Old-fashioned picnic and game draws 13 1/2 tables

Our monthly bridge and brunch game held on Sunday, August 11 had Lyde directing 13.5 tables. Lunch was provided by Unit president Neville Kirby - hot dogs, Debby Anthony - a wide array of toppings, Jane Altavilla - potato salad, Joe Truskot - baked beans, Marti Jones - broccoli and apple salad, Kathy Pfitzer - chocolate fudge, and a fantastic plum-filled cake. These special games earn additional funds to help offset our costs.

According to Treasurer Ray Mok, the August Unit Game had a net profit of $1,032 of which $135 were donations.

Masterpoint Awards for North-South: 1st - Glenn Chee and Susan Mazzei, 2nd - Jerry Kapolka and Martha Hawley, 3rd - Debby Anthony and Jean Engvall, 4th - Ed Lange and Joe Truskot, 5th - David Ow and Neville Kirby, 6th - Sharon Larson and Allyson Farrell, 7th - Ann and Ahmad Ahmadi.

Masterpoint Awards for East-West: 1st - Leonard Chriss and Bob Farrell, 2nd - Mano Singham and Bob DuBroff, 3rd - Carol Sendell and Ted Hill, 4th - Candy Garvey and Kathy High, 5th Kurt Schnebele and Arlene Sokol, 6th - Gary Yont and Nancy Oliveira. 

The Monterey Bridge Center is located at 201b Calle del Oaks in Del Rey Oaks; 831-747-1650. The next Bridge and Brunch Unit Game will take place on September 8, 2024. 

Bi-Monthly Team Game Pits Together Some of Our Best Players

Director Alan Hedegard organized the Monterey Bridge Club's Bi-Monthly Team Game on Saturday, July 27, 2024. For many players, the team game is a new experience, for others it's a great way to play bridge but with a different set of rules.

Overall Placement

First: Candy Garvey, Kathy High, Mano Singham, Keith Hedland

Second: Tom and Ewan Eby, Bob and Allyson Farrell

Third: Ron Coffee, Leonard Chris, Tony Muller, Ed Lange

Fourth: Glenn Chee, Gina Brown, Neville Kirby, David Ow

Fifth: Ray and Karen Mok, Bonnie Tragni, Joe Truskot

Sixth: Trulee Ricketts, Maja, Lynne Weatherman, Hetty Eddy

The next team game will be Saturday, September 28, 2024. Join us!

Wednesday Morning Game Holds Special Birthday Party

The members of the regular morning game applauded its director Lyde McReynolds on her birthday (actually the following day 7/25). With great appreciation for her welcoming spirit, knowledge of the game, and ability to share that knowledge with others, ten tables of players celebrated her birthday.  Each Wednesday morning game begins with a short lesson, always covering common areas of misunderstanding.

Wishing Lyde many happy returns of the day. 

July Bridge and Brunch Hulas to Success

The Monterey Bridge Club presented its monthly Unit Game on Sunday, July 14, 2024, with a Hawaian-themed lunch and open game. Club president Neville Kirby thanked the many members who donated a treat-packed luau table. Maja directed the ten tables. According to treasurer Ray Mok, the event netted $758 of which $132 were donations.

North South Masterpoint Winners: 1st - Ed Lange and Joe Truskot, 2nd - Ron Coffee and Leonard Chriss, 3rd - Gina Brown and Neville Kirby, 4th - Kathy Pfitzer and Fran Soskins, and 5th - Ahmad and Ann Ahmadi.

East West Masterpoint Winners: 1st - Helen Rubin and Sam Dodson, 2nd - Mano Singham and Keith Hedlund, 3rd - Kurt Schnebele and Arlene Sekel, and 4th - Marti Jones and Don Fennell.

The Monterey Bridge Center is located at 201B Calle del Oaks, Del Rey Oaks, California with plenty of street parking available. Additional parking is located at the Moose Lodge further down the street. Call 831-747-1650 if you have questions. 

The next Bridge and Brunch game is scheduled for Sunday, August 11, 2024.

Left photo caption: Neville Kirby and Kristin McMurray organize the luau while Ron Coffee fills his plate and Victoria Bell and Bonnie Tragni wait in line. Right photo: Dressed in Hawaiian florals, from left, Ann Ahmadi Joe Truskot, Arlene Sekel, Kurt Schebele, David Ow, Marti Jones and Don Fennell.

Celebrate Independence Day with a Game at the Monterey Bridge Club Unit 530

All games are on this week including Maja's game on the Fourth of July, 2024.

• Monday, 7/1, 10 a.m.: St. John's Chapel, Alan Hedegard directing - OPEN
• Tuesday, 7/2, 10:30 a.m.: Monterey Bridge Club, Doug Halleen directing - OPEN
• Wednesday, 7/3, 10 a.m.: Monterey Bridge Club, Lyde McReynolds directing - 750 master points or less
• Thursday, 7/4, 10:30 a.m.: Monterey Bridge Club, Maja directing - OPEN
• Friday, 7/.5, 10 a.m.: Monterey Bridge Club, Lyde McReynolds directing - 750 master points or less
• Friday, 7/5, 12:30 p.m.: St. Paul's Episcopal, Salinas, Alan Hedegard and Janet Hedlund directing (831-512-7870) - OPEN

St. John's Chapel is located at 1490 Mark Thomas Dr, Monterey, California. The Monterey Bridge Center is at 201B Calle del Oaks, Del Rey Oaks, California - 831-747-1650. Complimentary refreshments are available at the Monterey Bridge Center.

