Books to Bishops: Creating Timeless Connections with Tribute Together

Our Tribute Together program is about more than hosting events with our partners; it’s about creating moments that lift spirits, spark conversation, and deepen connections to each other and the world around us. This month, Tribute Together’s Kristin Schwarz started two new experiences that brought this mission to our partner residences: a conversation with a legendary bookseller and a series of engaging chess sessions.

A Firsthand Look at Secondhand Stories

Our first featured event welcomed Ken Gloss, owner of Boston’s iconic Brattle Book Shop and a familiar face from PBS’s Antiques Roadshow. While the event was originally designed for vintage book lovers, it quickly became something much deeper: a reflection on legacy, memory, and the treasures we pass down from generation to generation.

Ken shared remarkable stories, not only about rare and valuable books, but also about his family’s deep roots in Boston’s literary history. Residents were captivated by tales of his father’s role in the shop, Ken’s journey as a second-generation bookseller, and colorful behind-the-scenes moments from his Roadshow experiences.

As Ken spoke about his lifelong love of books, residents opened as well, sharing the titles that had shaped their lives and the memories tied to them. For some, their children were there and joined in, making the moment even more special. For others, it was a chance to relive memories of reading with loved ones or discovering a book that left a lasting mark.

By the end, everyone left with the same realization: stories—whether read, told, or lived—are meant to be shared.

Chess: A Classic Game, Rediscovered Together (I like the idea of it becoming intergenerational, but it isn’t yet)

Our second Tribute Together event brought an old favorite back into focus. In partnership with the passionate team at The Boardroom Chess in Maryland, we launched an introductory chess program that’s quickly becoming a resident favorite.

For many of our clients, a chessboard wasn’t just a game—it was a fixture in the living room, a symbol of quiet focus and family tradition. And just like a good book, a game of chess becomes richer when it’s shared.

Now the Boardroom Chess instructors and residents are rediscovering the joy of the game and sharing it with one another. Chess sharpens the mind, rewards patience, and encourages meaningful, in-person connections. Some have already made weekend chess dates with family and friends. Others are planning to join community teams for upcoming friendly matches.

Many told us they’re eager to teach the game to their grandchildren, kids who may be more familiar with TikTok than a rook or bishop. For them, it’s a chance to connect in a way that’s thoughtful, screen-free, and surprisingly fun.

Whether it’s a newcomer learning how the knight moves or a seasoned player thinking five steps ahead, each session brings new energy, new friendships, and a renewed sense of purpose. It’s more than a game—it’s a bridge across generations.