NORFOLK, Va. (WVEC) -- A local barbershop is starting a chess club in hopes of providing a positive outlet for kids.
Stephen Portis owns 'Better Barbers' on Tidewater Drive.
"I still want the shop to be like, not just for you to get a haircut," said Portis.
A barbershop like his is one Portis is used to, one that's a community hub where he can focus on his strategy.
The back and forth chess matches at the barbershop is something he's done his whole life and now, he wants to teach kids by starting a chess club at the shop.
"I remembered how important it was for me when I was young. It helped me with focus," he said.
Diagnosed with ADD And ADHD at a young age, chess helped him. Portis credits chess and a woodshop teacher who taught him.
It also helped Portis stay out of trouble and carve a positive path for his future.
"The area I lived in was gang infested and it was hard not to go with the crowd," said Portis.
He started the chess club to give back the same way he was helped, hoping kids who don't have afterschool activities will consider chess as an option.
"I'm hoping they can grow patience, learn strategy, and become smarter for it," said Portis.
If you take him up on the offer, he'll sweeten the deal.
"If you beat one of our barbers, you get a free haircut," Portis said.
Anyone interested in getting involved with his chess club should call 'Better Barbers' and ask Portis.
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