Monterey Unit 530's Annual Meeting Accomplished Much

The Annual Meeting of Unit 530 was held on Sunday, June 9, 2024, at the Monterey Bridge Center. The international-themed potluck brought an array of delicious cuisine from the heritage of our unit members including steak and Guinness pie, egg rolls, Greek salad, Italian sausage and peppers with orecchiette pasta, Iranian stuffed grape leaves, American potato salad, corn salads, date nut bread, banana pudding, chocolate fudge and much more.We are very grateful to the generous individuals who made the lunch so great. Many players said it was the best food we'd ever offered.

Unit President Neville Kirby (pictured above running the meeting) recognized many of the Club's accomplishments during the past year. Kirby called out the top point-getters in all categories and gave special recognition to Ken Gaskins for achieving life master. After a quorum was determined, the attendees voted unanimously to update the Bylaws to include the following language: "Any person determined by the ACBL to be a member of Unit 530 and in good standing may vote in Unit membership meetings;"

Fran Soskins, election committee member, announced the results of the election: Ahmad Ahmadi, Allyson Farrell, and Maja had all received a sufficient number of votes to serve three-year terms on the Unit's Board of Directors beginning in July. Barbara Santry had been appointed to complete the remainder of Rita Sturgeon's term last month. Kirby thanked retiring board members Sharon Larson and Mano Singham for their service and dedication to the Unit.

The Monthly Unit Game was directed by Maja and attracted 11.5 tables. According to Treasurer Ray Mok, the game netted $923 of which $182 were donations.

North South Masterpoint Winners: 1st - TIE Bob Farrell and Leonard Chriss / Joanne Wicker and Candace Garvey, 3rd - Sharon Larson and Allyson Farrell, 4th - Ron Coffee and Ron Loiacono, 5th - Janet Hedlund and Amy Pofcher, 6th - Bonnie Tragni and Bonnie Simon, 7th - Debbie Anthony and Judy Franich.

East West Masterpoint Winners: 1st - Trulee Ricketts and Helen Rubin, 2nd - Barbara Santry and Donna Jett, 3rd - Ed Lange and Joe Truskot, 4th - Lynne Weatherman and Betty Jackson, 5th - Incy Brooks and Lynne Farris, 6th - Diane Duey and Victoria Bell.

The Monterey Bridge Center is located at 201B Calle del Oaks, Del Rey Oaks, California; 831-747-1650. The next Bridge and Brunch game is scheduled for Sunday, July 14, 2024 with Maja directing.

Congratulations to All 

Our sincerest thanks to Ann and Ahmad Ahmadi for presenting a flawless Local Sectional Tournament.

Our gratitude to all sponsors, food donors, and participants. According to Treasurer Ray Mok, the event netted $3,860 which included $2,115 in cash donations. The scores are available in the next news item.

Captions: Left, Open Team Winners - Serena Guo, Jung Hu, Brian Zhang, Qiang Zhang; Center, Organizers Ann and Ahmad Ahmadi; Right, <750 Team Winners - Mano Singham, Gabrielle Fischer, Bob DuBroff, and Marti Jones.

Ahmad Ahmadi, Allyson Farrell, and Maja are Candidates for the Board

The Nominating Committee of the Board of Directors of the Monterey Bridge Club Unit 530 has proposed Allyson Farrell, Maja, and Ahmad Ahmadi to serve three-year terms. Ballots and a secure ballot box are available at the Bridge Center. Additionally, all ACBL members are eligible to vote for these individuals. This year, the nominating committee was composed of Sharon Larson, Bill Breen, and Pat Heller. The election results will be announced at the Annual Meeting on Sunday, June 9, 2024.

Recently, Unit President Neville Kirby appointed Barbara Santry to fill the remaining term of director Rita Sturgeon who resigned. The board thanked Rita for her service and commitment to the Club and wishes her a speedy recovery.

Barbara Santry new Goodwill Chair of Monterey Bridge Club

Recently, Unit President Neville Kirby appointed Barbara Santry to fill the remaining term of director Rita Sturgeon who resigned. The board thanked Rita for her service and commitment to the Club and wished her a speedy recovery. In this position, Barbara will resume the duties of Goodwill chair seeing that donations are thanked and the condolences are sent to the families of long-time Monterey Bridge Club members.

Ten Tables Compete at Cinco de Mayo Game  - Olé

The Monterey Bridge Center's monthly Unit Game took place on Sunday, May 5, 2024, and forty players competed for master points. Lyde McReynolds directed and Ahmad Ahmadi and Kristen McMurray produced a :"muy fantastico" taco bar. Thanks, too, to Jane Altavilla for the great taco fixings, Neville Kirby and Lyde for the decorations, and the many folks who brought sides and dessert.

