The grand old state of North Carolina, or as the jolly, one-eyed pirate Captain Checkmate likes to call it, "The Land of Checkers and Chess." It stretches from the deep, blue sea, where Captain Checkmate lands his ship, ‘The Knight’s Rook’, to the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains, home to the legendary Chess Yeti. It's a land filled with the sassiest of BBQ sauces, the most twiddly banjo tunes, and the swiftest, cleverest chess players this side of the Mississippi. The kids of North Carolina, known as the "Checkmate Champs," are no ordinary children. Fueled by hushpuppies, sweet tea, and a love for strategy, they spend days immersed in intense battle on the checkered battlefield of chess. From Asheville to Outer Banks, these brainy buccaneers are notorious for their brilliant bishops, ruthless rooks, and naughty knights, ready to strike at any moment. In the coastal city of Wilmington, you'll find Billy "Bishop" Beaufort. With his eyepatch borrowed from Captain Checkmate and a freckle-speckled face, he could checkmate you faster than a seagull swoops on a hotdog. Up in Charlotte, you'll meet Emma "En-Passant" Edwards. She's got ginger pigtails that explode like fireworks and a laugh that could scare a hyena, but her signature move is slicker than a greased pig on a water slide. So, if you ever find yourself in the Tar Heel State, be prepared for a chess duel at every corner. With a twinkle in their eyes and a mischievous grin, these Checkmate Champs are always ready to play. But beware, like Captain Checkmate always says, "In North Carolina, even the squirrels know how to castle."
Read morebest chess programs in Charlotte, NC
Building Character with Martial Arts. The Black Belt Leadership Academy has a rich history that spans more than ten years, during which it has been pivotal in aiding students to sharpen their concentration, bolster their power, and enhance their self-assurance through exceptional martial arts instruction. Our branch in Wauwatosa is a welcoming space that respects and includes students of every kind, regardless of whether they're novices or seasoned martial artists. Each class that we provide is meticulously planned to challenge students at a personal level, while also creating a positive and rewarding ambiance. This individualized approach guarantees that all our students feel recognized and motivated, which leads to a more successful learning journey. At our academy, we're committed to fostering an environment that brings out the best in each student. Our classes aim to not merely impart martial arts techniques but also to instill qualities such as discipline, respect, and resilience. We are firm believers that the values learned at our academy extend beyond the training hall and will benefit our students in all their future pursuits.
At our academy, we pride ourselves on the commitment to our students. Our program is designed to help each individual reach their greatest potential. We strive to create a positive and supportive environment for our students, motivating them to strive for success in all aspects of their life. Our team of experienced instructors and coaches are committed to developing strong, confident individuals.