Deep within the heart of the magical state of Massachusetts, where the whispers of the ancient forests mix with the laughter of the sparkling waters, an army of pint-sized warriors gathers. No, they’re not preparing to battle dragons or wrestle giant squids. They're sharpening their minds for a different kind of battle: the Royal Chess Championship. In the enchanted town of Checkmate Junction, nestled between the famous Salem Broth Cauldron and the historic Boston Tea Party Bay, these brilliant young minds huddle together, their eyes lit with the fire of competition. They're not your ordinary kids. They are the Chess Masters of Massachusetts, more affectionously known as the Chessettes! Leading the Chessettes is an unusual character, dubbed Sir Checkmate-a-Lot. Sir Checkmate, a sprightly, plump gnome, with twinkling eyes as blue as the Boston Harbor and a beard as white as a New England winter, is a wizard at chess. His belly jiggles with laughter as he teaches the kids mind-boggling chess strategies, all while juggling marshmallow pawns and biscuit bishops. Sir Checkmate has a funny rule though; every time a Chessette loses a game, they must tell the funniest joke they know. The ensuing laughter lights up the room brighter than the Fourth of July fireworks! The Chessettes of Massachusetts are an extraordinary bunch. They're fierce, they're funny, and they're fuelled by an undying love for chess. Navigating through their chessboard kingdoms, they don't just play chess; they bring it to life. And in the midst of it all, they learn to celebrate their victories, laugh at their losses, and rediscover the magical joy of playing the game. The Chessettes are indeed the beating heart of the enchanted Massachusetts chess scene!
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For over 50 years, Frontier Camp has been dedicated to making disciples of Jesus by sharing God’s Word amidst the beauty of His creation. Since our founding in 1969, we’ve been licensed by the Texas Department of State Health Services and are proudly accredited by the American Camping Association. We’re also a member of the Christian Camping and Conference Association. Our mission is to use Christian camping and outdoor recreation as a means to support local churches in fulfilling the Great Commission—evangelizing people of all ages and discipling believers toward deeper maturity in Christ. Frontier Camp offers a dual ministry: during the summer, we host a 10-week youth camp, and throughout the rest of the year, we serve as a retreat facility for churches and like-minded religious organizations. Whether through summer camps or retreats, our goal remains the same: to expose people to Christ and encourage their spiritual growth through His Word and by reflecting His character in everything we do. While we provide top-notch recreation and exciting programming, the heart of our camp is the spiritual impact, rooted in the truth of God’s inerrant Word.
For more than 100 years, Hill House has been a beacon of hope in downtown Boston. The Mt. Vernon and Joy Street buildings, located in the heart of Beacon Hill, offer a variety of programs for children from newborn to 12 years old. From creative endeavors to intellectual pursuits, Hill House gives families who live in Beacon Hill, Back Bay, West End and other downtown neighborhoods access to the same youth activities that are typically found in the suburbs. Each year, over 2,000 children enroll in Hill House programs. Hill House is particularly well-known for its early childhood classes, but it also supports the community through monthly senior dinners, outreach programs and seasonal events. The Hill House Soccer program is Boston’s largest organized fall soccer program, with more than 500 players and volunteer coaches. The organization also encourages families to give back with its Hill House Outreach Program (HHOP), which donates time and assets to local non-profits that serve women and children in need. For more than a century, Hill House has been providing an inspiring and supportive environment for children and families in downtown Boston. With its array of athletic, creative and intellectual programs, Hill House continues to be a source of hope and opportunity for many.