According to Club Treasurer Ray Mok, the game resulted in a net of $711 which contained $120 in donations. These Unit Games help us to offset the cost of operating the Bridge Center. The Monterey Bridge Center Unit 520 of the American Contract Bridge League.

North South Masterpoint Winners: 1st - Diane Duey and Joe Truskot, 2nd - Ken Gaskins and Neville Kirby, 3rd - Ron Coffee and Ron Loiacono, 4th - Bonnie Simon and Bonnie Tragni, 5th - Mary Ann Pirotte and Jane Altavilla

East West Masterpoint Winners: - 1st - Bob DuBroff and Mano Singham, 2nd - Susie Fugelsang and Sharon Larson, 3rd - Nancy Barucki and Betty Jackson, 4th - Lynne Farris and Incy Brooks, 5th - Kathy Piftzer and Fran Soskins

The next Unit Game will be our Annual Meeting on Sunday, June 0j, 2024. Monterey Bridge Bridge Center is located at 201B Calle del Oaks, Der Rey Oaks, California: 831-747-1650. There's plenty of parking on the street and at the Moose Club at the end of the parking lot. There is a signup sheet at Bridge Center or click here to let us know if you want to attend. Photos: top from left, Lynn Farris, Bonnie Tragni and Incy Brooks; below from left, Sharon Larson, Rita Sturgeon - Fran Soskins - Stephanie Booth, Bob Dubroff - Carol Sendell, and Ted Hill; and food hosts - Ahmad Ahmadi and Kristen McMurray.

Alan Hedegard directs the Monterey Bridge Club Team Game

At game time, two additional teams appeared at the Monterey Bridge Center to compete in the bi-monthly team game. The even number of teams allowed director Alan Hedegard to have winners play winners and losers play losers throughout the game.

The final toll ended up with the following Overall Ranking: 1st - Coffee, Chriss, Loiacono, Muller; 2nd - Chee, Brown, Heller, Pofcher; 3rd - Singham, DuBroff, Farrell, Farrell; 4th - Ricketts, Rubin, Ahmadi, Ahmadi; 5th - Lauderdale, Morris, Santry, Pfitzer; 6th - Truskot, Tragni, Sturgeon, Brooks; 7th - Schnebele, Sekel, Eddy, Wittels'; 8th - Kirby, Ow, Callaway, Weatherman.

Thanks to all who brought refreshments.

The next team game will be part of the Sectional Tournament on Sunday, May 26, 2024.

Photos show the team leaders scoring their results and the game in play.

Long-time Monterey Bridge Club member Joe Norton passed away.

"Joe Norton, my life partner of some 13 years, died Easter Sunday night (March 24, 2024). He had been in assisted living at Forest Hills for about 3 years. We had to stop playing bridge several years ago," noted Stephanie Booth. Joe will be remembered for his serious approach to playing bridge and his wonderful smile when he placed first. 

There will be a Celebration of Life at his home, 26 El Caminito Del Norte, Monterey, on Saturday, June 8, 11 a.m. Joe’s son Jeff Norton, has requested RSVPs to his email address – jeff.norton58@gmail.com and the family welcomes all who once played bridge with him.

April Unit Game Nets $1,000 from Thirteen Tables 

Thirteen tables of players turned out for the Monterey Bridge Club Unit 530's April in Paris theme Unit Game.on Sunday, April 14, 2024. Doug Halleen directed this Unit Championship Game. Many thanks to Kristen McMurray for organizing the lunch and providing the baguette sandwiches, Neville Kirby for decorating the table, and several members for providing a variety of delicious salads and desserts.

Treasurer Ray Mok reported that the game produced a profit of $1,000, $186 of which were donations. These games help offset the operating costs of the Bridge Center.

North-South Point Getters: 1st - Jay Armstrong and Peter De Gregorio, 2nd - Jerry Kapolka and Helen Rubin, 3rd - Ray and Karen Mok, 4th - Tom and Ewan Eby, 5th - Ron Loiacono and Ron Coffee, 6th - Rita Sturgeon and David Ow, 7th - Amy Pofcher and Janet Hedlund, 8th - Marian Carapezza and Jane Altavilla

East-West Point Getters: 1st - Nancy Borucki and Betty Jackson, 2nd - Glenn Chee and Gina Brown, 3rd - Celeste Falor and Sharon Larson, 4th - Bill Breen and Kristen McMurray, 5th - Carol Sendell and Ted Hill, 6th - Ann and Ahmad Ahmadi.

The next Unit Game is scheduled for May 19, 2024

The Monterey Bridge Club is located at 201B Calle del Oaks, Del Rey Oaks, California. It is an affiliated member of the American Contract Bridge League, District 21. There is plenty of street parking near the Center and additional parking at the Moose Club further down the lot. Questions: 831-747-1650.

Painting by Alan Larkin.

Duterme and Solow Dazzle with 78% Game

The Monterey Bridge Club offered its March Unit Game on Sunday, March 10, 2024, and drew 16.5 tables. Neville Kirby and Kristen McMurray presented corned beef sandwiches and all the fixings. Thanks go to the many folks who brought salads, sides, and desserts. Don Fennell's black cherry cheesecake was gone before anyone knew there was black cherry cheesecake. Lyde directed the game.

