I would recommend the following books for study: A Guide to Chess Endings, by Max Euwe and Winning Chess Endgames by Tony Kosten. Both available from amazon.com, these books will help you greatly and are written in a very easy-to-understand style. The biggest mistake most players make regarding the endgame: Making moves based on general principles instead of being based on a knowledge of endgame concepts. Most players know to run their kings to the center when the endgame begins, but after that they are "guessing". Learn the basic and intermediate concepts of the endgame, then set up sample endgames with a computer program or a friend for practice. Make a decision to master King and pawn endings, rook endgames, minor piece endings and finally queen endings. treat each differently as the strategies for each are VERY different (which is why playing the endgame based on broad generalities is doomed to failure). The endgame may be the most difficult part of the game to excel at, so treat it with respect and give it the time and patience it takes to learn------good luck!

As much as I am embarrassed for thinking George had passed on, I am equally happy to hear that he is still alive and well! George has been a veritable "Johnny Appleseed" of chess for most of his life. Sorry, George!

It's been said that the Ruy is a perfect crystallization of opening stategy for white. ...a6 does not really white precious tempo, because the bishop is being "chased" to the diagonal it wants to go to anyway (a2-g8 or c2-h7). I have never been a big fan of it because Black has so many different choices in combating it. But dont take MY word for it, as it is a dangerous weapon in the hands of many top GMs. I prefer openings that throw the opponent as early as I can.