India is experiencing a significant rise in chess prominence, particularly in Tamil Nadu, where Chennai has become the "factory of Indian chess." The city boasts a third of India's 85 grandmasters and has produced world champions like Viswanathan Anand and Gukesh Dommaraju. This growth is fueled by grassroots training systems, parental support, and the post-pandemic global chess resurgence sparked by shows like Netflix's *The Queen’s Gambit*. Local trainers and former grandmasters run chess clubs to nurture young talent, while initiatives like Venkatesan Enumalai's Tamil Chess Channel on YouTube aim to democratize access to chess education by teaching in regional languages. Despite challenges such as limited English proficiency among potential players, India aims to leverage its large population and structured training to emerge as a leading global chess power.

After a devastating flood in Westernport, Maryland, Westernport Elementary School was forced to relocate its summer send-off event to Frostburg State University. The school community faced trauma as they lost classrooms, personal belongings, and vehicles during the emergency evacuation. Teachers like Ellie Bolton and Kara McDowell heroically ensured student safety amidst chaos. Despite the loss, traditions continued with field day events and celebrations hosted by Frostburg's Children’s Literature Centre. As recovery efforts progress, counselors help students overcome fears, emphasizing new positive memories over the traumatic experience. Officials anticipate reopening the school for the next academic year.

The Arizona Daily Star Sportsmen’s Fund aims to send 500 children from low-income households and military families in Southern Arizona to summer camp through scholarships funded by community donations. The initiative supports weeklong camps offered by YMCA, Scouting America, Girl Scouts, and Camp Tatiyee for children with special needs. With a fundraising goal of $225,000, the program has currently raised $174,060.19 through 746 contributions. Donations can be made via credit card at azsendakidtocamp.org or by check sent to Send a Kid to Camp, P.O. Box 16141, Tucson, AZ 85732-6141. Contributions are accepted year-round, and recent donors include several individuals and families who have contributed amounts ranging from $100 to $2,000.