According to Club Treasurer Ray Mok, the game netted $1,326 which included $187 in donations. These funds help to offset our monthly operating costs.  

A highlight of the game was the incredible performance by Philip Duterme and Daniel Solow who achieved an 80% game. Congratulations to them for some mighty fine bridge playing.

Master Point Winners North-South: Ist - Maja and Sharon Larson, 2nd - David Ow and Neville Kirby, 3rd - Doug Halleen and Denis Vanmiddlesworth, 4th - Pat Heller and Kathy Gray, 5th - Rita Sturgeon and Kathy Pfitzer, 6th - Debbie Anthony and Janet Hedlund, 6th - Jane Altavilla and Barbara Santry, 7th - Bonnie Tragni and Bonnie Simon, 8th - Bill Breen and Kristen McMurray

Master Point Winners East-West: 1st - Philip Duterme and Daniel Solow, 2nd - Mano Singham and Bob DuBroff, 3rd - Ron Loiacono and Leonard Chriss, 4th - Ed Lange and Joe Truskot, 5th - Ewan and Tom Eby, 6th - Incy Brooks and Lynn Farris, 7th - Helen Rubin and Trulee Ricketts, 8th - Lynne Weatherman and Sam Calloway

The next Unit Game will take place on Sunday, April 14, 2024. The Monterey Bridge Club is located at 201B Calle del Oaks, Del Rey Oaks, California. It is an affiliated member of the American Contract Bridge League, District 21. There is plenty of street parking near the Center and additional parking at the Moose Club further down the lot. Questions: 831-747-1650.

Team Game Brings Out Ten Tables of Competitors

On Saturday, February 24, 2024, the Monterey Bridge Club presented its first team game of the year. Alan Hedegard directed the game and provided a brief explanation of the differences in scoring and play strategies.

Many thanks to Glenn Chee for being an enthusiastic team game supporter and encouraging the Monterey Bridge Center to offer different opportunities to play bridge. Thanks, Glenn, too, for providing a tray of delicious croissant sandwiches as a snack and for Neville for making sure the refreshment table was well stocked and attractive..

Teams members and results are as follows: team game 20240224.pdf

Alan Hedegard becomes Local Sectional Game Director

Starting in 2023, the ACBL introduced a new kind of sectional tournament, the Local Sectional. These sectionals award partial silver points, but the unit can use a specially certified club director or tournament assistant (a Local Director) instead of a regular tournament director.

Local Sectionals have to be directed by a part-time ACBL Director or a Local Sectional Director. To be a Local Sectional Director participants need to be already a Club Director or Tournament Assistant and be certified in this new position. The position requires knowledge and performance higher than what is required at the club director level. Certification courses are organized regularly throughout the United States and Canada.

Alan, a long-time Monterey Bay Bridge Club game director, recently passed the course and can now present Local Sectional Games. He currently directs face-to-face games on Mondays, 10 a.m. at St. John's Chapel, Monterey and Fridays, 12:30 a.m. at St. Paul's Episcopal Church, Salinas as well as several online games.

PLAY BRIDGE EVERY DAY

Congratulations Sharon!

Monterey Bridge Center board member Sharon Larson recently attended the ACBL Best Practices Workshop in Sacramento. The course has one goal: to advance teaching practices to better motivate and enable students to play bridge. The course required participants to devise a lesson. Sharon taught her fellow classmates all about taking finesses.

The instructors included several national leaders in the field of bridge education. Sharon will soon be sharing the techniques she learned with club members. 

Thanks, Sharon, for attending.

Bridge with a Bowl of Chili Draws 13 Tables

The Monterey Bridge Club presented its monthly Bridge and Brunch Game on Sunday, February 18, 2024 and had 13 participating tables. The delicious meat and vegetarian chilis by Ann and Ahmad Ahmadi drew rave reviews as did their homemade bread. Thanks to Doug for directing the game and to the many members who brought salads and desserts. 

According to Ray Mok, Club Treasurer, the game netted $911 of which $42 were donations. These monthly Unit Games have helped the Monterey Bridge Club to be financially stable.

Master Point Winners North-South: 1st - Marti Jones and Gabrielle Fischer, 2nd - Tom and Ewan Eby, 3rd - Ed Lange and Joe Truskot, 4th - Ron Loiacono and Leonard Chriss, 5th - Ray and Karen Mok, 6th - Neville Kirby and Lynne Weatherman

Master Point Winners East-West: 1st - Allyson Farrell and Keith Hedlund, 2nd - Maja and Jim Lauderdale, 3rd - Sharon Larson and Incy Brooks, 4th - Nancy Borucki and Helen Rubin, 5th -  Joel and Charlene Reimnitz, 6th Carol Marquart - Claudia Vierneisel, 7th - Rita Sturgeon and Steve Green

The next Sunday Bridge and Brunch Unit Game will take place on March 10, 2024 with Lyde McReynolds directing. A signup sheet is posted at the Bridge Center. If you'd like to attend, sign up here. These monthly games help us generate the funds we need to keep the Bridge Center functioning.

