youngsters.

It will be the first time a professional chess Master will teach local children the ancient game.

The Bermuda International House of Languages on Par-la-Ville Road has invited Joel Salman, a US Chess Federation National Master since 1992, a Life Master since 1993 and one the top ten players in Long Island, New York.

Mr. Salman received the international title of FIDE Master in 1994, and works with over 300 children between the ages of 5 and 18 during the academic year.

Riquette Bonne-Smith, director of the House of Languages, said: "Chess promotes logical thinking and problem solving skills, while helping to develop a child's powers of concentration.'' Mrs. Bonne-Smith added that chess is often a young person's first opportunity to realise that thinking can be enjoyable which can affect academic performance.

The course runs from June 29 to July 10 for children from ages six to 13. The deadline for registration is Friday June 19.

The course will be held at the Bermuda College and is divided into two sessions from 9 a.m. until noon and from 1 p.m. until 4 p.m.

For more information, 296-5676.