Our cover problem is a dedication problem for Kimmo Välkesalmi, who turned
50 on the first of May 2011. He is not known as a composer, though he has been
interested in chess compositions for a long time. His major contribution has
been his work as an antiquarian bookseller - his shop in Helsinki is a treasure
cove for anyone interested in chess books, including books and magazines on
chess problems.
The first pages of this issue are devoted to the European Championship in solving.
See p. 44–54 for the report, results, problems and solutions. The Finnish
solving team included GM Kari Valtonen, who made his international comeback
- his previous participation was in 1986!
GM Valtonen writes about the early history of selfmates on pp. 55–61. There
are plenty of interesting details and problems to be enjoyed - and the second
part of this selfmate adventure is yet to come.
On p. 62 we sadly have to inform the passing away of two Finnish problemists,
Kalevi Ojanperä and Kimmo Sampakoski. They were both active in Pori, did
not compose a lot but had a lasting interest in chess composition.
On p. 63 we have announcement Anton Preinfalk MT and information on topical
national competitions. We show the winner of Jorma Pitkänen 70 JT composing
competition and a dedication problem to Pitkänen by Neal Turner.
The spring meeting of ST took place in the middle of March. According to the
traditions, the meeting consisted of solving, composing, lectures and enjoying
nature, fresh air and sauna. The short report on this event is on p. 64.
Neal Turner´s Paha Pähkinä, A Tough Nut to Crack, waits for
your solving efforts on p 65. Have a go, but do not be too disappointed if you
experience a few moments of desparation. This problem proved to be very difficult
in a recent national solving competition.
The originals columns start from p. 71 and offer something for all: orthodox
problems, studies, fairies. Please, send your contributions to our original
problems editors, contact information in respective columns. Solutions should
be sent to the solutions editor Terho Marlo, contact information in the helpmates
column.
Finally, we are happy to note that the feedback on the new outlook of our magazine
has been very positive. This is good news to the persons working for this magazine.
For example, the comments by GMs Petko Petkov and Marjan Kovacevic have been
very encouraging, in addition to several other comments. Let us now keep up
or even improve the substance!
The next issue is due to appear after the summer.
Published 10th June 2011