The Hip-Hop Chess Federation Blog

Kung Fu Movies Encourage Women to be Mentally and Physically Strong

2012-02-13T21:51:00.000-08:00

Every girl should see Wing Chun....

Yesterday was so amazing. V-Day was so powerful. Here are some highlights!

2012-02-12T23:52:00.000-08:00

Adisa, GM Vinay Bhat and panel moderator T-KASH: Photo , Christine Schoville
Asheru and Adisa Banjoko stand proudly with canvas painted live at V-Day by Reyes Muertos !: Photo , Christine Schoville

Ralek Gracie, Adisa Banjoko and Denny Prokopos
One art, One people One love: Photo Par Ryan of Jupiter Jiu Jitsu

HHCF Life Strategies Panel w/ Asheru, Dawn-Elissa Fischer, Eric Schiller, Ralek Gracie and US Chess Federations Ruth Haring. T-Kash was the moderator. : Photo Pat Ryan

V-Day HHCF competitor enjoying the day! :
Photo , Christine Schoville

John O'Connell students enjoy the spoils of war on V-Day!
Photo , Christine Schoville

You know, not all the songs about chess in Hip-Hop are positive...some can be dark

2012-02-12T19:16:00.000-08:00

Pawns in a chess game, is who they say we are/ 'Cause we go around the city bustin' gats outta cars/ At others like us, or we could see your race/ Tear drops on my face for my boys in the grave! -Conejo, Pawns In A Chess Game

Hip-Hop Chess Federation Featured in San Jose Mercury!

2012-02-12T18:02:00.000-08:00

The HHCF had a pretty epic week. It started with a powerful lecture at San Francisco State University and ended with HHCF 5 year anniversary jam. On the day of the event, this great article in the San Jose Mercury! Hip-Hop chess was on the front page of the local section. It focuses on some of the youth outreach HHCF has been doing in the Silicon Valley.

Ralek Gracie will be at Heroes Martial Arts in San Jose Feb 10th for a jiu jitsu seminar 7-9 pm. Its only $40

2012-02-07T22:39:00.000-08:00

460 South Market Street San Jose, CA 95113
(408) 288-8857 ask for Gumby
THIS SEMINAR IS WITH THE GI!!

BREAKING : HHCF Founder Adisa Banjoko to Lecture on Chess & Life Feb 6th at San Francisco State University

2012-02-04T21:07:00.000-08:00

The class is run by Prof. Dawn- Elissa Fissher and Davy D. Its called "Hiphop, Globalization and the Politics of Identity" at San Francisco State University. Science Building, Room 101, Monday, February 6 (class meets 4:10pm- 6:50pm). Adisa will be speaking about the overlapping history of Hip-Hop, chess and martial arts and how they are helping to unify people of all racial, economic, religious and cultural backgrounds.

The King of the South Plays #CHESS In his rap videos...He did more for chess in the hood than half of you think you do

2012-02-04T10:05:00.000-08:00

"Life is a game of chess and the object is to kill the king. If you anoint yourself king, you have made yourself a target" - T.I.

If you don't get it after this, I'm not sure you're being honest with yourself...

2012-02-04T09:50:00.001-08:00

You think you know Asheru cause you heard him on the Boondocks! But you have no idea....what his skill and level is...

2012-02-04T09:44:00.001-08:00

Please still don't hear me, THIS EVENT IS FREE OF CHARGE AND ALL AGES

2012-02-04T09:40:00.000-08:00

For All My Young Queens Out There...especially my daughters...You...Will...Rise #neverforget

2012-02-04T09:38:00.001-08:00

Hip-Hop Chess Federation on the Cover of Chess Life Mag! OUT NOW!

2012-02-02T07:13:00.000-08:00

Real quick, I just want to say that I know I'm not wearing socks. I used to surf and boogie board (I'm a suburban kid from Cali, what can I say). But seriously folks, I want to shout out some of the people who helped make this happen. First of all, there are truly too many to name. So, please forgive me if I left anyone out. I have never done HHCF alone. I never will.

Much respect to my wife (put in more work than anybody, including me to make HHCF happen), Leo Libiran III aka Blast One, Dr. Alan Kirshner (the first person from the mainstream chess world to support me, Dr. Salman Azhar from Bay Area Chess, Hal Bogner, Tom Langland, Daaim Shabazz, Emory Tate, T-KASH, RZA, Balance, San Quinn, Shamako Noble, DLabrie, Rahman Jamaal, Immortal Technique, DJ Qbert, Vinay Bhat, DJ Kevvy Kev, Hieroglyphics, Casual, Zion I, Sunspot Jonz, Amir Sulaiman, Conscious Daughters (RIP Special One), Marilyn Yalom, RAW Talents, Davey D and Dawn-Elissa Fischer, Dr. James Peterson, Ralph and Charles Gracie, my instructor Alan "Gumby" Marques and the entire HEROES Martial Arts Jiu Jitsu Team, Rener, Ryron and Rener Gracie (much respect always), Luke Stewart, Denny "300" Prokopos, Rakaa Iriscience, Eddie Bravo, The HHCF Jiu Jitsu Team, Josh Waitzkin, Sergio Silva, Billy Ray, Leo Jones Jr., Elaine Moskowitz, Kay Hones, all the OC teachers, faculty and staff, Universal Zulu Nation, Jada Pinkett-Smith, Angie Golighty, Big Pat, Lil Pat and the Mahoney family, Erik K. Arnold, David Frazee Esq., Alicia, Yusef and everybody at K&L Gates, Eric Murrah, Phil Shpilberg, anyone who has ever donated their time, money or advice...thank you.....all the volunteers of this org....all those who have been patient with me in setting the structure of this org...Anybody who kicked in for chessboards, clocks and took time to teach kids the things I could not and last but not least Jean Hoffman, Jen Shahade at 9 Queens and everybody at Chess Life Magazine. Be aware that this is a super edited list. But your trust and loyalty mean a lot to me. I will not forget it.

But I also want to thank the kids who inspire me to never quit: Raheem, Dyhemia, El-Rey, Shirley, Carlos, all the original HHCF John O'Connell crew....Too many kids to name, but got love for all of you. Stay strong on the block.

Ralek Gracie Interview after his last MMA match...coming to V-Day Feb 11 to Engage the youth

2012-02-01T21:40:00.000-08:00

The Bay is on FIRE waiting Asheru to come kick science at HHCF's V-Day!

2012-02-01T21:35:00.000-08:00

Will you stand alone as man, as a man has to sometimes....?

2012-01-31T08:57:00.000-08:00

Be sure to teach your child the 3 C's!

2012-01-30T06:31:00.000-08:00

Being a mentor is a full time job. It is often very hard to know if you are doing well at it. I work with kids everyday in my organization, www.hiphopchessfederation.org . Today one of the kids I mentor was talking to me about his life goals (we will call him Marcus). Sometimes Marcus jokes a lot. I saw some of his constant joking as a mask. I pulled him aside today, and after wishing him Happy New Year I asked “When you sit at home after school, what do you dream about being?”

Marcus quickly glanced around to make sure nobody could hear him and said without hesitation “A genetic engineer.” His face was serene, but serious. You could tell he’s probably never shared that dream. It is my job to help him manifest that dream.

“So what is keeping you from that right now?” I inquired.

“Mostly my math grades” he said, using his foot to play with pebbles on the ground.

Marcus and I made a deal. I told him I’d introduce him to an African American friend of mine at who worked in the field of genetic engineering. But he would have to bring his math grade up. He smiled at the idea after we shook hands.

As we talked more I told him more about life after high school. How quickly you and your friends no longer hang out. How life gets in the way over time. People go to college, get jobs, move away, have babies etc. I told Marcus that it was important for him to really embrace his vision of what he wants to be, because he is truly in charge of it.

“In the end it all comes down to the three C’s” I said: College, career, or crime.

College: The best thing for you to do is stay in school. This economy is cold right now. It is harder to survive out here than you understand. You need the education and the network of college to get beyond the invisible walls of the ghetto. College is essential. There is no better option for you in this time. If you won’t go to college, then you have to dedicate yourself personally to studying online, and spending your extra money on books. Nothing ensures your safety like knowledge.

Career: If you don’t stay in college, your career is your path to peace. You have to stay focused. You must to put in extra hours studying you craft, so you can excel. Be someone your boss can depend on. Try to do something you like, it will make the hard times easier.

Crime: If you fail to do the first two, crime is your destiny. An uneducated Black man, cannot get a job. A Black man with no job will inevitably get an empty stomach, because he’s a living organism. A Black man with an empty stomach for extended periods of time, will be compelled to do crime. You can’t afford to do crime. So choose one of the first two. I fear for many of the young Black males at this school because they take the other two like it is a joke. This makes their destiny in prison almost guaranteed. But it does not have to be like that for them, or you.

The bell rang, Marcus smiled and thanked me. He gave me a pound and headed to class. “The three C’s!” he said walking off down the hall.

I hope sharing the three C’s work for Marcus. I hope sharing the three C’s with you helps somebody you care about.

If you are new to learning about HHCF, be sure to check this out

2012-01-30T06:10:00.000-08:00

RADIO INTERVIEW: Martial Arts Weekly on Chess Martial Arts & Life

Outline of events for V-DAY!!

2012-01-30T05:36:00.000-08:00

Every registered player get this FREE HHCF V-Day Competitors Shirt

V-DAY EVENT OUTLINE* As Always V-DAY IS A FREE ALL AGES EVENT

The Alum Rock Youth Center is located at 137 N. White Rd. in San Jose, CA.

10 AM-4 PM [Sal, Bay Area Chess, Pam The Funkstress] Chess Tournament: Doors open at 10:30

12 PM- 1 PM [US Chess Federation Ruth Haring, Boondocks Asheru, SF State Prof. Dawn-Elissa Fischer, MMA Fighter Ralek Gracie] HHCF Panel, Moderated by T-KASH

1 PM [ Gumby, HHCF Jiu Jitsu Team] Kids Jiu Jitsu Workshop

2 PM [Gumby, HHCF Jiu Jitsu Team]Adult Jiu Jitsu Workshop AND Jiu Jitsu Exhibition]

3 PM [Dibiase, DLabrie, Rahman Jamaal, Shamako Noble, Zulu Nation B-boys w/ Special Guest]

4 PM [WE SHUT EM DOWN!!]

*Life happens but this is the plan and we're stickin' to it!!

