Detroit, September 26, 2025
News Summary
Make A Move LA is concluding its chess tournament series in Detroit on July 19, featuring a unique ‘don’t get lit up’ play style. Participants can win a $200 prize and entry into a grand finale. Local performers will entertain attendees, showcasing the intertwining of chess and the arts. The event emphasizes community engagement and aims to highlight local talents, making it an exciting conclusion to the series as it promotes both competition and creativity within the community.
Detroit Hosts Unique Chess Tournament with Local Flair
The final chess tournament of Make A Move LA’s series will take place on July 19 from noon to 4 PM at Robert C. Valde Park, located at 2670 Atwater St, Detroit. This nonprofit organization, based in Los Angeles, has been using chess and the performing arts to foster community engagement and build bonds among participants. The Detroit tournament is particularly notable for its unique “don’t get lit up” style of play, where a custom wax king piece is set ablaze each time a king is checkmated.
Participants in the tournament will compete for a chance to win a $200 prize, a King’s trophy, and entry into the $10,000 Champion of Champions Grand finale scheduled for October in Los Angeles. Furthermore, the winner will receive free airfare to attend the finale. Make A Move LA has hosted 19 out of the 20 tournaments in various locations, including Compton, Atlanta, and Howard University in Washington, D.C., showcasing its commitment to expanding chess outreach.
Supporting Local Talent
Founded by Jerimiah Payne, the initiative aims not only to revolutionize chess competition but also to spotlight local artistic talents at each event. Following the second round of games, local performers—including comedians, poets, musicians, and dancers—will take the stage. For the Detroit event, a partnership with the Boys and Girls Club of Southeastern Michigan has facilitated the search for local acts. Additionally, the Wise Guys Chess Club, a nonprofit organization in Detroit, has collaborated with Make A Move LA to enhance the tournament experience.
Arthur Johnson, the founder of Wise Guys Chess Club, has a compelling story; he began learning chess while recovering from being shot eight times at age 19. His uncle sparked his interest in the game, which he views as a tool for self-mastery and personal growth. Johnson has drawn parallels between chess and life, emphasizing the importance of foresight and strategy—skills essential for both the board and day-to-day living.
Registration and Participation
The Detroit tournament will mark the conclusion of this tournament series, which has successfully engaged communities through chess and the performing arts. Registration for the event is currently open, allowing interested participants to secure their spots in this unique celebration of skill and creativity. More information about the tournament can be found online.
Background of Make A Move LA
Jerimiah Payne learned chess in the third grade from his brother, Edmond Ardoin. Initially, Payne’s vision was to host a tournament that would bring together champions. This vision evolved into a broader goal of establishing a chess league that emphasizes community and collaboration. Through its tournaments, Make A Move LA aims to create a welcoming atmosphere where both players and artistic performers can thrive.
Past tournament winners have included skilled players such as two-time victor Vincent Hubbard, Damien Fletcher, and Gabriel Sam, adding to the competitive spirit of these unique events. With each tournament, Make A Move LA continues to demonstrate its commitment to community building through chess and performance.
Additional Information
The “don’t get lit up” style of play and the surrounding activities are designed to create a family-friendly environment. Engaging local performers enriches the overall experience, encouraging attendees to appreciate both the intellectual challenge of chess and the expressive nature of the performing arts. Make A Move LA’s impact resonates beyond the chessboard, promoting community cohesion and showcasing artistic talent.
FAQ Section
What date and time will the Detroit chess tournament take place?
The final tournament of this series will be held in Detroit on July 19 from noon to 4 PM at Robert C. Valde Park, 2670 Atwater St, Detroit.
What is the prize for the winner of the tournament?
The winner of the Detroit tournament will receive a $200 prize, a King’s trophy, and entry into the $10,000 Champion of Champions Grand finale in Los Angeles in October.
How does Make A Move LA support local talent during the tournament?
Make A Move LA aims to highlight local talent at each chess tournament by featuring performers such as comedians, poets, musicians, and dancers after the second round.
Is registration for the tournament still open?
Registration for the Detroit tournament is still open, with more information available online.
Key Features Chart
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Event Date | July 19 from noon to 4 PM |
| Location | Robert C. Valde Park, 2670 Atwater St, Detroit |
| Winner’s Prize | $200 prize, King’s trophy, entry into final tournament, free airfare |
| Perfoming Arts | Local acts performing after the second round |
| Registration Status | Open for participation |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Detroit Free Press
- Chess.com: Nationally Recognized Chess Team Under Scrutiny
- El Paso Times
- Wikipedia: Chess
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Chess
Author: STAFF HERE ATLANTA WRITER
The ATLANTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAtlanta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Atlanta, Fulton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as vibrant music festivals like Shaky Knees and Music Midtown, major cultural celebrations including Dragon Con and the Atlanta Film Festival, and iconic sporting events like the Peachtree Road Race. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce and the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, beverages, and retail that power the local economy such as Delta Air Lines, The Coca-Cola Company, and The Home Depot. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAugusta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
