Columbus Park in New York City’s Chinatown has basketball courts, a children’s playground, a soccer field and the Dr. Sun Yat-sen Monument Plaza. The Plaza is a gathering place to find space and fresh air. People listen to the street musicians and socialize with friends. Many people also arrive daily to play cards and Chinese Chess (which is similar to Western Chess as the object is to capture the leader). Men and women surround the tables giving advice to the players and each other. Though the sexes usually stay separate, I found coed games becoming more common. The games are often intense with much camaraderie among the spectators. The Plaza is a unique place where you can observe many people enjoying themselves and each other.
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