Here are some videos of past events to give you an idea of what to expect....

HHCF Orisue & Karmaloop Drop Limited Edition V-Day Competitors Shirt!

2012-01-29T10:20:00.000-08:00

My good friends at www.karmaloop.com (the world best urban online clothing store) and www.orisue.com (one of the best urban brands out right now) were kind enough to design HHCF V-day shirts for all competitors for our rated Feb 11th tournament in San Jose. Every competitor will get a FREE shirt like the one above WHILE SUPPLIES LAST. Sooo, I guess its time to sign up for the tournament huh? Do it now: www.hiphopchessfederation.org

Green Castle Block always has good themes on chess

2012-01-29T10:05:00.000-08:00

I enjoy his episodes a lot...I never thought about the importance of checking distance.

Another killer Jrobi tutorial on the English Opening

2012-01-29T09:58:00.000-08:00

He always delivers....enjoy...

Journal of a BJJ Player, you need to learn about it

2012-01-29T09:49:00.001-08:00

This is an amazing video series on jiu jitsu techniques. Do ALL of them at YOUR OWN RISK. Its important to have a certified instructor teach you moves. For those that have qualified teachers, these are good supplements.

DJ QBert LOVES Speed chess. I saw him play Vinay Bhatt a few times. Fun stuff....

2012-01-29T09:46:00.000-08:00

Always remember to brush your teeth kids! And don't blow your speakers out when you play this please...

You still don't know about the connections between Hip-Hop and Martial Arts? Sit down...I'll teach you.

2012-01-28T17:08:00.001-08:00

DJ Rob Swift Made Hip-Hop History Like No Other DJ

2012-01-28T17:06:00.000-08:00

Most people know DJ Rob Swift for his work with Linkin Park and the X-Men aka X Ecutioners. But for me, his album Wargames is an untouchable masterpiece. He put it out shortly after 9/11. It was a statement against the war, and poverty...It was so courageous. It spoke to nonviolence. I think this is TRULY an album Dr. MLK Jr. would have supported and I don't like to make assumptions about dead leaders...

However, this record was immaculately executed from front to back. With a turntable, DJ Rob Swift was able to say things that rappers were unable and mostly too afraid to say. He really captured a lot of the emotional pain and confusion that our nation has been in since 9/11. And, you see the artwork is chess heavy. Its hard to find, but, I encourage you to get it. It has a DVD that comes with it....

UTFO made their video about their DJ !! He killed it in a NINJA outfit

2012-01-28T15:49:00.001-08:00

Chess is jiu jitsu for the mind. Jiu Jitsu is chess for the body.

2012-01-28T15:00:00.000-08:00

Chess is jiu jitsu for the mind. Jiu Jitsu is chess for the body. - Adisa Banjoko

Dr. Alan Kirshner Is Hosting His Annual Birthday Party Chess Tournament! YOU NEED TO BE THERE! I will...

2012-01-18T21:47:00.000-08:00

GOTTA EMAIL FROM DR. K:

I am holding my annual birthday party. The CalNorth Youth Chess Age Level Championships on February 5 (a Sunday). I already have 275 registered. It is in Newark: http://www.CalNorthYouthChess.org/AgeLevel2012. If you know any elementary school kids interested in attending please let them know. If they cannot afford the entry fee then I can give them free entries--simply have them type Adisa in the coupon box!!!

Look, this is going to be an amazing event (as all his chess events are). I have immense respect for Dr. K and he was the first, VERY FIRST person from the local Bay Area chess community to really support me and help guide me toward making HHCF happen. I cannot thank him enough. I look forward to being at his birthday chess tourney and I hope to see you there. If you think you might have any trouble paying for the tournament, hit me up... bishop@hiphopchessfederation.org (I might be able to help you out).

How Hip-Hop Teaches Nonviolence

2012-01-18T21:32:00.000-08:00

PHOTO BY ERIC K. ARNOLD

As the anniversary of the birthday of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. approaches, I cannot help but thank God for my parents. Long before it was a legal holiday, my parents took me out of school on his birthday. My mom and dad were strategic in their rebellion against the American school system.

That was how they honored his life, before the nation had the sense to do the same. We did not BBQ. I did not sleep in on Dr. King’s birthday. I read about Black history, my duty to learn from it and seek better for our people. I was taught to celebrate his life by respecting all life. I never met another kid who had parents that took such an approach to Dr. Kings birthday. I realize now that my parents were nonviolent revolutionaries. Today, with my own children I am working to pick up the torch they gave me in my youth. Hip-Hop music, has helped keep me stay in tune with the mission of Dr. King along the way.

Despite passing long before the seeds of Hip-Hop had began to bloom, rap music itself is an act nonviolence. Many might immediately take offense to this or laugh. However if you look at even some of the most violent rap you can think of, it is still just a song. Any rapper who rhymes about killing, could have picked up a gun. Instead they chose to pick up a pen. I’m not defending the content of murderous rap. What I am saying is that they chose to write an angry poem, instead of using their felling to commit a violent act. That’s choosing nonviolence!

Dr. King spoke directly to the importance of education. In the era of Hip-Hop’s “Golden Age” knowledge was a duty for most rappers. Public Enemy, Rakim, Ice Cube and many others laid a clear foundation for promoting nonviolence in Hip-Hop.

Songs like Ice-T’s The Hunted Child , Ice Cube’s Colorblind illustrated in graphic detail about the consequence of violence on the streets. While embraced as a classics within the Hip-Hop community, mainstream media hardly acknowledge its existence. Even today rappers like Game and Nas will make songs in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and it gets almost no recognition by Black or White media outlets. So, they must be doing it for more than the money? They get zero reward for speaking about peace, and only hit the charts when they sing of murdering their own. We should applaud their courage and accept their sincerity.

In recent years songs like I Know I Can by Nas, Sabac Red’s The Commitment and T-KASH’s Peace To My Enemies motivate feet and minds to live better.

Dr. King took the power of God’s love to the streets. Hip-Hop music comes from the streets. This means that it will not always say things that are fun or easy to digest. But it will always be honest. Songs like Sticky Fingaz Oh My God, Kanye West’s Jesus Walks and Rakim’s Who Is God? are brilliant illustrations of some of the spiritual aspirations circulating within the Hip-Hop community. The RZA from Wu-Tang Clan made an amazing song about love for The Creator called Sunshine on the album 8 Diagrams. Rapper Killer Mike wrote amazing verses about spiritual redemption with God In The Building. Many of these songs may not be in the Top 4o. But they keep the people on the streets motivated to embrace God. I don’t believe Dr. King would want it any other way. Let us remember he died on the way to protect the rights of sanitation workers in Memphis.

While many have taken on Dr. King’s mission of nonviolence, his crusade against poverty has been largely ignored. Poverty knows no color. The empty stomach of a child in Oakland does not hurt any less than the stomach of a child in Chechnya. A Mexican mother without food, worries no less than a White mom in Minnesota. Until I worked at a high school in San Francisco, I had not true understanding of poverty. This opened my eyes to the wisdom of Martin Luther King Jr., almost more than anything else.

I have learned that starving student cannot study. I have seen “underground railroads” of food emerge in response. Many teachers argue against kids attitudes in class. Others see food in the classroom a nuisance. I understand how frustrating it can be for a dedicated teacher to endure it. Kids appear to be disruptive in class, but they can’t hear the math lesson over the rumble in their stomach. I’ve watched kids walk down hallways in shoes with soles that literally are about to peel off the bottom of their foot and be mocked by others. I’ve seen kids walk around in clothes they’ve outgrown due to a growth spurt. So their growth is a silent curse as their parents cannot afford new clothes. I’m not talking only about just Black children. I see this as global burden. Poverty is an oppressive demon and in many cases is the root of why violence happens and why we (humans) excuse it many times. One might be able to argue that the bulk of the violence in Hip-Hop is in direct proportion to the initial state of poverty its performers existed in.

The impact of poverty on the heart and mind can be seen in the music of artists like Apathy’s Check to Check, or Vinnie Paz’s Keep Movin ‘ On . They leave deep impressions about the reality of poverty. In an Occupy Wall St. era, their lyrics sting with searing precision. In his time, Dr. King’s words had the same effect.

I love Jazz, Blues and Rock. I love Gospel and all other forms of Black music from the African diaspora. But nothing has pushed nonviolence as consistently and as bold as rap music. It is a fact we cannot deny. This fact does not undo much of the violence and sexism and celebration of materialism in Hip-Hop. Yet it was Bid Daddy Kane, Biz Markie and Kool G Rap that reminded me to Erase Racism. What the subculture of Hip-Hop has achieved, I will not allow to be denied. I thank Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. for his sacrifice every time I hear a rapper embrace peace. Happy birthday Dr. King. Those love Hip-Hop continue to keep your message alive.

From www.newsone.com

MLK Jr. On War...

2012-01-18T21:27:00.000-08:00

How Martial Arts Teach Nonviolence

2012-01-18T21:10:00.000-08:00

American’s have been fascinated by martial arts since the mid 1970′s to 1980′s. A Chinese man from San Francisco, California name Lee Jun-fan would change the entire planet with his films. We came to know him by the name Bruce Lee.

Movies like The Big Boss, Fist of Fury and Way of the Dragon altered the U.S. film industry and the minds of American people forever. His movies brought a new idea to what it meant to fight, and what it meant to be a fighter. Bruce Lee spoke differently, he talked of the importance of self knowledge, and fearless free expression.

These were not things American folks usually accepted with the idea of combat.
Around the same time, the Shaw Brothers began to make their own films like 36 Chambers of Shaolin, Five Deadly Venoms and One-Armed Swordsmen hypnotized the American masses. They instilled a new the idea of what violence, honor, respect, discipline, humility and human character meant.
This fascination with martial arts culture took an even bigger turn when the TV Show Kung-Fu aired. It was not the best TV show ever made. There were many racist undertones in the show from time to time. However, some of the conversations between the original Master Po and his students.