The Monterey Bridge Center is located at 201B Calle del Oaks, Del Rey Oaks, California. The Monterey Bridge Club is affiliated with the American Contract Bridge League, District 21. For information, call us at 831-747-1650.

Monterey Bridge Center Improves Its Lights

No longer can bridge players attribute their mistakes to dim, flickering, or nonexistent overhead lights. For years, directors often pumped the switches to get the old fluorescent lights and their ballasts to warm up. All that has now changed.

Former building professionals and club members Pat Canada and Janet Kanstrup spent two days converting all of the overhead lights at the Bridge Center from fluorescent to LED bulbs. We can't thank them enough for taking the leadership in this elemental requirement of good bridge -- being able to see the cards more clearly!

Bridge Club treasurer Ray Mok worked out the long-range benefits the Club expoects from more efficient lighting. The cost of this upgrade should pay for itself in a matter of months in the savings we'll get from lower electricity bills.

Bridge and Brunch format for Unit Games Continues to be Popular

On Sunday, January 14, 2024, the Monterey Bridge Club hosted a unit game directed by Maja. The lasagna fest was sponsored by Mano Singham, Sharon Larson, Neville Kirby, and Joe Truskot. Thanks to all who brought salads, sides, garlic bread, and desserts. Thanks so much for your help.

According to Treasurer Ray Mok, we had 9 ½ tables resulting in a net of $688.50 which included $72 in donations. This income is greatly appreciated as the Monterey Bridge Center did not offer any games during the Regional Tournament held the first week of January.

Top point winners North South: 1st - Philip Duterme and Daniel Solow, 2nd - David Ow and Pat Heller, 3rd - Bob and Allyson Farrell, 4th - Ron Loiacono and Leonard Chriss, 5th - Stephanie Booth and Fran Soskins

Top point winners East West: 1st - Maja and Ahmad Ahmadi, 2nd - Martha Hawley and Gerry Kapolka, 3rd - Helen Rubin and Trulee Ricketts, 4th - Ed Lange and Joe Truskot, 5th Incy Brooks and Sharon Larson, 6th - Mano Singham and Gabrille Fischer, 7th - Bill Breen and Kristen McMurray.

The next Bridge and Brunch Unit Game will take place on Sunday, Februay 18, 2024 with Doug Halleen directing.

The Monterey Bridge Center is located at 201B Calle Del Oaks, Del Rey Oaks CA 93940; 831-747-1650. We are Unit 530 of District 21 of the American Contract Bridge League.

Unit 530 Results from the 2024 Monterey Regional Clambake

Congratulations to the Unit 530 players who scored master points at the tournament.

Pictured are one of our great teams, from left Andi Carr, Ken Gaskins, Mo Wittels, and Sharon Larson.

Click here for the complete list of attendees. Clambake 530 Masterpoints.pdf

Thank you to our Monterey Bridge Club volunteers

ACBL surveyed the attendees at the 2024 Monterey Regional Clambake. Bridge Club board member Kristin McMurray and her hospitality desk team earned the top rating.

The following individuals volunteered at the 2024 Monterey Regional Clambake: Ann and Ahmad Ahmadi, Debbie Anthony, Louise Barnard, Charles Beren, Bill Breen, Judy Franich, Neville Kirby, Sharon Larson, Trulee Ricketts, Mano Singham, and Lynne Weatherman.

Great job, Kristen!

Happy New Year from Unit 530

Sunday, December 31, 2023

The Monterey Bridge Club members gathered at the Bridge Center to say goodbye to one year and hello to the next. Lyde McReynolds directed the 14-table event and coordinated the Chinese food buffet. The event included a social hour, bridge, dinner, and champagne toast. Richard Sheere led a chorus of Auld Lang Syne. Bridge Club Revelers: Front row - Janet Hedlund, Louise Barnard, Linda Miller, Candy Garvey, Richard Sheere; Middle Row - Donna Jett, Lyde McReynolds, Pam Sands, Pat Canada, Arlene Sekel, Barbara Santry, Allyson Farrell; Back row - Susan Mehra, Wolf Sommer (hiding), Robert Farrell, Joe Truskot, Dee Alexander, Kathy High, Ray Mok, Rob Williams, Barbara Hake, Annemarie Von Adelung, Amy Pofcher, Kathy Pitzer, Karen Mok, Kurt Schnebele, Carol Sedell, Mano Singham, Gabrielle Fischer, Hong Hai Dubroff, Ted Hill, Helga Greaver, Cindy Kirk, Suzanne Klein, Bob Dubroff, Carol Marquart, and Curt Hussey.

Top Point Winners North and South: 1st - Dawna Wilson and Rob Williams, 2nd - Allyson Farrell and Hung Hai Dubroff, 3rd - Ray and Karen Mok, 4th - Pam Sands and Dee Alexander, 5th - Curt Hussey and Karin Evans, 6th - Barbara Hake and Annemarie Von Adelung, 7th - Don Fennell and Kathy Pitzer.

