SENATE MEMORIAL 78

52nd legislature - STATE OF NEW MEXICO - first session, 2015

INTRODUCED BY

Jacob R. Candelaria

A MEMORIAL

DECLARING FEBRUARY 17, 2015 "CHESS DAY" IN THE SENATE.

     WHEREAS, chess is one of the world's most popular games, played by millions of people worldwide in homes, parks, clubs, online, by correspondence and in tournaments; and

     WHEREAS, studies show that chess assists with improved memory, improved cognitive abilities, strategic thinking and attention improvement; and

     WHEREAS, studies have shown that chess education is an effective tool for developing analytical skills in children; and

     WHEREAS, chess education has been shown to improve test scores for students; and

     WHEREAS, there are countless instances of chess being credited with changing people's lives for the better; and

     WHEREAS, New Mexico has a deep and impressive roster of chess educators who have worked tirelessly to increase access to chess education for children in New Mexico; and

     WHEREAS, learners chess academy, founded in 2010, has developed after-school chess clubs in more than forty schools over the last four years, has taught thousands of children how to play chess in after-school programs and camps and has become nationally recognized for its innovative work; and

     WHEREAS, chess educators, organizers and tournament directors have been teaching and developing chess opportunities for New Mexico youth for many years;

     NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE OF THE STATE OF NEW MEXICO that February 17, 2015 be declared "Chess Day" in the senate and that recognition be given to individuals who made contributions to the development of countless young people through years of service as chess coaches, organizers and directors; and

     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that educators and others wishing to make a difference in the lives of young people be urged to consider how they can support the development of youth chess in New Mexico as coaches, organizers, volunteers, donors or in other ways that positively contribute to opportunities for young people to learn the game of chess; and

     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a copy of this memorial be transmitted to the president of the New Mexico chess organization.

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