Additionally, these films and TV shows introduced a new idea of how to practice nonviolence to Americans from all walks of life. These films had an affect music as well. Rap music from artists such as Wu-Tang Clan, Dilated Peoples, Andre Nickatina, Mix Master Mike of the Beastie Boys, One Be Lo and many others have paid much homage to the impact of the movies and the philosophies learned from them.
The work of Bruce Lee, The Shaw Brothers, Jackie Chan, Jet Li and other films of the time helped teach Whites and Blacks alike the power of peace. To seek peace not just outside ourselves, but more importantly the one we all seek inside ourselves.

Unfortunately the biggest mistake we make in the West is to think that someone who loves to study boxing, kung-fu, wrestling or jiu-jitsu loves to fight. We think somewhere internally they enjoy hurting other people.
Now take a look at Buddhist monks. They are known globally as one of the most peaceful people on the planet. But they are also known for having a long tradition of cultivating self defense techniques.It is precisely because they have extensive knowledge of how to break bones and choke people, that they choose not to.
Let me be clear. When someone lashes out at a woman and swings wildly at her, it is proof that they’ve lost emotional control.

That act is completely different from the woman being swung on to tactically evade the fist coming at her. If she decides it is necessary to isolate her attackers arm, and break it so she can be safe- that is nonviolence. She has created no violence in a space where violence was prevalent. Buddhism teaches nonviolence without question. Still Buddhists were taught that to observe injustice going on and do nothing made one worse than “devils.”

Martial arts films are the only movies in existence that consistently show women of clear mind and action fully capable of defending themselves. In America we look at women who can fight as “manly” and unattractive. Martial arts encourage women to learn self defense to cultivate and preserve their beauty and spirit. At the same time, we learn that violence is never to be taken lightly. That seemingly casually aggressive situations can turn deadly fast.

The roots of what motivated the attacker and the response from the woman who was attacked came from two different places. The attack came from rage or a desire for power. The response the woman gave was rooted in self preservation and a desire for peace. Jet Li was recently explaining the meaning of martial arts to CulturePulp :

In Chinese writing, wushu comes from two words: one is “stop” and one is “war.” “Stop-war.” In most action films, people focus on the “war.” Fighting, fighting, fighting. Violence against violence. Nobody talks about the “stop.” [laughs]

Today MMA (mixed martial arts) is taking over the world. The sport proves humanity has evolved to a place where martial artists can test their skills safely and make a great living a it. It is also important to acknowledge that many of the fighters you see in the UFC and Strikeforce almost never get caught up with the law. They are often far too focused on their physical and mental well being to run the streets trying to hurt people for the sake of their ego.

Now we see bullying as a long ignored social epidemic. We see crimes against women and young girls as a global cancer. Our children are also horribly out of shape. Teen obesity and disease from poor health are common among our kids. It is not the parents, educators or politicians who are helping America solve this issue. It is a family of martial artists, named the Gracie’s. Two brothers, Rener and Ryron Gracie, created Bullyproof and Women Empowered for children and adult women in need of realistic ways to protect themselves. Their cousin Kyra Gracie is respected around the world for her accomplishments. Beyond the self defense techniques, the students are taught about the psychology of an attacker so they can used “verbal jiu jitsu” to evade a confrontation altogether.

Today we see many of today blockbuster movies for kids like Kung Fu Panda and Jaden Smith’s Karate Kid introducing young people to the ideas of self discipline, inner peace and learning the power of not fighting. In these ways, the martial arts fused with film and music have helped preserve the legacy of nonviolence laid down in America by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

From www.newsone.com

Our Friend The Weaksquare is BAAACK!!

2012-01-18T21:05:00.001-08:00

HHCF Founder Adisa Banjoko on the COVER of Chess Life Mag!! Drops Feb 1st

2012-01-18T21:00:00.000-08:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Meko Gaborski
(323) 335-4497

Hip-Hop Chess Federation Founder on March Cover of Chess Life
Adisa Banjoko Featured on Cover of the Sports Biggest Print Publication

January 19th 2012- San Jose, CA - The Hip-Hop Chess Federation (HHCF) is proud to announce that it's founder, Adisa Banjoko has been chosen as the cover story for their March 2012 issue. The story will drop Feb 1st 2012. Entitled Chess, Hip-Hop & Life written by Eric K. Arnold it covers a San Francisco tournament ran by the HHCF. It also looks at global impact the organization has made in the world of chess and music with at-risk youth over its five year history. "To be on the cover of Chess Life is an honor beyond words" said Mr. Banjoko. "When we started Hip-Hop Chess, few really understood our vision. Yet those who truly did, stayed vigilant. I am eternally grateful to them for their friendship and loyalty. Over time what many initially saw as unthinkable has unified the hearts and minds of many. I'm quite inspired ."

The HHCF has attracted a lot of attention for its unique approach for helping at-risk youth. By being the worlds first organization to fuse music, chess and martial arts to promote unity, strategy and nonviolence they have caught a global buzz. Some of those news outlets covering them include Good Morning America, New York Times, Rolling Stone, Los Angeles Times, SF Chronicle, KALW, NBC 11, XXL and Vibe Magazine. The organizations founder, Adisa Banjoko aka The Bishop of Hip-Hop was a noted author and lectured on issues regarding Hip-Hop and martial arts before creating the HHCF. "When giving lectures to kids, I have always encouraged them not to just read Black history, but aspire to make Black history" said Mr. Banjoko. "Hopefully this is push them to dig in and create the things they want to see in their own future."

The HHCF will host an event on Feb 11th 2012 in San Jose, CA called V-DAY to commemorate its five year anniversary tournament. Special guests for V-Day include rapper and educator Asheru, known around the world for the Boondocks Theme Song, as well as MMA fighter Ralek Gracie among others. There will be a youth chess tournament, jiu jitsu workshops for adults and kids, panels on Hip-Hop & education and live rap performances. HHCF's V-DAY tournament will be officiated by Dr. Salman Azhar and Bay Area Chess to ensure the highest standards are adhered to in this rated chess competition.

V-Day, like all HHCF events will be FREE to the public and an all ages event. HHCF tournaments are frequented by families from all over the state. The Alum Rock Youth Center is located at 137 N. White Rd. in San Jose, CA. The event is from 11 AM to 4 PM. A full schedule of the days events will be posted shortly at www.hiphopchess.blogspot.com or follow HHCF on twitter @hiphopchess. "On V-Day, the HHCF celebrates the children who love the immortal game of chess and our friends who have supported us for the past 5 years!"

Registration online for the V-Day chess tournament is open now at www.hiphopchessfederation.org

ABOUT HHCF: The HHCF is the worlds first organization to fuse music, chess and martial arts to promote unity, strategy and non-violence. The HHCF currently operate out of the San Francisco Bay Area and Romania (Yunus Ionut). They have hosted events to promote peace that have included RZA and GZA from Wu-Tang Clan, Josh Waitzkin, Ryron Gracie, Rener Gracie, Ralek Gracie, author Marylin Yalom, Immortal Technique, Conscious Daughters, Def Poet Amir Sulaiman, DJ Pam The Funkstress, T-Kash, Daaim Shabazz, Casual, Opio and Tajai of Hieroglyphics, Zion I, Balance, Rakaa Iriscience, DJ QBert and Nancy Cartwright (the voice of Bart Simpson).

ABOUT Bay Area Chess: Bay Area Chess is the most active chess organization West of Texas. Its mission is to provide everyone with enjoyable intellectual activities that develop personal skills. Bay Area Chess Academy offers after-school enrichment programs at over 40 local schools. Bay Area Chess also organizes County, State, and National Championships that attract players at all levels, from beginners to Grandmasters. Bay Area Chess was founded by a serial entrepreneur turned social entreprenuer, Salman Azhar, Ph.D., who has founded many high tech companies. To get involved or learn more, email ask@bayareachess.com.

Registration for V-DAY OPENS IN 24 HRS!!! #CHESS

2012-01-04T19:01:00.000-08:00

Eddie Bravo & Rakaa, Ralek Gracie...rocking the mic and the mat...JIU JITSU!

2012-01-04T18:58:00.000-08:00

When you are sincere, you are lucky to know and connect people like Rakaa, Ralek and Eddie Bravo. Much love. These are great songs...This is the beginning of a NEW GENRE OF MUSIC. Music made by fighters, for fighters. I promise you in less than ten years, somebody will be triple platinum off Fight Music....And when the Grammys get awarded- folks will look back to songs like these! You are listening to the cornerstones of a new theme of music! Remember I said this...Remember.

HHCF Official Announcement of V-DAY! 5 Year Anniversary Jam!

2012-01-03T23:14:00.000-08:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Meko Gaborski
(323) 335-4497

Rapper Asheru from Boondocks & MMA Fighter Ralek Gracie Team with Hip-Hop Chess Federation for Nonviolence
HHCF Celebrates 5 Year Anniversary With Youth Tournament, Jiu Jitsu Exhibition and Live Performances

January 4th 2012- San Jose, CA - The Hip-Hop Chess Federation (HHCF) is proud to announce it will be hosting its 5 year anniversary youth chess tournament February 11th, 2012 at the Alum Rock Youth Center in San Jose, CA. Entitled V-DAY, the event is to honor thier five year anniversary, as well focus on life strategy themes like, Victory. HHCF founder Adisa Banjoko stated "A lot of people have no idea what a gifted, competitive chess community we have in the Bay Area. It's a perfect storm of good organizations, great kids and dedicated coaches, many of whom have been crucial to the HHCF's growth," Banjoko continues "Expect V-Day to be a powerful fusion of chess gaming, jiu jitsu exhibitions and epic panel discussion. Kids, parents, educators and rap fans will be buzzing all over."

In addition to the youth chess tournament, there will be separate jiu jitsu workshops for youth and adults by Heroes Martial Arts instructor Alan "Gumby" Marques. At the conclusion of the workshops there will be two jiu jitsu exhibition matches. Additionally, for the first time ever, an HHCF event will host LIVE PERFORMANCES. The full line up will be announced shortly!

