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This year our Fourth of July column appears on the day itself, America's birthday. It's a time to reaffirm our patriotism and honor the greatness of America. At The Checker Maven, we're proud American patriots who are profoundly grateful for the opportunities and blessings that come from living in America, and thankful to the men and women who give so much to defend our freedom.

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There's nothing like a Fourth of July picnic to celebrate, and there's nothing like a Tom Wiswell problem to make checkers part of the day. Mr. Wiswell was a great American player, problemist, and patriot, one of the "Greatest Generation" who served in our armed forces during the Second World War.

Here's the problem.

BLACK

WHITE
White to Play and Win

W:W28,26,K21,13:BK29,20,10,5.

Mr. Wiswell called this one "Strolling Through The Park" because he happened upon some players in the park (presumably Central Park in New York City) and saw the White player miss the win. We wouldn't say that the problem is super-hard, but it does require a good eye and good judgment.

Take a little stroll with this one, then walk your mouse to Read More to see the solution.

Solution

26-23*---A 10-15 21-17 29-25 23-18 15x22 17x26 25-21 13-9*---B 5x14 26-22---C 14-18---D 22x15 21-17 15-18 White Wins.

A---Not 26-22 10-15 Drawn.

B---Not 26-22 21-17 22-18 to a draw. The winning move is one that requires real over the board skill to see.

C---Regains the man and reaches a winning position.

D---All other moves still lead to a White win on "the move."

And now, bring on the hot dogs and watermelon!

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