Kids Go Nuts for Chess

Every Wednesday during the summer, a group of children between the ages of seven to 10 gather inside the to play the game of chess. 

The group learned the history of chess, different strategies of the game and how to accomplish checkmate in three moves. 

"Most of them did not know how to play," Mark Tangarone, instructor, said. "The best way to learn is to play someone better than you."

Several of the children play against their grandparents, sibilings and the computer. 

Tangarone, who learned the game from his father, said chess strengthens your mind and can be applied in any life situation. He added players are respectful and shake hands before and after the game.

"They win without boasting and lose without excuse," Tangarone, who has over 30 years of teaching experience, said. 

The CHESSnuts spent Wednesday morning playing "incredible edible chess," where all the pieces are candies and the winner gets all the remaining pieces on the board. 

Siddhant Sharma, 8, won the championship tournament last week. 

"You have to use a lot of strategies," he said. Sharma, who plays mostly on the computer, credits the queen for getting him the win. 

The club will be offered again next spring and summer. Tangarone is expected to start a cribbage club as well.