The HHCF has attracted a lot of attention in the press for its outreach to at-risk youth. By being the worlds first organization to fuse music, chess and martial arts to promote unity, strategy and nonviolence they have caught a global buzz. Some of those news outlets include Good Morning America, New York Times, Rolling Stone, Los Angeles Times, SF Chronicle, KALW, XXL and Vibe Magazine.

Special guests for V-Day include rapper Asheru, known around the world for the Boondocks Theme Song as well as MMA fighter Ralek Gracie. Asheru is also founder of Hip Hop Education Literary Program (HELP) in Washington DC and a respected scholar of urban education. "I'm excited to come out and be a part of it" said Asheru. " I love the idea of coming from the East Coast and share ideas with my friends out West. I hope to be able to exchange some concepts and bring some things back to the kids I work with here in DC ."

MMA Fighter Ralek Gracie is the grandson of the founder of Gracie Jiu Jitsu. Outside of his fighting career, Ralek has promoted his families Bullyproof anti-bullying program and just released his solo rap debut album, Ginagi. "I learned about HHCF through my friend and jiu jitsu student Rakaa Iriscience from Dilated Peoples. I had a great time playing chess and exchanging philosophical ideas with Adisa, RZA and Josh Waitzkin. Enriching the youth is very important to my family." Ralek Gracie will host a jiu jitsu seminar at Heroes Martial Arts the night before V-DAY in San Jose. For those interested in attending, contact Heroes Martial Arts at (408) 288 8857.

V-Day, like all HHCF events will be FREE to the public and an all ages event. HHCF tournaments are frequented by families from all over the state. There is a small fee for those interested in participating in the Rated Chess Tournament. The Alum Rock Youth Center is located at 137 N. White Rd. in San Jose, CA. A full schedule of the days events will be posted shortly at www.hiphopchess.blogspot.com or follow HHCF on twitter @hiphopchess. "On V-Day, the HHCF celebrates the children who love the immortal game of chess and our friends who have supported us for the past 5 years!"

Registration online for the V-Day chess tournament opens Jan 6th 2012, 5 PM PST at www.hiphopchessfederation.org

TO ENSURE HIGH STANDARDS WWW.BAYAREACHESS.COM WILL BE OFFICIATING THIS TOURNAMENT

ABOUT HHCF: The HHCF is the worlds first organization to fuse music, chess and martial arts to promote unity, strategy and non-violence. The HHCF currently operate out of the San Francisco Bay Area and Romania ( Yunus Ionut). They have hosted events to promote peace that have included RZA and GZA from Wu-Tang Clan, Josh Waitzkin, Ryron Gracie, Rener Gracie, Ralek Gracie, author Marylin Yalom, Immortal Technique, Conscious Daughters, Def Poet Amir Sulaiman, DJ Pam The Funkstress, T-Kash, Daaim Shabazz, Casual, Opio and Tajai of Hieroglyphics, Zion I, Balance, Rakaa Iriscience, DJ QBert and Nancy Cartwright (the voice of Bart Simpson).

HHCF Announces V-DAY: 5 Year Anniversary Youth Tournament!!

2012-01-02T16:17:00.000-08:00

REGISTRATION OPENS JAN 6TH AT 5 PM AT WWW.HIPHOPCHESSFEDERATION.ORG!!
Designed by: www.weaksquare.blogspot.com

Never Let ANYBODY Call You Other Than Your Name... #LoveYourself

2011-12-23T19:52:00.000-08:00

HHCF Interview With Erik "Weaksquare" Murrah

2011-12-23T19:37:00.000-08:00

I met Erik aka @WeakSquare on Twitter. We became cool and I wanted to share more of his thoughts and his art with you. Check him out. Certainly a man investing a lot of positive energy in the youth.

HHCF: How did you get started in chess?

WeakSquare: My father taught me the moves when I was about 9 or 10. I used to play my chess program on the computer or battle chess at the school library. I always thought the game was beautiful but never really took it seriously until later in life.

HHCF: When did you decide to compete and tell me about some of the things you have learned from competition?

WS: That is actually kind of an interesting story. In 2003 I became addicted to online poker. In 2005 I had destroyed all trust between me and my wife because of my addiction. My wife and I met with our pastor who pointed out to me that my addiction was not with money, it was with competition. He recommended that I focus my competitive energy on something far less destructive.

I started playing chess online and it was exactly what I needed. I never picked gambling back up once I started playing chess. I think that’s why I have picked up chess so quickly, whenever I decide to do something I pour myself into it completely. I have a ferocious tenacity for winning and I think that’s an essential ingredient for becoming a good chess player. I started competing in tournaments in 2007 after I found out my hometown had a chess club. In 2009, I became the South Carolina Amateur Co-Champion by scoring 4 points out of 5 in our state championship chess tournament.

It’s kind of interesting to me that chess, which has given me so much life and energy, was born out of a crisis. I firmly believe that our mistakes never define us as people, how we choose to recover from our mistakes is what makes people great. When I was at the lowest point of my life in 2005, I always kept a positive attitude that I could make things right. I worked harder at restoring my marriage than anything else and it has paid enormous dividends. Next year my wife and I will be celebrating our 10-year anniversary.

I have learned so much from playing chess, mainly because I have lost a lot of games. I have a theory that investing in your losses, whether it’s chess, business, football, or whatever, teaches you the most about your discipline. Losing is not a tragedy, failing to learn the lesson that comes along with the loss is the real tragedy.

So yes, I have learned so much about chess, life, competition, winning, and losing by playing.

HHCF: You have made some really cool videos on chess. I especially like the ones on Capablanca. Do you plan to keep making more?

WS: Hey thanks! I have done numerous videos on YouTube. Actually I started making the videos for my own benefit. I started pouring through the best of Capablanca’s Endgames and found the games so fascinating I thought it would be kind of tragic to review a game, move on and forget it. So I started making the videos so I could review the games at a later time.

I also started making a video series on the Hyper Accelerated Dragon which is my defense versus 1.e4. That series has gotten a very nice response from the folks on YouTube. Honestly I don’t have as much time to do videos as I would like. With kids and studying for games, artwork, my job, and such, the time it takes to create a video is a huge investment. I hope to do more in the future.

HHCF: You were recently featured on TV for some of your outreach with kids. Tell me about that program?

WS: I work in law enforcement. Our county sheriff focuses a lot on community involvement. He challenges all of his employees to be heavily involved in the community. As a response to his challenge, I approached a local elementary school about coaching some at-risk children. They were very receptive so I have about 14 boys that I meet with once a week to teach them the game.

They all love it. I told them on day one that chess is about commanding an army, they ate that up. I also told them about Magnus Carlsen who is the strongest chess player in the world at only 21 years old. When they figured out that they could be better at something than grown-ups they really took a firm interest in learning the art.

HHCF: Your blog is a very fun resource for chess and art. I especially love your wallpapers. How did you get involved in graphic design?

WS: Thanks so much! I’m really proud of my blog. Art has always been a big part of my life, I have always been able to draw really well. When I got into college that was about the time Photoshop started becoming a very popular business tool. I got really good at it and now am Photoshop expert. Being in public relations requires me to write a lot of news stories and also create a lot of promotional materials for community events through the Sheriff’s Department. So the professional skills that I have learned translate perfectly to running a blog about my favorite hobby.

As a side project, I also have a web comic called “The Unexamined Life” which melds philosophy and nerd humor. And make no mistake, I am a nerd. People have a hard time believing I am a nerd on the surface because I played high school basketball and have competed in triathlons. Usually when I tell them I can play chess blindfolded, that removes all doubt to my nerd claim.

HHCF: Whats next for the Weak Square? Wait! How did you come up with that name?

WS: What’s next? Who knows? I love being creative but I got to tell you man, creative people generally have no rudder. We kind of go where the creative winds push us. I had the idea for this web comic and then pushed out three issues within a few weeks, I mean fast.

Honestly where I go from here is kind of whichever idea takes off. People have given me a lot of positive feedback about my blog, my YouTube videos and my artwork so at the moment I’m pursuing all three actively. Oh and of course, I still have competitive chess.

Regarding my moniker, it was really important I come up with something creative and funny, but also self-deprecating. I think poking fun at yourself keeps you honest and humble but it’s also a great form of humor. So, I came up with “Weak Square” which of course is a chess term for a square in your camp that cannot be defended by a pawn. But it’s also a double entendre because “square” is also a slang word for someone who is kind of lame. So by calling myself a “weak square” is clever but poking fun at myself at the same time as kicking out some chess lingo for folks in the know.

HHCF: Any final thoughts?

Yes, I have a real heart for children and I really respect and love your organization for what you guys are doing. This may sound cliche’ but children are the future of humanity. We have to invest in them if we are to overcome things like racism, sexism, class warfare, etc. All of the things I do is with the hope of inspiring imagination in someone. That being said, all of the energy and effort I put into my hobbies come a distant second to the important things in life like my relationship with Jesus Christ and my wife and children.

I am an extremely busy person, so making quality time for children and family is something that is easy to let slide, but it really is the most important thing that I can do. So instead of letting chess stand in the way of my family I include them. I bought my little girl a pink chess set and we just set up the pieces and knock them down and she thinks it’s the greatest thing in the world because it’s spending fun time with daddy.

So I wanted to say all this stuff I do is a drop in the bucket to being a good husband and father.

Thanks!

http://weaksquare.blogspot.com

http://notworthliving.blogspot.com (My web comic)

http://www.twitter.com/weaksquare

If You Have Never Learned About Jiu Jitsu, Take A Few Minutes. It Might Save Your Life

2011-12-23T19:31:00.000-08:00

This is my instructor, Alan "Gumby" Marques....Enjoy...

UFC Champ BJ Penn on Dr. Peter Goldman

2011-12-23T19:27:00.001-08:00

A Man With One Hand, Takes Over The Globe

2011-12-23T19:24:00.000-08:00

Jrobi never fails to impress

2011-12-17T08:59:00.000-08:00

Weaksquare gives great insights here...love the game, live the game!

2011-12-17T08:56:00.000-08:00

visit www.weaksquare.blogspot.com

Take your mind and your body seriously

2011-12-17T08:53:00.000-08:00

Much love to my dead homies. To my young homies. Wake up.

