Fellow Chessplayers: This editor recently learned that local chess promoter Expert Gary Newsom may have been offended by my recent blog describing chess clubs that have come and gone in Charlotte over the years. (See Message 0279) He was concerned that his good name was "associated" with others who were not so good. The following three paragraphs are copied from a recent E-mail. "Gary:  I understand your anger at being on the same list as a criminal like Bernard Parham? And, I intend to address that issue with a future posting. Remember, I did say 'I humbly submit that a few of these humanitarians actually spent a lot of positive time and energy attempting to populate our local chess community.' And I readily include you in that group. I honestly believe your intentions and Mike's and Peter's are absolutely honorable. But, I disagree with some of the ways you are going about it. Unfortunately, we have a polarized chess community. Apparently, you either like Leland, or you hate him; nothing in between!!? LOL There are many strong players in Charlotte whom we have not seen for some time. Now that we have a wonderful new location, I'm hoping to encourage all of them to return to CCC competition in the near future." Finally, as a result of my feable attempt at humor, if I have offended either Gary Newsom or Mike Eberhardinger, I apologize. And, yes Gary, you are absolutely welcome to compete in the Charlotte Chess Club. I hope to see you there this Wednesday. You too, Mike! Sincerely, NM Leland Fuerstman