Top Point Winners East and West: 1st - Mano Singham and Bob Dubroff, 2nd - Leon Heller and Gabrielle Fischer, 3rd - Donna Jett and Joe Truskot, 4th: Leonard Chriss and Robert Farrell, 5th - Kurt Schnebele and Arlene Sekel, 6th - Susan Mehra and Louise Barnard.

Regular weekly games will begin again on Monday, January 8, 2024. Please attend the District 21 Regional Tournament at the Monterey Hyatt with games at all levels from Monday, January 1 to Sunday, January 7 2024.

The Monterey Bridge Center, ACBL Unit 530, is located at 201B Calle del Oaks, Del Rey Oaks, California: 831-747-1650.

Playing Cards Arrive At County Correctional Facilities - UPDATE

During the summer, a brown paper bag at the Monterey Bridge Center was filled up with multiple decks of playing cards. Some were used but in good condition and others were brand new — still in their original packages. The cards were headed toward the incarcerated people at Monterey County correctional facilities. Don Graham,. a long-time and enthusiastic member of Unit 530, began this effort with a dual purpose: to recycle usable goods and to bring joy into the lives of inmates. Club members responded well resulting in more than four hundred decks of cards being left at the Monterey Bridge Center.

Trent Allen, warden of the Salinas Valley State Prison located in Soledad welcomes help from the community. Keeping inmates occupied in positive activities that challenge their minds, he said, benefits everyone.

On Wednesday, July 26, 2023, twenty-four brand new decks of playing cards were dropped off at Monterey County Juvenile Hall in Salinas. The guard who came out of the secure facility was beaming with appreciation for this unanticipated and helpful contribution. Nearly 200 decks were dropped off at the Monterey County Jail a few days later. On Wednesday, September 20, Joe Truskot, a member of the 2023-24 Civil Grand Jury, visited the Monterey County Jail on the annual tour. Truskot witnessed in just one dorm that seven tables of incarcerated people were playing cards, many with the characteristic ACBL back visible in the photograph. The inmates had torn each of their old cards into eight pieces and were using them as poker chips.

The remaining 200 cards, puzzles, and games were delivered on September 28 to Lieutenant Wesley Fonseca, Public Information Officer at the Salinas Valley State Prison in Soledad. "We can place the jigsaw puzzles in the conjugal units for the inmates and their families."

We may have to repeat this drive as we all know how long a deck of cards lasts. So another brown paper bag may arrive at the Center for members to fill up in January..

Juvenile Hall would also welcome youth-appropriate books, board games, and jigsaw puzzles. Please help out with this effort.

More Room at the Monterey Bridge Center

On the hottest day of the year, Unit 530 volunteers moved the extra tables and chairs stored in the back of the Bridge Center to a storage unit in Marina owned by former board member Ed Schrenzel. We hadn't used these chairs and tables since we left the old center. The extra space should give us less crowded and therefore safer movement around tables for our regular games.

A huge thank you to Ed Schrenzel for use of his storage unit and to David Ow for hauling the tables and chairs in his van and trailer and for the able help of his grandson. The moving crew and Bridge Center re-set group also lent some additional sweat to the effort. Thank you Glenn Chou, Mano Singham, Ed Lange, Maja, Neville Kirby and Joe Truskot for your help on Thursday, October 5, 2023. Photo from left: Joe Truskot, Glenn Chee, Neville Kirkby, David Ow, and Ed Schrenzel.

Holiday Unit Game and Potluck Draws 14 Tables

Our December 10, 2023 Unit Game and Annual Holiday Party coincided with the National STaC week. Winners of Gold, Silver, Red, and Black Points are listed below. Thanks to Marti Jones for the delicious sliced ham. The decorating committee of Rita Sturgeon, Carol Sendell, Lynne Weatherman, Jane Altavilla, and Neville Kirby made the Monterey Bridge Center sparkle with holiday spirit. Thanks to the many potluck donors for another great showing of really tasty food.

Our Treasurer Ray Mok reported that we had a net profit of $1,216 of which $320 were cash donations. In addition, the Silent Auction of 23 items made more than $2,000. An exact number is still being calculated.

Point Winners North/South: 1st - Ron Coffee and Ron Loiacono, 2nd - Marti Jones and Judith Murdock, 3rd - Susan Mazzei and Pat Heller, 4th - Janet Hedland and Amy Pofcher, 5th - Donna Jett and Barbara Santry, 6th - Diane Duey and Shirley Smith, 7th - Bonnie Tragni and Joe Truskot

Point Winners East/West: 1st - Tom and Ewan Eby, 2nd - Trulee Ricketts and Helen Rubin, 3rd: Chris Boncich and Ed Lange, 4th - Don Fennell and Jim Lauderdale, 5th - Neville Kirkby and David Ow, 6th - Kurt Schnebele and Arlene Seckel, 7th - Hetty Eddy and P.I. Reysner.

The Monterey Bridge Club is located at 201B Calle del Oaks, Del Rey Oaks, California, 93940: Telephone 831-747-1650.

Happy Holidays!