2011-12-14T05:53:00.000-08:00

Dr. Peter Goldman, HHCF Founder Adisa Banjoko and UFC's BJ Penn

2011-12-11T22:37:00.000-08:00

I met BJ Penn a long time ago. We were both new at Ralph Gracies. What I remember the most about him was his flexibility, his unmatched dedication to Jiu Jitsu and his courage. Deep courage. You all see it in the cage now, but, to see it then....Was almost even more amazing. He lived a few blocks away from me. After a while his older brother JD Penn would invite me to go to Alex Oxendines place....It was Alex's garage in San Jose...It was dubbed "Legends" and if you were in that garage you worked hard...Fast forward to 2011 and the world knows his name and he is an inspiration to people around the world. I saw BJ Penn for the first time in a long time....Thanks to Dr. Peter Goldman (he reconnected us). It was great to see him and Hoyt and Danny "Donothing" at Skyline College. The Head Coach of Skyline Wrestling team held a private grappling session. I got notice late and I walked in the cold on an empty stomach to roll. It was great. Nothing in the world like reconnecting with old friends. If you have never read his book Why I Fight, I suggest you get it for yourself, then give it to someone you love. -Adisa Banjoko

The first time I heard this song in 1993...I cried. Today it still hits me hard...

2011-12-11T10:53:00.000-08:00

I dedicate this to all my kids. I hear you...I'm with you.

Sherlock Holmes 2 is THICK with chess elements...I encourage you all to go see it. I plan to.

2011-12-06T17:06:00.000-08:00

Rickson Gracie on the power of jiu jitsu in overcoming fear

2011-12-05T16:44:00.000-08:00

“Where there’s discomfort, there’s fear,” he said. “In these very tough positions, you’re in a little piece of hell. And through this daily suffering, you learn to survive in these situations. You have to find comfort in the uncomfortable situations. You have to be able to live your worst nightmare. Jiu-Jitsu puts you completely in the moment where you must have complete focus on finding a solution to the problem. This trains the mind to build that focus, to increase your awareness, your capacity to solve problems. Sometimes, you don’t have to win. You cannot win. But that has nothing to do with losing.” - Master Rickson Gracie

HHCF Presents: Pawn Storm Invitational Dec. 10th 2011 At John O'Connell In SF!

2011-11-28T19:01:00.000-08:00

This is a tournament for kids inside the SF School District who register with us. The Pawn Storm Invitational is a team tournament for kids competing for the first time. Our goal is to promote unity in the SF community. If you have any questions email me directly at bishop@hiphopchessfederation.org for more details.

You better get to know Weak Square!

2011-11-27T11:14:00.000-08:00

Please be sure to check out www.weaksquare.blogspot.com !! Not only does he work with at-risk kids to learn chess, he's a truly gifted artist. Follow him on twitter to @weakSquare. He claims he is a novice but, based on the posts he puts up, dude, got a lotta knowledge!! Check him out though. He's a cool guy to know about in the chess world.

Jrobi keeps it real

2011-11-27T11:05:00.000-08:00

My mom went to go see the play on Fela Kuti! Thought I'd share Stalemate...

2011-11-27T11:02:00.000-08:00

I dedicate this song to my cousin Ben, may he rest in peace. He died at 19...so young. But before he died, while we sat in a car front of my home during the Holiday season we talked about Nigeria. He had just returned from Lagos. Him and his brother started talking about Fela Kuti. They both see I'm lost in the conversation. He asked me if I heard of Fela? I said I had not. He said, "If you like Bob Marley, you will LOVE Fela". Ben was right. He died four months later. I did not hear Fela until after he passed. I never hear a note from Fela and forget my cousin. That was ten years ago. I miss you Ben...I love you.

The Iron Hook Scroll Vol. 1 is COMPLETE! (and its free!)

2011-11-27T10:54:00.000-08:00

I'm happy to announce The Iron Hook Scroll Vol. 1 is out. Its done. Its FREE at www.ironhookEbook.blogspot.com. A few weeks after you get the scroll the Jiu Jitsu Innovations Newsletter will drop. I hope you enjoy it and I hope you stay safe and blessed out there. Much thanks to all who have supported me.

This Story in the NY Times Really Warmed My Heart

2011-11-14T21:22:00.000-08:00

New African American Masters in Chess

Once again Dylan McClain is a great writer. He told their story well.As everybody knows, HHCF does not groom kids for competitive chess. But to see those that do rise, is lovely.

This article inspired some of the kids at my school today. A lot of teachers were talking about it to.

Gratitude

2011-11-03T21:32:00.000-07:00

For the last few weeks I've been haunted by a cloud (that I might have cancer). I had to get some tests over the last few days. Today I was informed that I am cancer FREE. But, I will need to get some other, very minor procedures done (compared to having cancer) in the near future. I just wanna say that I have gained some serious clarity on who I am, what I love and who I care about....Also, more importantly, what I have not done and need to accomplish. Much love to my real folks out there.

I worry about my kids...

2011-10-31T18:58:00.000-07:00

A group of kids I'm trying to reach got busted for a petty robbery...Another one I'm trying to reach got shot...He's alive...But I have not talked to him since he got shot...He just barely made it. What I do is not easy...Chessboards and rap ain't always the solution...But to the degree that it is, I will stay on the block wherever I am needed. I wanna see you all make it...

Jrobi's Alekhine Defense Tutorial

2011-10-30T10:09:00.000-07:00

Professor Griff: Political Rap and Chess

2011-10-30T10:06:00.000-07:00

Another example of political rap and chess from the late 80's and early 90's is with rapper Professor Griff. He started out as the head of the security team for Public Enemy. After things got hectic between him and Chuck D, Griff dropped some records of his own. Many years later they reunited. His record Pawns in the Game was one of the most consistent in showing how rappers used chess as a metaphor to explain the importance of planning and strategy in ones life.

Boondocks Theme Song...Easily one of the best SHORT raps ever...

2011-10-29T17:26:00.000-07:00

OK so here is the deal. I love this comic strip. LOVE IT!! But when it first came out as a cartoon, I was quite apprehensive. Only now, like, within the last year have I sat down to watch it. First of all, if you are not at least 17, you probably won't understand it's value. If you are under 17, you really should not watch it at all. The comic is best, because its easier to digest...

But I digress...(hey that rhymed)

The thing is, no matter if I love the episode, or hate it, the theme song is so inspirational. I was lucky enough to meet Asheru, the guy who made the theme song several years ago through my man Rakaa Iriscience from Dilated Peoples. I had to share it with you...

John O'Connell Kids Talk About Chess & Life (kids I work with)

2011-10-23T20:04:00.000-07:00

I love Green Castle Block!! Check this out

2011-10-22T18:10:00.001-07:00

Unprotected Pieces by GZA & DJ Muggs

2011-10-22T17:59:00.001-07:00

The Mortimer Trap against Ruy Lopez: What to Do When White Gets Greedy

2011-10-22T17:52:00.000-07:00

So many kids I work with think they want this life...They have no idea whats waiting for them...

2011-10-22T17:50:00.000-07:00

Great vid on the Kings Indian by Green Castle Block

2011-10-15T21:31:00.000-07:00

HHCF Founder Adisa Banjoko Featured on Martial Arts Weekly Radio Show!

2011-10-15T21:25:00.000-07:00

Photo by Christine Nguyen

I was recently interviewed on Blogtalk Radio by Sensei Duval Hamilton. It was a very fun talk and I really wanted to share it with you. We talked a lot about some of the deeper history of how the HHCF was formed. I hope you like it.

LISTEN NOW!:
HHCF Founder Adisa Banjoko featured on Martial Arts Weekly

Adisa Banjoko Announces New Book: Iron Hook Scroll Vol. 1

2011-10-12T19:11:00.000-07:00

Thanksgiving 2011, Adisa Banjoko will release a new book Iron Hook Scroll Vol. 1. The innovator of the Iron Hook grip will illustrate exact steps to strengthen your jiu jitsu game from the bottom. Using the Iron Hook will help you wearing the gi, or no-gi. It will make your chances of taking damage on the street less and your options to reverse and finish much higher. Learn how to break your opponents posture, keep them off center and transition directly into sweeps, chokes and armlocks easily. If you have never seen the Iron Hook, check out the videos below. More info will be available soon. Much respect and thanks to Billy Ray for the cover art. This is gonna be the best Thanksgiving EVER Charlie Brown!!

HHCF Jiu Jitsu Teams Ed Solis on Takedowns!!

2011-10-09T11:02:00.000-07:00

Lost Footage from HHCF Queens Panel in 2009!!

2011-10-08T22:32:00.000-07:00

I wanted to put music to it. But it was more important to me that you truly hear whats being said

HHCF Jiu Jitsu Team's Patrick Ryan Amazes at Jiu Jitsu Nationals!

2011-10-07T22:47:00.000-07:00

We're proud to say that HHCF Jiu Jitsu Teams Ed Solis, Sergio Silva and Patrick Ryan all did great at the BJJ Nationals. I don't have all their footage, but here is some awesome clips of Patrick. Notice his constant calm, his continuous hunt for a better position and submission (not to mention is compassion for his opponents after the win!) ...More vids from HHCF Jiu Jitsu Team coming soon!! I swear, I remember first telling Pat how much he'd love Jiu Jitsu. Now he's a national champ!! Hats off to his coaches Rodrigo and Tim from Gracie Barra!!

I can't live without my radio

2011-10-07T22:35:00.000-07:00

Check out this NEW news feature on the radio about HHCF. Please share it with your friends:

HHCF Feature on KALW (learn about more of our students)

One of the Bay Areas Fav's is Back! Weibel Chess Quads

2011-10-04T22:06:00.000-07:00

EDITORS NOTE: When the HHCF was started, Dr. Alan Kirshner was THE FIRST PERSON from the mainstream chess community to support us. I did not understand at first exactly who he was and how deep his dedication to chess ran. If they made Mt. Rushmore for Bay Area chess leaders- he'd be one of them! I'm always excited to share when he's puttin' on an event. If you love chess you need to be at this.

