Weddle Applauds Parks Committee Approval of Chess Initiative
Weddle, a Former State Chess Champion, Says Measure Will Engage Inner City Youths
Supervisor Martin Weddle, a former state chess champion, today applauded the Parks, Energy and Environment Committee for approving a measure that asks the Parks, Recreation and Culture Department to conduct an analysis on the feasibility of implementing a Milwaukee County Youth Chess Program beginning in the summer of 2015.
The measure targets youths in kindergarten through eighth grade (K-8), to include chess instruction, coaching and accessible equipment for the purpose of learning the game and skills of chess with the potential of competitive participation in tournaments.
“This is a chance to engage inner city youths in a game that involves stretching the mind,” Weddle said. “They can play foosball and shoot hoops, which are great physical activities, but chess is a game that will allow youths to use the skills of their mind to win the game.”
Weddle said the initiative would help inner city youths engage in activities that do not require physical talents but do require mental stamina.
“Not everyone can engage in athletic activities,” Weddle said. “While it is important to be physically active, it’s just as important to be active in skills of the mind as well.
“The game of chess improved my quality of life and opened me up to travel opportunities, exposure to great people and minds. The game enhances critical thinking abilities, which are key in navigating throughout life. This is something I want to expose to our youths.”
NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.
Mentioned in This Press Release
Recent Press Releases by Martin Weddle
County Board Approves Weddle Amendments to Improve Washington Park
Nov 11th, 2015 by Martin WeddleBand Shell, West Baseball Field to Get Repairs, Amenities
Finance Committee Approves Weddle Amendement for $1 Million for African American Community Economic Stimulus Package
Nov 2nd, 2015 by Martin WeddleFunding Designed to Award Micro-Grants to Community Organizations, Strengthen Youth Employment, Provide Financial Support to Community Organizations and Institutions
Finance Committee Approves Funding for “Chess in the Parks” Program
Oct 29th, 2015 by Martin WeddleCommittee Also Approves Study for North Side Sports Complex
This sounds like a great way to use parks to promote education and community. It’s low-cost and portable.
There’s a doc film about how chess transformed the lives of kids in Brooklyn or the Bronx. I read that Martin Weddle’s a former state chess champion.