Executive Director’s Column – July 2009
This summer has been filled with library programs, summer camps, and community events. For the past three summers, I have had the pleasure of teaching at several local camps. One of the best camps in the area is the Lake Arbor Summer Enrichment Camp. I mention this because I think children need to be given as many opportunities as possible to practice using their ability to think. Lake Arbor requires and expects that from the children they feel responsible for.
On June 20th, Prince George’s County held its second Juneteenth celebration. Though it rained until after 12 pm, the sun finally came out and we had a pretty good crowd. The turnout included people who were chess players and others who wanted to learn about the game. I am always glad when EAGLE Chess Academy is invited to participate in community events.
In bringing this column to a close, I would like to ask you to help promote chess. If you don’t know how to play, learn and encourage people you know (particularly young people) to learn to play. If you know students or teachers, encourage them to start chess clubs or support existing clubs.
The more people are aware of the fun and benefits gained from playing chess, the more young people will want to play. The younger children are when they learn, the better. A child who learns to play in first grade and enjoys it to the extent they are as excited about practicing and getting better as some kids are about basketball, could be a master level player by 12th grade. That could mean a college scholarship!