The Weibel Chess Fall Quads - Grand Prix (sponsored by SCS) have been a tradition in the Bay Area for 15 years. While the numbers attending have dropped below 250 in the last few years due to the enormous increase of youth tournaments in the Bay Area, the Weibel Quads continue to pull large enough numbers (around 150) that enable me to place individuals against three other players of their own skill level. I also avoid, as best I can, placing siblings and teammates from schools or clubs together. So, if you haven't registered yet, join the chess happening in Fremont starting on Saturday, October 15 and continuing on November 19 and December 10. You can play in one or two or all three tournaments. An application has been attached for your use, or you can register online at https://calnorthyouth.powweb.com/Applications/FallQuads11-GP/CCEntries.html Yes, this is a secure site. Full information can be found at: http://www.calnorthyouthchess.org/Applications/FallQuads11-GP/

Description of chess quads:
Four players of equal or near equal skill, let's say four new players to chess in the same grade, play each other at a table. This means three games. The winner obtains a trophy. If there is a tie between two players or more for first place, all get a trophy. For those children who do not get a trophy they will walk away with a very classy chess medal-at least I think it is.

Grand Prix:
Those individuals who want to compete in all three events will have the opportunity of winning far larger trophies. More information is available online.
If you have any further questions, please do send me an e-mail at:alan@CalNorthYouthChess.org. If you desire to be removed from my mailing list send an e-mail to info@CalNorthYouthChess.org and write remove in the subject line.

CHESS IS FOREVER,
Alan
Alan M. Kirshner, Ph.D.
Director of Weibel Chess
http://www.WeibelChess.org
*******************
"Do your own thinking independently. Be the chess player, not the chess piece."
Ralph Charell

HHCF's Dyhemia Young Feature on KALW by Jen Chien

2011-09-21T19:55:00.000-07:00

"Mama Bev", Dyhemia Young, Vanessa Varko and Mrs. Lightfoot (Dot's O.C. original family! We were here before the hype and we'll be here after!)
Photo by: Adisa Banjoko, HHCF Founder
KALW News Radio Update on HHCF and Dyhemia Young

Interview with Abdul Shakoor of Urban Kings & Queens!

2011-09-05T09:27:00.001-07:00

Pressure Makes Diamonds
By, HHCF Founder Adisa Banjoko

When HHCF player Dyhemia Young was in TX to play for her chess scholarship, she was lucky enough to find true friends in a young girl named Diamond and her father Abdul Shakoor. He helped to coach her technically and emotionally through the tournament. He and I have talked a lot since then and I wanted to share a recent interview I did with him about chess, life, fatherhood, positivity and power of always pursuing your goals. He also runs an organization called Urban Kings & Queens. They do good things for the community. Check out our conversation below.

HHCF: When did you start playing chess and who taught you?

I started playing Chess when I was 25 years old in Atlanta while working with the 1996 Olympics and the music and entertainment industry as CEO of Tillery Enterprises (promotions and marketing). I am from Brooklyn, New York and I was reared in Kent, Ohio in foster care from 12 yrs old until 18yrs old. I am self taught and learning more everyday!

HHCF: What were some of the things chess taught you about life?

Chess has taught me that for every decision and choice; there are consequences so choose wisely. The game of Chess has taught me to relax, relate, and release the problems and situtations that may occur frequently or in everyday life. Life is what you make it ! And you always have a chance to win! Never give up and stay calm.

HHCF: When did you start teaching your daughter chess and why was it important for you to do that?

I have taught Chess to over 500 students across that USA. I am a single father with a beautiful and humble 10 yr. old daughter; Diamond Shakoor. I started teaching my daughter how to play the game of chess at 7 years old. She was interested in playing and I told her to do good in school and you can play chess. Chess has been a true blessing for our family. It has brought my daughter and I closer together; and it opened the door for better communication between us, about life issues. We travel around the country and she gets to establish healthly long lasting friendships and contacts. Chess helps young people to battle "Emotional Displacement"; don't get mad get focused! Because a mad person can not think critically in tough situations.

HHCF: What would you say learning chess has done for her?

Learning chess has improved Diamond's confidence and presentation skills and it is preparing her for life and real world issues! She loves being herself and the hard work, sweat, and tears; are now tears of joy! It has been a process and not always easy! Every parent should introduce their child or children to the game of chess!

HHCF: Tell me about your time mentoring Dyhemia Young in TX at the Susan Polgar tournament and what were your impressions of Dyhemia on and off the board?

I enjoyed the opportunity to meet Dyhemia Young in Lubbock, TX at the 2011 Susan Polgar Girls Chess Invitational. When I first met Dyhemia she was listening to her music (tuning out this new chess world of course) and then I saw her in the cafeteria and asked her how to pronounce her name; because I did not want to start off by not knowing how to correctly say her name; and afterwards I introduced her to my daughter Diamond! Which was the goal in the first place was to hopefully have Dyhemia, Diamond and Vanita to meet and network; since they were the only 3 African American Females competing in a field of 46 Players. Dyhemia and Vanita were wonderful role models to my daughter-Thank You! It is hard for a man to teach his daughter everything about being a young lady; so sometimes you have to fall back and play your position. On the chess board Dyhemia has great potential if given the proper training (quality time )and tournament opportunities with her busy schedule of being a teenager.

HHCF: After the tournament, have you been in contact with her?

After the tournanment I have spoken to Dyhemia a few times and frequently by text to tell her to stay focused and keeping enjoying every moment of every day! I speak to her about life issues; the chess knowledge will come. She is playing chess everyday; when she strives to do better today than yesterday!

HHCF: Since the TX tournament whats next for you?

Next for The Shakoor Famiily (Diamond and Dad) is to enjoy the school year and attempt to secure corporate or individual sponsorship for Diamond Shakoor to attend Chess tournaments around the country and internationally. She is the chess worlds version of "Venus and Serena Williams".

HHCF: Will Diamond be competing soon?

Diamond's next major tournament is the Girls World Open in Chicago! October 7-10, 2011. And K-12 Nationals in Dallas, TX in November.

HHCF: What is your training method like for Diamond? How often do you practice with her? Are there any books or computer programs you might recommend?

My training methods for Diamond are simple; rest, good foods, practice problems and tactics, playing in a lot of tournaments!, taking notes from other parents and changing the formula to what works best for Diamond! She plays a lot of adults! And I tell her "You play the board not the opponent!" Diamond practices a little every day at least 30 minutes or she takes on all comers after beating up on Dad! Computers and programs are wonderful aids if you can afford them; otherwise hard work still pays off!

HHCF: Tell me about Urban Kings and Queens? What is your core philosophy?

Urban Kings and Queens Chess Academy - "Although you are in an Urban environment or regardless of your environment always know that you are all Kings and Queens and conduct yourself as such at all times!" The Academy is my pathway to help the youth with life skills and share some of the blessings with other young people to make it through life with the proper tools to succeed!!!

HHCF: Any last thoughts?

Enjoying Life, glad to have finally met HHCF! Looking forward to seeing all youth reach their goals and achieve their dreams!

If you'd like to support or contact Diamond Shakoor or Urban Chess contact:
Diamond Shakoor Chess Fund
3081 E. 11th Ave
Columbus, Ohio 43219
614 309-5021 email: urban.kings@yahoo.com

HHCF Founder Adisa Banjoko in Timberland Boot Campaign

2011-08-23T18:46:00.000-07:00

We still can't believe it either. Check out the rest of shots in the series on the Complex Magazine site: http://www.complex.com/sneakers/2011/08/gallery-the-25-best-images-from-timberlands-mos-campaign#21

Jupiter Jiu Jitsu/HHCF Jiu Jitsu Teams Patrick Ryan win via Triangle Armbar!

2011-08-22T20:17:00.000-07:00

Gotta love the gentle art! Congrats to Patrick. Great man of great character.

Chuck D from Public Enemy and Adisa Banjoko Hit The 64 Squares!

2011-08-21T09:32:00.000-07:00

In the late 80's there was a huge African-American play called The Meeting. It was about a mythical secret meeting between Malcolm X and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. At one point in the play, they play two games of chess. This sit down, was like that meeting. For the record, I met Chuck D the summer- 89 was the number. Sound of the funky drummer was all over the streets. The other night, I took my son to his first rap show. It had to be Public Enemy. My son met Chuck D after the show. Chuck shouted me out from the stage telling the crowd he knew when he came to The Bay Area, he was with family. It was touching. The day after, we talked business and sat at the boards for a bit before he was off to LA. Much respect to Chuck. I want to thank him for opening my eyes and my spirit to the positive impact Hip-Hop could have on the planet.

If all you wanna do is keep the whole world back- YOU'RE the ones thats wack!

2011-08-15T20:30:00.001-07:00

Jiu Jitsu is NOT the only fighting art that can be applied to chess. LISTEN to Bernard Hopkins

2011-08-13T14:28:00.000-07:00

HHCF Working its Way to LA...

2011-08-12T20:32:00.000-07:00

HHCF founder Adisa Banjoko, along with the HHCF Communications Director were recenlty in LA focused on west coast expansion. While down there, their friend Nancy Cartwright (the voice of Bart Simpson) invited them out for dinner. After dinner they bumped into none other than John Travolta and his lovely wife Kelley Preston. HHCF will be announcing the opening of its LA headquarters soon! For more info email bishop@hiphopchessfederation.org !!

HHCF Student Profile: Raheem Payton, Graduate John O’Connell High School 2011

2011-08-09T16:30:00.000-07:00

When Raheem Payton first met HHCF founder Adisa Banjoko, he weighed more than 265 lbs. After telling Adisa that he wanted to be in MMA and Jiu Jitsu, Adisa gave him a diet plan and a workout regimen. In less than a year Raheem returned to school at 190 lbs and Adisa became his jiu jitsu instructor on the condition that Raheem choose non-violence as a way of life. Raheem kept his word . Beyond that, Adisa made sure that Raheem kept school in focus above all else. Here is an interview on one of the HHCF ‘s shining stars.

HHCF: When did you first learn about Hip-Hop Chess Federation?

Raheem Payton : I first learned about HHCF in 2008 while attending John O’Connell H.S.

