[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 116 (Wednesday, August 1, 2012)]
[Senate]
[Page S5884]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  SENATE RESOLUTION 539--DESIGNATING OCTOBER 13, 2012, AS ``NATIONAL 
                              CHESS DAY''

  Mr. ROCKEFELLER (for himself, Mr. Alexander, and Mr. Levin) submitted 
the following resolution; which was considered and agreed to:

                              S. Res. 539

       Whereas there are more than 80,000 members of the United 
     States Chess Federation (referred to in this preamble as the 
     ``Federation''), and an unknown number of additional people 
     in the United States who play chess without joining an 
     official organization;
       Whereas approximately \1/2\ of the members of the 
     Federation are members of scholastic chess programs, and many 
     of those members join the Federation by the age of 10;
       Whereas the Federation is very supportive of scholastic 
     chess programs and sponsors a Certified Chess Coach program 
     that provides the coaches involved in the scholastic chess 
     programs with training and ensures schools and students can 
     have confidence in the programs;
       Whereas many studies have linked scholastic chess programs 
     to the improvement of students' scores in reading and math, 
     as well as improved self-esteem;
       Whereas the Federation offers guidance to educators to help 
     incorporate chess into the school curriculum;
       Whereas chess is a powerful cognitive learning tool that 
     can be used to successfully enhance students' reading skills 
     and understanding of math concepts; and
       Whereas chess engages students of all learning styles and 
     strengths and promotes problem-solving and higher-level 
     thinking skills: Now, therefore, be it
       Resolved, That the Senate--
       (1) designates October 13, 2012, as ``National Chess Day'' 
     to enhance awareness and encourage students and adults to 
     play chess, a game known to enhance critical-thinking and 
     problem-solving skills; and
       (2) encourages the people of the United States to observe 
     National Chess Day with appropriate programs and activities.

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