In Arad we play chess under the shade of one big tree. This area has 3 very nice concrete type chess tables provided by the city. Each table has 4 seats, thus a capacity for 12 people, accommodating 6 players and 6 spectators. And only 1 or 2 of the 3 tables are out of the direct sun at any given time.
We have at least 50 people accumulating in this area each day (more I’m sure if there were more shade) playing chess, dominos, checkers, and cards. Where do they all sit?
They rig up make shift tables and use broken down chairs. The latest addition is an old picnic bench they found somewhere.
At the end of each day, they meticulously chain the chairs and table parts down, so that they’ll all be there in the morning. Feeling sorry, I once contemplated purchasing a bunch of plastic type patio chairs for the guys but I know they would be stolen during the night, never seeing sunrise.
When 4 chess player and I went to Rishon to pay respect, stand in solidarity, and bang heads with the chess players there, we were mesmerized by there facilities. While we in Arad play under a tree, these guys play in a pavilion type thingy, with lights! They have steel bolted down benches with wooden seats. Their tables are made of steel too as well as bolted down.
Wow, this is exactly what we need in Arad! I have to get someone to translate for me. I want to get a hold of that contractor. I want to know the cost. I want to know if we come up with the funds will we have the ok to build.
Little did I know that as I was contemplating these things and taking pictures Joe (the chess master) was setting up an appointment with the assisting town mayor and city engineer! We are to meet with them July 3, 2003 (thanks Holy Spirit).
I don’t know if I’ll be able to take pictures at the meeting but I will keep you posted.
Edwin Beckford, July 28, 2003