Mayor Darrin Canniff is pleased to announce a collaboration between the Municipality of Chatham-Kent, using funds from the mayor’s portion of the Councillor Ward Fund Program, and New Rubber Technologies in the purchase and installation of human size chess and checker sets.
Coming soon this summer, people wishing to borrow and play chess or checkers will be able to do so in Wallaceburg, with another location in Chatham-Kent to be determined, Municipal officials say.
“This new addition to our community will not only provide a fun and engaging activity for our residents and visitors but will also promote socialization and community engagement,” Municipal officials said, in a media release.
“Chess is a game that has been enjoyed by people for centuries and is known for promoting critical thinking, strategic planning, and problem-solving skills. With the installation of this giant chess set, we hope to encourage our residents to learn and play the game while enjoying the outdoors and our public spaces.”
Municipal officials added: “The Municipality is committed to providing opportunities for residents to engage in healthy and fun activities and this giant chess set is just one of many municipal initiatives to promote physical and mental well-being. The set will be placed in a central location accessible to everyone and residents are encouraged to come out and enjoy this new addition.”
The Municipality wishes to thank New Rubber Technologies in Tilbury for their generous donation to the chess and checker project by donating the elaborate chess board squares.
When asked why they chose to sponsor this project, they said “we are delighted to contribute to the community by donating these giant chess sets. We believe community bonding is essential for a happy and healthy society, and this project aligns with our values. We hope these sets will bring joy and create lasting memories for the people of our community. It is a privilege to be a part of this initiative and contribute to the well-being of our community.”
“This set is a fantastic addition to our community,” said Mayor Canniff, in a media release.
“It provides an opportunity for people of all ages and backgrounds to come together, have fun, and create new connections. We are grateful for the generous donation of these sets and look forward to seeing our community come together over a game of giant chess. This is an excellent example of how a small initiative can have a big impact on our community, and I am excited to see the positive impact this program will have on our residents.”
The President and General Manager of New Rubber Technologies, Greg Gawne, highlighted the importance of this collaboration, stating, “We are honored to work with the Municipality on this exciting initiative to introduce recreational giant chess sets to our community. Our company strongly believes in the power of leisure activities that promote strategic thinking, social interaction, and healthy competition. By installing these giant chess sets, we aim to create a space where people of all ages and backgrounds can gather, enjoy the outdoors, and participate in a timeless game that transcends generations.”
The collaboration between New Rubber Technologies and the Municipality underscores the mutual commitment to enhancing the quality of life for residents and visitors alike.
By offering a unique recreational experience, the collaboration seeks to foster a sense of community, promote outdoor activities, and encourage intellectual development.
Gawne further emphasized the company’s dedication to giving back to the community, stating, “At New Rubber Technologies, we firmly believe in the importance of corporate social responsibility and making a positive impact on the places we call home. Collaborating with the Municipality aligns perfectly with our core values of community engagement and philanthropy. By investing in recreational giant chess sets, we are not only creating an enjoyable experience but also contributing to the enrichment of our community by encouraging mental agility and strategic thinking.”