HHCF: What kind of things did Adisa Banjoko do to help you learn more about chess, martial arts, or life?

RP: Adisa has helped me with all three. The chess aspect, I was taught the basic movements and how to think before I act. With martial arts I gained a great deal of discipline and self-control along with physical health benefits. In life Adisa has been not just a great mentor but a great friend. He has helped me learn to take steps in life which is making me become a better person.

HHCF: Are there any particular stories you remember from your time working with him or watching him work with other students?

RP : There’s really too many to count. It seemed like every day I was coming to Adisa for advice on how to deal with my life issues. But one in particular I really remember was when I would be going through rough patches with my parents he would share his stories about how he dealt with similar situations and reassured me that everything would work itself out in time and to be completely honest it did.

HHCF: What do you think you will remember most about working with HHCF?

RP : What I really enjoy is the reality that comes with HHCF. Everything that people read about is real people and everyday struggles in life with positive ways to cope.

HHCF: How important was it to Adisa that you graduated?

RP: I can really answer that question with one word dedication. If I had to think of anyone who was going to get on me about graduation it would be Adisa. He was always the person who made sure I was going to be successful.

HHCF: If a kid asked you why they should word with Adisa Banjoko and the Hip-Hop Chess Federation what would you tell them?

RP: Adisa has so much knowledge to share and I believe not only children can learn from him I know many adults that need to be where he is as a leader. He doesn’t sugar coat anything, you can really hear the truth in his words.

HHCF: Any last words?

RP: Adisa Banjoko is not only a close friend of mine he’s a father figure to me. I learn from him and I know a lot of people feel the same way. I was very lucky to come across someone that has pushed me time and time again to always push for my dreams.

If you would like the HHCF to mentor a young person you know email bishop@hiphopchessfederation.org

Life Strategies Summer Series # 4: Find The Roots of Your Anger and Yank it Up

2011-08-09T09:04:00.000-07:00

Of all the emotions on earth, the one most humans seem to most freely express is anger. This is a very dangerous emotion. Mostly, because it leads to the bulk of violence around the planet. When I say violence I don't mean just military conflicts. I mean brothers hitting sisters. I mean sisters hitting sisters (and bothers). I mean parents punching and slapping children. I mean kids pulling out guns on the playground. Its all a branch expression of anger. One second of unfocused anger has landed millions of people untold years in prison and even more in execution chambers. Don't let the next person you know be YOU!

But what are the root of anger?

For some, its fear. If people are bullied long enough, and endure in silence they can lash out violently with zero notice. Most people say that person went "over the edge". But the truth is, that long periods of humiliation almost always result in an angry outburst at some point. Some fear those of different racial, religious groups or genders. They attack those people falsely believing that they are really doing some good. Its never good.

Yet anger can be displayed with a level of dignity (meaning the person defends themselves from the bully by getting an adult or discovers their self worth and defends themselves). Or, it can become a twisted mass of pain an evolve into things like Columbine.

For most, anger is usually something thats wrong inside them. It comes some say, from a sense of entitlement. They believe that they have a "right" over this friendship, this boyfriend, girlfriend, husband, wife, child, etc. that justifies the reason they slap, choke, or slam someone.You never have that right. Unless you are truly defending yourself (or your family) and there is no other way out, there is pretty much no reason to be violent toward another human being. May times we try to play things up to make them seem more dangerous than they are so we can justify it. We put fake moral frames around it to make it seem like we are a hero. But we're not. Its just another cowardly act, clothed in another lie.

My son and I were talking about a book on leadership he's reading. He quoted a line from the book "They leave the root but try to set up the branches." If you try to set up hollow branches of fake smiles and laughs around an angry root, its bound to show up eventually.

Find the roots of your anger and face them down. If that means verbally confronting a bully- then do it. But don't allow yourself to become a bully in the process. If you find a bully staring you back in the mirror, take a moment to really think about why you do what you do. Find its root and yank it up.

The only good anger that I have found, is anger over things that affect common justice. If you see someone being bullied, it should anger you and you should do something to stop it. Tell an adult or tell the person doing the bullying that its wrong.

If you see an animal being abused, an elderly person being neglected it should make you mad. You should do something about it. Take action! But action does not have to mean being violent. Anger is normal. But how you express it, is totally up to you. Learn to uproot your anger so you can let it empower you, not destroy you.

What was Adisa Banjoko doing before HHCF? He was working in prisons to free minds...What were YOU doing?

2011-08-08T13:05:00.000-07:00

It's 10 a.m. on the last Saturday in February and local activist Adisa Banjoko is on one hell of a book tour. Inspired by renowned area rap vets hawking their albums out of car trunks, Banjoko sells his Lyrical Swords series — a collection of essays, interviews, and political ideas related to hip-hop, martial arts, and even chess — mostly hand-to-hand on the streets. For the release of his latest effort, Lyrical Swords Volume II: Westside Rebellion, though, he's forgoing the pavement to visit a place few big-name authors tend to tread — the California prison system. After speaking with Muslim inmates in Vacaville earlier in the month, today the San Jose resident is working the exercise yard at San Quentin. His goal: to educate the public about the importance of black and Latino unity, an issue especially important in light of tumultuous race tensions behind bars in this state.

THE FULL STORY : http://www.sfweekly.com/2006-03-29/music/black-steel-in-the-hour-of-chaos/

Check out the Columbia Open!!

2011-08-08T12:22:00.000-07:00

www.columbiaopen.com

Much thanks to @weaksquare on Twitter for telling me about it!!

GM Ftacnik is playing in it. I wish I could be there.

HHCF Teamed with Ben & Jerry's Last Summer...Man that was fun!

2011-08-08T08:47:00.000-07:00

Nobody keeps it REAL like the Hip-Hop Chess Federation

2011-08-02T10:03:00.001-07:00

HHCF: Chess, Race, Class & the Urban Mind by lyricalswords
Thats why nobody has the impact we have on the minds of today's youth. Only the founder of the HHCF, Adisa Banjoko, has mastered the balance that connects music, chess and martial arts and illustrate how they correspond directly to unity, strategy and non-violence.

The most touching quote from all the events on Dyhemia

2011-08-01T08:35:00.000-07:00

Anonymous Post on News Post online:

As someone who volunteers for the Hip-Hop Chess Federation, I can say there are no words that can describe the sacrifices Adisa Banjoko has made to keep this organization running so that students like Dyhemia could realize their true potential.

I met Dyhemia here freshman year, I remember Adisa saying, this girl, I am getting this girl to college. I am in tears over Dyhemia's success, I am so proud to be a part of this organization. I am proud of Adisa for believing that every kid has the right to success and for Dyhemia in trusting Adisa and believe in the goal we all envisioned for her. -Chessqueen

****
Truth is, I said that so much, about so many girls at the school, I really don't know who posted it. But it means a lot. It means a lot...Thanks.

If anybody wants to contact Hip-Hop Chess Federation directly, email: Meko Gaborski, Meko@hiphopchessfederation.org or call 323 335 4497.

Dang it feels good to see people up on it!

2011-07-30T19:39:00.001-07:00

Ah yessss, it goes down like this a lot kids...a lot.

You can lie about history, but history NEVER LIES...

2011-07-30T18:57:00.000-07:00

Lets take a look back from the root to the fruit of HHCF Founder

LINK: The results of the very first HHCF Event! DJ Qbert, Casual from Hiero and DJ Kevvy Kev in the Building!

LINK: When RZA came with Josh Waitzkin to kill the game

Lost footage from Dyhemias first HHCF Tournament as a 9th grader at John O'Connell High

2011-07-29T20:31:00.000-07:00

Listen to her spirit at the end of the clip and you will see what Adisa Banjoko saw in her then and now. Much love to 9 Queens Jean Hoffman for her help at this one. The All Queens Panel was moderated by the backbone of the HHCF, Adisa's wife Meko Gaborski!

Life Strategies Summer Series #3: Live Your Words

2011-07-29T18:55:00.000-07:00

This morning I got up to brush my teeth and my two year old daughter followed me into the bathroom. She really tries to do everything I do. I got my toothbrush and started brushing. Without even telling her a word she said “I wanna brush daddy”.

I smiled at her, put on her Dora toothpaste and she began to brush her teeth. She walked over to her mother and said “I’m brushing my teeth!” with a giant smile on her face.

It hit me as she returned to the bathroom that if I had not brushed my teeth- my daughter would have never been motivated to do it on her own. I lead by example, so she followed.

Its the same thing with friends or co-workers. If the President of the company stays late, even the janitor will be inspired to stay late. If the President cuts out early and is quick to leave random things to be done by others, so will the janitor.

My wife and I used to coach soccer. Every year we had a great team. But our first year, I made it a point to do the warm-ups with the kids. Every drill, every lap, every push-up, every crunch every shot- I did first. I never asked them to do something I myself could not do.

A lot of other coaches would sit on the sidelines with their fat belly hanging over their sweats demanding perfection they themselves could not deliver. It showed when game time arrived.

When I share a move in jiu-jitsu, I only show moves I know I can do. If I show a move that does not work for me, I tell the student “Some people do this move all the time, but it has never worked for me. It may work for you, so I want you to see it and try it.”

You can’t just talk about leading, BE in the front of the pack!

In chess its the same thing. I don’t tell people to do stuff from positions I’m not familiar with or simply not good at. Don’t be afraid to say what you don’t know. It’s actually a hallmark of leadership- not a weakness.

I tell people to live healthy, but man, I love sugar. I always try to eat good. But, sometimes I slip up and go heavy on the cookies. Slipping is human. But more than anything, work to be the most consistent person you can be when it comes to strengthening your mind, your body and your spirit. If you don’t lead from the front, nobody else will…

If the troops do not SEE the General brush his teeth, they may all end up with rotten mouths.

HHCF's Dyhemia Young Wins 40K Scholarship in TX!

2011-07-29T14:21:00.000-07:00

So many people to thank. We will make sure you all get your due. Taking in a lot right now. Dyhemia girl, get your shine on....Shine ON!

HHCF's Dyhemia won her first game!

