Chess success in Gary, Indiana

Gary church picks chess tourney for its gathering

March 28, 2007
By Anthony D. Alonzo
Post-Tribune correspondent

GARY — A chess master’s participation in a recent church-sponsored event ensured that a fun afternoon also would be an educational experience.

More than 60 youth and adults converged on Christ Baptist Church for the inaugural “Chess for Christ” tournament.

Chess was chosen by church organizers as the centerpiece activity for the gathering because of its thought-provoking qualities, according to deacon Jerry Wiggins, church business manager.

Several novices soon learned why the international board game is known for bringing out the strategist in even the casual player. Aside from competing with people of similar skill levels, many tournament attendees got a chance to play Indianapolis resident Bernard Parham Sr., a national chess master.

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