E. Campbell, my grandfather, always encouraged me to tag along as he made his rounds around town. The Checker room and the little building at the fairgrounds next to the croquet court were a couple of our favorite haunts. It was 50 years ago but I can still smell the cedar shavings that carpeted the floor and feel the heat from old wood stove. I was quick to learn not to stand too close to the spittoon! Eventually we'd make our way to Circle R for a fish sandwich and the best French fries on the planet.

I never saw anyone beat my grandfather at checkers and I know I never even came close.