10.20.2026  Over 70 chess players and supporters gathered at the Ellsworth Public Library on Saturday, October 17th to participate in the first Dick Powell Memorial Chess Tournament. Here is the illustrated tournament report.

A poster with an image of Mr. Powell himself welcomed players to the event.

Thanks to Dan Monahan and Berit Becker for contributing to this report and providing images of the day.

Players paid homage to chess coach and teacher, Dick Powell, who passed away last year. Among other things, Mr. Powell was known for repeatedly taking his Deer Isle scholastic chess teams to state and national championships and hosting many all-night chess-a-thons over the years. A few of his students and his grandson played in the Open section on Saturday and it was clear that Mr. Powell's legacy lives on.

The tournament was played in four sections: Open, U1000, U500, and non-rated, In the Open section, Isaac Marnik and Marin Alexander shared equal first with 3.5 points. Makayla Bouchard was the sole winner atop the U1000 section with 3.5 points. In the U500 section, a two-way tie ensued between Owen Guy and Vishesh Kohar each putting up 4.0 points. In the non-rated section, Ian Michelson was perfect on the day with 4.0 points in four games.

Thank you to all of the tournament directors and helpers that assisted and a BIG THANK YOU to the Ellsworth Public Library for hosting!

To learn more about Dick Powell's life and legacy please visit: >> In Memory: Richard Aldrich "Dick" Powell <<

>> Ellsworth American Article: Memorial Chess Tournament a Success <<

The great room in the Ellsworth Public Library served as the main tournament room.

Displaying an age-old tradition of which Mr. Powell would have been proud, players shake hands before the game to commence with the round.

The turnout for the tournament was robust--a testament to Mr. Powell's influence.

Tournament directors compare notes to assure a smooth running tournament.

Some handsome trophies were up for grabs.

Winners in the Open section

Winners in the non-rated section

Winners all.