Madam President, 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.
Share & report
More from Jay Rockefeller
Moreover, by using the term ``waive'' in section 2323, the Senate is attempting to prohibit Federal officials from using their waiver authority under certain means-tested programs--such as those afforded to agencies in relation to…
Mr. President, I rise to introduce the Fair Telephone Billing Act of 2013. This legislation would protect millions of American consumers and businesses from unauthorized charges on their wireline telephone bills. In 2011, the Senate…
Mr. President, the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation has adopted rules governing its procedures for the 113th Congress. Pursuant to rule XXVI, paragraph 2, of the Standing Rules of the Senate, I ask unanimous consent that…
Mr. President, on this important day, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder--PTSD--Awareness Day, we must pause to reflect on the contributions of our Nation's veterans and recommit ourselves to a sacred promise that should never be forgotten…





