For the last several weeks, I’ve had a series of long and intense conversations with a fellow named Jerry Neugarten about the state of chess in the Chicago Public Schools.
But before I get into that, let me say a word or two about Neugarten. He’s a 65-year-old retired lawyer who grew up in Hyde Park, lives in Highland Park, and loves chess—and I mean loves.
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That was the spirit in which he began his great trek through the bureaucracy of Chicago in the spring of 2010.
Neugarten told the aide what he pretty much tells everyone: There’s not nearly enough chess in the city.
Unfortunately, their timing couldn’t have been worse. By the end of 2010, Huberman and his aides had moved on. Mayor Daley, of course, was soon to follow.
Great line, Mrs. Schmakel!
Ouch.