STEINBECK FRIDAY TEAM GAME

10/20/2023 - Friday Afternoon
MP Limits: None/500/300
Rating: Club Appreciation Team (Gold)
Table Count: 5 Teams

Team #    Team Members                                                           Black / Gold points won   

Debeliah Anthony, Mary Bourne, Maria Gussner, Alan Hedegard    2.14 Black | 0.11 Gold
Ed Schrenzel, Neville Kirby, Carol Sendell, David Ow                    1.61 Black | 0.08 Gold
Pat Heller, Susan Mazzei, Glenn Chee, Gina Brown                       0.44 Black | 0.02 Gold
Peter De Gregorio, Amy Pofcher, Steve Green, Anjalie Kulkarni      0.22 Black | 0.01 Gold
Janet Street, Sylvia Teixeira, Janet Hedlund, George Mills              0.44 Black | 0.02 Gold

November Unit Game delivers delicious food, challenging hands

On Sunday, November 12, 2023, the Monterey Bridge Club had 12.5 tables of players for its monthly bridge and brunch game. The traditional Thanksgiving menu was among the tastiest of all time. Thank you to so many people who brought the food that made the event so much fun and thanks again to our game director Doug Halleen. Treasurer Ray Mok reported that the net proceeds for the event was $921 which included $92 in donations.

Masterpoint Winners:North/South: 1st - P.I. Reysner and Hetty Eddy, 2nd - Allyson Farrel and Leonard Chriss, 3rd - Helen Rubin and Trulee Ricketts, 4th - Ray and Karen Mok, 5th - Gerry Williams and John Mahoney, 6th - Joe Truskot and Kathy Pfitzer

Masterpoint Winners East/West: 1st - Robert Farrel and Peter DeGregorio (pictured below left), 2nd - Sharon Larson and Maja, 3rd - Sharyn Siebert and Judith Ritchie, 4th - 4th David Ow and Rita Sturgeon, 5th - Marti Jones and Judith Murdock, 6th - Lynne Weatherman and Sam Callaway

Our next Unit Game is our Holiday Pot Luck on Sunday, December 10, 2023. A sign-up sheet is posted at the Bridge Center as well as a form to indicate what you will bring. If you would like to have your name added to this list, please click here and we will sign you up.

The Monterey Bridge Center is located at 201B Calle del Oaks, Del Rey Oaks, California; 831-747-1650.

Kudos to Alan Hedegard for Organizing and Directing 

For the first time in at least five years, the Monterey Bridge Center Unit 530 offered a Team Game for its members. The game took place on Saturday, October 21, 2023. Seven teams of four participated in the event. Alan Hedegard organized and directed it. He also provided several strategies that helped players know the differences between team game scoring and that done in duplicate bridge.

We also appreciated the delicious snacks players brought to the event.

Let us know if you'd like us to offer another team game in the future.

Bridge and Brunch - Sunday, October 8 - Breaks the Heat

Monterey Bridge Club Unit 530 held its monthly Unit Game on Sunday, October 8, 2023. Lunch began at noon with Bob Dubroff's Pasta Bolognaise, David Ow's home-grown sliced tomatoes with basil and mozzarella, several delicious green salads, antipasti, and a terrific array of desserts including a Tuxedo Cake brought by Marti Jones and still-warm banana bread from the Ahmadis. 

North South Masterpoint winners were: 1st - Sharon Larson and Leonard Criss, 2nd - Incy Brooks and Lynn Farris, 3rd - Glenn Chee and Susan Mazzei, 4th - Carol Sendell and Ted Hill.

East West Masterpoint winners were: 1st - Mano Singham and Bob Dubroff, 2nd - Jim Lauderdale and Stephanie Booth, 3rd - Pat Heller and Kathy Pfitzer, 4th - Ann and Ahmad Ahmadi

These monthly Unit Games bring all members of the Monterey Bridge Club together, foster a fun environment for face-to-face duplicate bridge, and help us attract new players. As mentioned above, the net proceeds are vital in reducing the size of our monthly deficit. We also appreciate donations.

The Monterey Bridge Center is located at 201B Calle del Oaks, Del Rey Oaks, California. Questions? Call 831-747-1650.

The next Bridge and Brunch Game is Sunday, November 12, 2023 and Doug Halleen will direct. We hope to see you there, if not before.

Gold and Red Point winners at the Unit North American Pairs two-session game held in Salinas by Janet Hedlund and Alan Hedegard on the first two Fridays in November were:

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  Mentor-Novice Game
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  Mentor-Novice Game
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  Mentor-Novice Game
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  Mentor-Novice Game
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  Mentor-Novice Game
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  Mentor-Novice Game
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  Mentor-Novice Game
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  Mentor-Novice Game
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  Mentor-Novice Game
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  Mentor-Novice Game
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  Mentor-Novice Game
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  Mentor-Novice Game
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  Mentor-Novice Game
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  Mentor-Novice Game
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  Student-Mentor Game

Bridge Educators Hetty Eddy and Lyde McReynolds Present New Education Program - UPDATE

On Saturday, August 26 and September 23, 2023, the Monterey Bridge Club presented hands-on education programs to enhance newer players' skills. Hetty and Lyde devised an invitation-only game pairing students with intermediate-level players. Their effort resulted in high-spirited, duplicate games. Students picked their mentors and table assignments from a hat.

