can also complete our Chess Goals Survey.
We look forward to seeing everyone at the board this summer!
Patrick Beaudry
FIDE Arena Candidate Master
President, First City Chess Club
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