Almost there, and I will be hungry when I arrive

Here we are just a mere 2 days from the start of the event.  We are now over 510 players and still counting.  Which of course means, get there early to get some space in the skittles area.

I have a reputation as a foodie when I travel for chess tournaments.  My co-organizer Tim often likes to tease and remind me of that.  In fact, several years ago at a National scholastic event, I was blasted by the then USCF events manager for being too much of a food tourist.  Now of course she failed to acknowlege that she was as tired of the cafeteria style fare at the tournament venue as I was, and tagged along on my searches for good food.  So I have come to enjoy that description of me. 

So where do we go to eat in Rockford?  I was actually hoping someone would give me some recommendations.  After looking around, I do have a short list of places I want to try.  One of the more surprising things to me about what is available in the area, is that there is a fair amount of different ethnic places.  Places I am considering hitting are the Stockholm Inn for Swedish breakfasts, and smorgasbord.  Rockford has a sizeable Swedish population, and this place is rather well known.  Also, Der Rathskeller for German, and the Mead Longwood market for Deli food.  If anyone has suggestions, please send them on to me, I will be looking forward to it.

Glenn

Sock Monkey Madness

So apparently we aren't the only game in town in Rockford the first weekend in March.  There is a large bowling event in town at the same time, and the far more interesting event... Sock Monkey Madness!!

Sock Monkeys were first created in Rockford by a sock knitting company, and these days there is actually a festival dedicated to the icon of pop culture.  Parents looking to get away from the madness of the tournament can go and make their own monkey!  Details can be found at http://www.midwayvillage.com/wordpress/event-registration/?regevent_action=register&event_id=1

Bonus points to anyone that brings me back a chess themed sock monkey!

Glenn

Overflow hotel

Well, the bad news is that the Clock Tower resort has sold out.  The good news is that means we will likely have a great turnout.

We have come to an agreement with the Holiday Inn at 7550 E State St, which is just a few doors down from the Clocktower, for another block of chess rooms.  The price is $99 per night, just ask for the chess rate.

Thanks,

Glenn