Chess Board Goes to Pieces

Lawsuits, back-room negotiations, and secret emails. With a helping of all three, the U.S. Chess Federation is demonstrating that the stereotype of the gentlemanly chess player should be retired in favor of a darker image. Four members of the body responsible for governing American chess have voted out two other members, married couple Susan Polgar and Paul Truong. Last year, Truong was accused of posting obscene messages on an online discussion forum in the names of other board members. Another case has been launched accusing a different board member of stealing email messages. A third lawsuit is pending as Polgar has accused the federation of libel. She's asking for $25 million in damages. It's not checkmate time yet, though: Polgar and Truong are appealing the board's decision.