Despite heavy snow, two recent go programs in Columbia, Maryland, proved to be warm successes.
First, Alexander Koch, Children’s Librarian at the Howard County Library’s Central Branch, hosted a lively introduction to go in early February. Armed with teaching supplies courtesy of the American Go Foundation, Koch set an ambitious goal: introduce children ages 8–11 to the game, teach the basics, and get them playing—all in a single session. Eleven kids did just that. Stones were flying, games were underway, and more than half the participants checked out the first volume of Hikaru no Go on their way home.
Second, Albert Grosmark wrapped up a four-session “Let’s Play Go” program in January–February at the East Columbia 50+ Center. Seven students learned the fundamentals of the game, and, this reporter is pleased to note, one participant is already attending meetings of the Baltimore Go Club, which also meets in Columbia.
Together, the two programs demonstrate how go continues to attract new players of all ages—even in the depths of winter.
- Keith Arnold, hka