The DeLand Chess Park in Florida is nearing completion, despite all efforts by cooperating partners. (source) Artist Jill Cannady is painting a vast Chess-themed mural for the park. (source)

South African president Jacob Zuma presented the British Queen with a South African Chess set, only to discover that Nelson Mandela had presented Prince Philip with a nearly identical set 14 years earlier. (source) If only that were his biggest problem.

Obset:

Jacqueline Bardner Smith, who makes items for the Franklin Mint collection, crafted a lovely Alice and Wonderland Chess set.  Check source for picture. (source)