2011-07-28T16:53:00.000-07:00

Thanks to the coaching of Abdul Shakoor, Dyhemia came back strong today and won her first match. This photos was snapped a moment before her opponent resigned. She was elated.

HHCF's Dyhemia in Texas

2011-07-26T21:24:00.000-07:00

Posted by HHCF Volunteer

When I arrived at Texas Tech today I got to watch Dyhemia Young interacting with her host of new friends. While there are definitely more experienced players here, Dyhemia is lighting this place up with her personality and determination.

While some girls are taking the psych-out approach, posturing about winning Dyhemia looks at them and in a sharp tone answers back, well I know how I
'm gonna do!" A girl answers back expecting a fight and Dyhemia looks straight at her and said, "I'm gonna LOSE!"

A gasp went around the room as all the girls fell silent.

"That's right, L-O-S-E. Because I'd rather expect the worst and get the best and be surprised by what I can do."

The room held its breath waiting to see what would happen next, but the other girl smiled, shrugged and said, "Good point."

Mind game over and back to the 64.

FOX News will be here to cover the start of the tournament. Stay tuned for updates from this site.

HHCF Announces Live The Game Life Strategy/Anti-bullying Classes in SF Bay Area

2011-07-26T07:27:00.000-07:00

Hip-Hop Chess Federation Announces Live the Game

After School Mentoring and Anti-Bullying Classes

HHCF Teaches Anti-bullying Classes and Life Strategies with Chess and Hip-Hop

June 25th 2011, Fremont, CA- The Hip-Hop Chess Federation (HHCF) is proud to announce its Founder and Directors will be hosting Live the Game classes. The six week course will focus on teaching youth the connections between chess, life strategies and staying focused on their personal goals and dealing with various aspects of bullying. They will also be given an outline of self defense Bullyproof basics.

“The culture of bullying in America has spun out of control and Live the Game is our response” stated Adisa Banjoko, founder of the HHCF. “Kids from K-12 will first be given a foundation to believe in their ability to make sound decisions through chess. By fusing chess strategies with the best examples of positive rap lyrics in Slick Ricks “A Children’s Story” or Nas “I Know I Can” we will talk about the importance of self discipline, non-violence and a serious work ethic. Each class will conclude observing various verbal and physical cues that are associated with bullying and options on how to de-escalate the situation and stay safe.”

Live the Game classes will begin August 9th 2011 in conjunction with RAW Talents Group at 37428 Centralmont Place in Fremont, CA. The six week course will meet every Tuesday from 6:30 PM to 7:30 PM. Each enrolled kid will be given a copy of chess icon Josh Waitzkin’s The Art of Learning to study. The final class will have a graduation ceremony where each student will get a certificate of completion.

Fore more information on Live the Game Program follow HHCF on twitter @hiphopchess or register a kid you love today online at www .rawtalents .org

ABOUT HHCF: The HHCF is the worlds first organization to fuse music, chess and martial arts to promote unity, strategy and non-violence. The HHCF currently operate out of the San Francisco Bay Area and Romania ( Yunus Ionut). They have hosted events that have included RZA and GZA from Wu-Tang Clan, Josh Waitzkin, Ryron Gracie, Rener Gracie, Ralek Gracie, author Marylin Yalom, Immortal Technique, Conscious Daughters, Def Poet Amir Sulaiman, DJ Pam The Funkstress, T-Kash, Daaim Shabazz, Casual, Opio and Tajai of Hieroglyphics, Zion I, Balance, Rakaa Iriscience, DJ QBert and Nancy Cartwright (the voice of Bart Simpson).

Straight-up Miracle: Jada Pinkett Smith comes through for HHCF's Dyhemia

2011-07-24T19:18:00.001-07:00

Written by: HHCF Volunteer
The agent for Jada Pinkett-Smith and Will Smith just emailed from Beverly Hills:
"I work for the Smith Family. Mrs. Jada Pinkett-Smith read yesterday’s story in the LA Times and was very moved. Can the organization accept credit cards? The earliest we can get a check to you would be by Tuesday morning.

Please let me know as soon as possible how we can best help this situation.

Thanks!

--ang"

And that is How Cinderella got to the chess tournament and had a room and food and a happy ending.

God Bless Jada Pinkett Smith, Will Smith and FedEx!Special thanks to Rakaa, Jupiter JiuJitsu, DJ Lisa St. Regis, Zumbi, and Will Armaline and the Friedman Family for their additional support to deliver this dream!

Any additional funds raised will go to Dyhemia's college fund. We know this girl is going places!

2011-07-24T11:37:00.000-07:00

Open Letter to President Obama about our Chess Cinderella

Dear Mr. President,

When people think about America’s “systems” particularly social services and police, they often have nothing but bitter words. My experience over the past month, as Adisa Banjoko and I searched for Hip-Hop CHess Federation Player Dyhemia Young to give her the news that she was selected to compete in this chess tournament, has renewed my faith in American government, civil servants and law enforcement.

Please, Mr. President, take some time to recognize San Francisco Police Detective Joseph Carroll, social workers Pamela Connie and Sheila George and all the other public servants who worked for the past month to find this girl and give her a shot at her dream. Even the San Francisco City Attorney helped us get her through acres of red tape to allow this foster child to compete in the chess tournament in Texas this coming week and have a shot at a college scholarship and a better experience.

The story below only scratches the surface of this epic which is still unfolding the path to a better life for this young girl.

Sincerely,

HHCF Volunteer
Hip-Hop Chess Federation
email our founder: bishop@hiphopchessfederation.org

It takes many moves to find missing young chess whizBy Maria L. La Ganga, Los Angeles Times
July 23, 2011

When Dyhemia Young was invited to compete in a prestigious all-girls chess tournament, at first it looked like the biggest hurdle would be raising the money to get her there.

The Susan Polgar Girls' Invitational takes place each year at Texas Tech University in Lubbock, and the price tag for flights and accommodations was around $1,600 — a hefty sum for a 16-year-old from San Francisco's hard-knock Bayview District.

The top-rated girl from each state is invited to the annual event. Polgar, the first woman to earn the title of grandmaster, also issues two "wild card" invitations to gifted players who haven't cracked into official competition. It's a world some liken to preparing for the Olympics, with its need for money, lessons and dedicated parents.

But when Adisa Banjoko, founder of the Hip-Hop Chess Federation and Dyhemia's mentor, tried to call her in mid-June to tell her the good news, he realized the money would probably be a lot easier to find than the chess player.

Dyhemia, the very definition of wild card, had disappeared.

None of the phone numbers Banjoko had for her worked anymore, and he hadn't seen her since school let out. No one at John O'Connell High School, where he is a security guard and Dyhemia was a student, had seen the striking junior with the almond eyes, bright smile and sharp mind.

"I reached out to other kids who had gone to O'Connell on Facebook," he recounted. "I figured between Facebook and people who worked there, if that's not going to pull it off, that's bad."

Banjoko describes his protege as "a really good girl with a tumultuous home life. She's a very delicate plant in very harsh weather conditions. It's not whether or not she's a good flower. It's 'are we going to get the conditions right to help her bloom?' So far we haven't."

Dyhemia has played chess on and off since fifth grade, when her social studies teacher taught her how to navigate the 64 squares. She played for a year with Banjoko and the Hip-Hop Chess Federation in ninth grade, and he was struck by her skill. Last year, though, she began to back off.

The federation melds music, martial arts and the game of kings to teach young people the skills to help them through their difficult lives — traits like patience, planning, thinking ahead. Banjoko runs the West Coast operations; Lisa Suhay, a children's book author from Norfolk, Va., leads the East Coast effort.

With Dyhemia scarce and time running out, Suhay hit the computer. A Google search of the girl's name went nowhere, but a check of Google images June 24 gave Suhay and Banjoko their first lead: a missing person's poster from 2008.

"Missing Juvenile," its headline blared, above black-and-white photos of a wistful 13-year-old. "LSW: Blue jeans, possibly with a red jacket. Hair is in a pony tail." And finally, a phone number for the San Francisco Police Department.

Suhay emailed the poster to Banjoko. "Missing persons on her from '08," she wrote. "This our girl?"

The answer was yes.

Suhay dialed the number and was transferred to Det. Joseph Carroll, with the missing person's unit. "I'm going to make the strangest request you are going to get all week," she told him. A half hour later, he called back. "I've got a line on her," Carroll said. But it would take nearly a month for them to connect.

Dyhemia has been in and out of the foster care system for the last three years. Recently, it turned out, she had done a brief stint in juvenile hall — officials will not disclose why — before being sent to the East Palo Alto Teen Home on June 30. That's where Carroll tracked her down last week.

Three other girls, two with babies, live in the split-level, Band-Aid-colored house under the care of executive director Sheila George, who answered the phone last weekend when Dyhemia's social worker called with news of the invitation.

"Ms. George said, 'You that good at chess?'" Dyhemia recounted. "I said, 'I'll go and do my best and have fun.' "

She hasn't played regularly for a year and is nervous about Lubbock.

"I had to focus on my studies," she said. "I messed up in school in ninth-grade year. I had a lot going on in my home situation. But every time Adisa cracked open a board at the library, I wanted to play.

"Chess," she said, "kept me going. It kept me motivated and kept me trying."

Banjoko and Suhay are getting close to raising the funds for Dyhemia's trip, which has doubled in cost because state law requires that she travel with a chaperone. But they're not quite there. The cost of the plane tickets is being covered by FedEx Corp.; Jupiter Jiu Jitsu, a martial arts tournament company; and Los Angeles rapper Rakaa Iriscience.

Dyhemia and George are scheduled to get on the plane Sunday.

The opportunity to play chess with the best girls in the country came as a shock, Dyhemia said. But the biggest surprise was how much effort went into finding her and getting her to Lubbock.

"This is crazy," she said. "That lets me know I'm loved."

maria.laganga@latimes.com
Copyright © 2011, Los Angeles Times

San Francisco chess whiz: It takes many moves to find missing young chess whiz - latimes.com

2011-07-22T22:34:00.000-07:00

San Francisco chess whiz: It takes many moves to find missing young chess whiz - latimes.com

Tweet a message of support to Dyhemia #ChessCinderella

Posted by L. Suhay Lsuhays2@cox.net