Strategy and Gambit

11/07/2025

In chess, the most dangerous moment isn't when you're down a piece or staring at a forced mate. It's when the engine says +5.00 and you think the game is over. Your mind drifts to the post -morten, the rating points, the tweet. One lazy move later, and your opponent turns into Tom Brady down 28-3 against the Falcons in the 2017 Super Bowl LI....

In chess, the most dangerous moment isn’t when you’re down a piece or staring at a forced mate. It’s when the engine says +5.00 and you think the game is over. Your mind drifts to…

11/02/2025

https://strategyandgambit.com/2025/11/02/why-chess-with-strategy-and-gambit-teaches-emotional-intelligence/

Most parents picture chess as boring pieces on a set of squares; quiet, serious, cold. Not me! Eavesdrop into one of my lessons and you’ll hear, “I’m not the rook! The rook never …

10/07/2025

The reason why my students enjoy lessons is because I tailor to those who have aren’t naturally analytical, and because I teach the game through character development in narrative, each piece has depth and strategy disguised as plot-lines becomes engrained knowledge of strategy. The 64 squares aren’t simply 4-sided, there are hills, highways, blind spots, double-crossing villains and lowly peasants rising to hero status, all while navigating troublesome forks in the road. Make a “Brilliant” !! move and schedule your free first chess lesson today!

09/27/2025

Flexible scheduling options now available. Schedule your first lesson today! Vancouver area in-person private chess lessons delivered by a lifelong player in the top 98th percentile with two advanced degrees in education. Call today! 360-869-9041

Did you know?

Playing just 20 minutes of chess daily, no matter the skill level, can reduce the risk and/or delay effects of dementia and other cognitive disorders by up to 15% (According to the New England Journal of Medicine).

Fun Fact: Strategy & Gambit's very first student was an end-stage Alzheimer's patient -- proving it's NEVER too late to start sharpening your mind. Chess isn't just a game; it's an underutilized strategy against cognitive decline.

Strengthen cognitive resilience and decision-making through this skill.

Learn from a highly qualified educator who specializes in pedagogy (child learning), andragogy (adult learning), and decades of chess experience.

Start today. Your brain will thank you.

03/19/2025

Currently providing in the following areas (willing to travel) and have some additional availability for private chess lessons and/or classes:

Mondays: Camas
Tuesdays: Cascade/Mill Plain
Wednesdays: Salmon Creek
Thursdays: Camas
Fridays: Vancouver Mall/Downtown
Saturdays: Contact Us
Sundays: Contact Us

Battleground/Vancouver/Washougal/Portland

360-869-9041
strategyandgambit@gmail.com

03/05/2025

Yesterday morning, I had the privilege of sharing the joy of chess with an elderly Alzheimer's patient, and it was truly a heartwarming experience. Last night, I conducted a chess lesson for a child, but soon the entire family was inspired to participate, and we had a fantastic chess gathering. This morning, I provided instruction to an adult client who was extremely enthusiastic about learning, and I found myself caught up in their excitement as well. My student expressed gratitude, saying, 'Thank you for the exceptionally valuable lesson,' and I felt grateful to have made a positive impact. Now I am eager to create more of these uplifting moments. Would you like to be a part of it? Please do not hesitate to contact me at 360-869-9041.

02/23/2025

Sharing the success of our lessons!

Our aging elders are positively benefiting from our time together as research suggested! Retirement communities are excited, and classes will be scheduled by the end of the week.

Research shows chess education has positive impact in 5 of 9 indicators for those with ADHD!

Research shows that chess education can benefit those struggling with addictions and aides in recovery!

Contact before the schedule fills up!

Vancouver | Portland | Battle Ground | La Center | Ridgefield
Strategy & Gambit
360-869-9041

02/20/2025

Thanks for the shoutout Vancouver in Real Life. Those following S&G check out vanwairl.com to support local business!

02/17/2025

Vancouver based small business sharing research about dementia and Alzheimer's prevention. Lower your chance for future cognitive decline by up to 35%! It's never too late! Any age can benefit from our lessons and develop their chess game; from beginner to advanced. Don't wait! Call and schedule a lesson now!!! (360) 869-9041