Cellmate Checkmate: Cook County Inmates Take on Russian Prisoners in Online Chess Match

America and Russia are classic rivals. The space race, the Cold War and the Miracle on Ice all stand testament to that. Now, thanks to a new Cook County program, we can add prison chess tournaments to the list.

On Wednesday morning, 10 Cook County Jail detainees will compete in an online chess match against Russian Federal Prison Service inmates in a first-ever event of its kind.

Cook County Sheriff Tom Dart and Cook County Jail chess program head Dr. Mikhail Korenman will hold a press conference at 9 a.m. Wednesday with Russian officials via Skype. The games will then begin promptly at 9:30 a.m., inside Division 11 of the Cook County Jail. 

Patch published a preview of this concept last year. Here’s what some south suburbanites thought of the program.

“Thank you Sheriff Dart! What an excellent program! About 15 years ago, teachers were saying my son had ADHD - I didn't think so - and after getting an independent professional opinion that said he did not, our local library was offering chess classes - which I signed my son up for -- his body calmed down as the mind engaged in working out a strategy - nothing else worked like chess (not books, music, etc) --he's an adult male now who still enjoys the game! So yes, bring on the chess -- it's a positive outlet!” —Gogigi

“My problem with this is that they are getting chess lessons (with a champion chess player) for free while those of us who haven't committed a crime have to pay at least $75 (at many park districts) to $100's of dollars (to join a chess club)! Even chess club in schools charge at least $25!” —AEB

“Some years ago I read an article on this subject where a teacher used part of lunch hour to play chess with his failing students. As they improved on the game they also improved on their concentration and study habits for better grades. Many criminals were failures in school. If they learn to focus and gain self respect to become better citizens the cost is worth it. Personally, I think chess should be an activity in all schools. Ban the cell phone.” —H. E. Kraeger