Fellow Chessplayers: Approximately 6 years ago, the administration of the NCCA was embarrassed by evidence of negligence and malfeasance.  A new election took place and in stepped NM Neal D. Harris of Old Fort. Neal rescued our organization from the depths of "Davy Jones locker" (or some other Jones' locker) and guided us to the effective and financially viable association we have today. Though we have had our political differences through the years, and we have certainly had our tense moments over the chessboard (Neal defeated me in Rd:4 of the 1986 Invitational preventing me from winning the Title!?) I have great respect for his honesty and integrity.  He has proven himself to be an effective leader who possesses great concern for his fellow chessplayers. Thank you NM Neal Harris for the many years of tireless work and energy which you have donated to the NCCA. Respectfully, NM Leland Fuerstman ************************************ Leland,                                               Thanks for the totally unexpected comments... over these many years, you have been nothing but kind toward me... 6 years ago I needed you to step forward for the good of NC Chess... being my VP was not an easy job!... but you did not hestitate because you are also concerned about this noble game that we love... and I think that you and I use the "good cop/bad cop" routine for the good of all NC Chess players... as far as I am concerned, Leland and I have no political differences... and yes, I remember our game at the 1986 NC Invitational... spectators actually threw quarters on the board afterwards... I must have made 2 or 3 dollars from that game! Best regards, Neal Harris