On May 24, 2000, a tragedy shook me to my core.
Seven people were shot during a robbery at a Wendy’s restaurant in Queens, New York. Five lost their lives, two survived. The robbers stole only a small amount of money, but the losses to those families and that community were immeasurable.
That day, I made a declaration.
As a former Alabama state trooper, an Air Force veteran, and a World Open Speed Chess champion, I realized that we cannot arrest our way out of violence. We must teach young people how to think before they act.
The declaration was this: that going forward I would dedicate my life to helping young people make better decisions, solve problems peacefully, and see opportunities instead of obstacles. That declaration became Be Someone, Inc.
In the ensuing twenty-six years, I’ve traveled across the country and around the world, teaching both children and adults the life-lessons hidden in the game of chess.
Through chess, we at BeSomeone teach critical thinking, emotional control, leadership, responsibility, and nonviolent conflict resolution.
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Our message is simple: Think It Out—Don’t Shoot It Out.
More than 100,000 young people have been impacted by our programs. I have seen students improve their grades, avoid violence, stay out of trouble, and discover a brighter future.
Speed Chess Tournament
The impact of my declaration has been profound—not only in the lives of others but in my own life as well. What began as a response to tragedy became a mission to create hope.
I still stand on that declaration.
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A king, a queen, and a pawn are more powerful than a gun.
Life is chess, not checkers. The moves you make determine the path you take.
About the Author:
Orrin “Checkmate” Hudson is the founder and Chief Educational Officer of
Be Someone, Inc. He has worn many hats: Airforce crew chief; Alabama State Trooper; speed-chess champion; motivational speaker; and teacher of chess and the lessons that come with it. He has won many awards and honors—including the prestigious FBI Distinguished Community Award—and has been a guest on numerous television progams.
A Word on the Frontispiece
This image was created using Gemini_AI and ChatGPT software.
