Fuerstman and Newsom Agree to a Draw!! (Note: Gary Newsom has refused to endorse this document) It is our pleasure to inform the North Carolina chess public that "the war is over!" After intense positive negotiations over the weekend, both parties have decided that: "for the good of the entire North Carolina chess community, we shall abandon our differences of the past, and move forward with a clean slate." Hence, all messages pertaining to the criticism of organizers, directors, or other members by either party have been "permanently" removed from all NC chess web pages and message boards! For those members who have "taken sides," we accept equal responsibility and apologize for the contentious atmosphere which has prevailed for so long. Therefore, in the future, both parties agree to address important issues with a more polite form of communication, always rendering mutual respect. Whether you like him, or not, NM Leland Fuerstman has literally dedicated his entire life to promote our royal game. His activities of the past included a simultaneous exhibition in 1983 with over 600 spectators whereby GM Victor Korchnoi played 50 local players! He has served as President of the NCCA and has conducted the Charlotte Chess Club for almost 40 years! The CCC website is always "entertaining" and up to date! Fuerstman continues to sign up new members, conduct the club, participate as a player and promote local events. Leland has agreed to "tone down his criticism." And, whether you like him, or not, though not involved as an organizer for quite as long, Gary Newsom has also brought Grandmasters to Charlotte! Furthermore, he has more recently been instrumental in promoting some of the most successful chess events that North Carolina has ever seen! If sheer numbers determine success, Gary wins the prize! His 2 upcoming major events should surpass last years numbers! In addition, Gary founded the QCCA and seems to have left it in good hands. Gary has agreed to "endorse the efforts of other organizers." In a show of good faith, both Newsom and Fuerstman have invited the other to participate at each others club! It is time to forget the past, enjoy the present and make greater plans for the future. Each of these gentlemen has issued a private apology to the other, but both join together in apologizing to the entire North Carolina chess community. There are many positive things in store! We must all thank chief arbitrator Tom Hales from Asheboro for assisting in solving this matter. Without his determination to bring both parties together for discussion, this issue may have never been resolved. Now, let's all just play chess and have some fun!  The war is over... tell your friends, the war is over!! Very sincerely, NM Leland Fuerstman (Note: Gary Newson has refused to endorse this document)--