Jay Rockefeller: “I am proud today to speak in support of my resolution to designate October 7 through October 13, 2013 as National Chess…”

“I am proud today to speak in support of my resolution to designate October 7 through October 13, 2013 as National Chess Week. I am grateful for the support of my colleagues Senator Alexander and Senator Levin. National Chess Week is designed to increase awareness about the many benefits of chess, and to encourage both children and adults to enjoy this game. Chess has a wide range of educational and cognitive benefits, including improving problem-solving skills and developing critical thinking skills. It helps increase memory function and hone reading and math skills. For these reasons, chess is used by some educators as part of their curriculum, and is even used to help patients who are suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder or the effects of a stroke. Over 80,000 children and adults nationwide are members of the U.S. Chess Federation, and \1/2\ of them are students. Engaging students in chess can help make learning fun, and give them a lifelong pastime that they can enjoy while using and developing their skills. I am proud to support and endorse National Chess Week, which I hope will result in engaging even more citizens of all ages in this important activity.”