For several years, certified bridge educator Hetty Eddy has offered classes for beginning bridge players and players returning to the game after a long absence. This program purposely creates a comfort level in which players are free to bend a few rules while learning the game. Eventually, all students grow beyond the beginning level and need to take on new challenges. Thus, this new mentor-pairing game was created. It was a fully ACBL-recognized competitive duplicate game. Board members of Unit 530 have long discussed the need to expand the types of bridge games the Club offers. This game devised by Hetty and Lyde, has helped the Club achieve this objective.

Support for these games was provided by the Monterey Bridge Educational Foundation, a non-profit organization, and $327 in donations were accepted at the games.

August North-South point winners were: 1st - Ray Mok and Karen Belding, 2nd - Sam Callaway and Lynn Simmons, 3rd - Ann Wyatt and Peter Armburst, 4th - Don Graham and Karol Matheson.

August East-West point winners were: 1st - Joe Truskot and Pat Canada, 2nd - Don Fennell and Keith Dodson, 3rd - Barbara Santry and Kerry Meyers.

September North-South point winners were: Ist - Karen Mok and Julie Beckk, 2nd - Fran Soskins and Lynne Simmons

September East-West point winners were: 1st - Don Fennell and Keith Dodson, 2nd - Ray Mok and Peter Armbruster, 3rd - Neville Kirby and Lisa Osheskie

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  Don Fennell, Donna Jett, Kathy Pfitzer
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  Curt Hussey
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  Amy Pofcher, Marti Jones, Jane Altavilla
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  September Bridge and Brunch
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  Quiches Galore
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  September Bridge and Brunch
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  Ann Ahmadi, Lyde McReynolds, Ahmad Ahmadi
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  Keith Hedlund and Stephanie Booth
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  Sharon Larson
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  September Bridge and Brunch
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  September Bridge and Brunch
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  Joe Truskot

Fifty-Eight Players Turned Out for September's Bridge and Brunch Open Game

On Sunday, September 10, 2023, the Monterey Bridge Club offered its monthly open Bridge and Brunch game and 58 club members showed up to enjoy quiches, salads, and scrumptious desserts. Lyde McReynolds, longtime bridge teacher, and Gold Life Master, directed the game.

A highlight of the game was Unit 503 President Neville Kirby (left) recognizing Incy Brooks (right) for achieving Life Master status. This important milestone happened at last week's Santa Clara Regional Tournament.

Treasurer Ray Mok reported that the game netted $1,092 including $107 in donations. These monthly Unit Games bring all members of the Monterey Bridge Club together and foster a fun environment for face-to-face duplicate bridge. The net proceeds are vital in reducing the size of our monthly deficit. We also appreciate donations.

North South Masterpoint winners were: 1st -  Helen Rubin and Trulee Ricketss, 2nd - Glenn Chee and Susan Mazzei, 3rd - Amy Pofcher and Janet Hedlund, 4th - Ken Gaskins and Neville Kirby, 5th - Fran Soskins and Rita Sturgeon, 6th - Maja and Sharon Larson, 7th - Mano Singham and Kurt Hussey, 8th - Kristen McMurray and Bill Breen

East West Masterpoint winners were: 1st - Sam Dodson and Philip Duterme, 2nd - Doug Halleen and Maureen Wittels, 3rd - Kurt Schnebele and Arlene Sekel, 4th - Candace Garvey and Keith Hedlund, 5th - Nancy Barucki and Betty Jackson, 6th Ann and Ahmad Ahmadi, 7th - Linda Gibson and Roy Shanker, 8th -  Lynne Weatherman and Sam Callaway

The Next Bridge and Brunch will take place on Sunday, October 8, 2023. All bridge players are welcome.

The Monterey Bridge Center is located at 201B Calle del Oaks, Del Rey Oaks, California. Questions? Call 831-747-1650.

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  July Bridge and Brunch
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  July Bridge and Brunch
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  July Bridge and Brunch
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  July Bridge and Brunch
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  Friday, July 7, Game: Jim Lauderdale
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  Friday, July 7, Game: Jim and Don

July's Bridge and Brunch Game - 15 Tables Competed

On Sunday, July 9, fifteen tables of players celebrated summertime with an old-fashioned picnic theme: hot dogs from Neville Kirby, beans from Kristen McMurray, potato salad from Jane Altavilla, and much, much more. Players also brought appetizers, salads and desserts. According to Monterey Bridge Club Treasurer Ray Mok, the event netted $1,273 which included $246 in donations. These positive figures help us reduce our monthly deficit. Thank you.

Masterpoint winners for North-South were: 1st - Sharon Larson and Leonard Chriss, 2nd - Tom and Ewan Eby, 3rd - Mano Singham and Bob Dubroff, 4th - Rita Sturgeon and Glenn Chee, 5th - Ron Coffee and Ron Loiacono, 6th - Doug Halleen and Maureen Wittels, 7th - Jay Armstrong and Allyson Farrell, 8th - Carol Sendell and Ted Hill, 9th - Joe Truskot and Ed Lange.

Masterpoint winners for East-West were: 1st - Martha Hawley and Gerry Kapolka, 2nd - Sam Dodson and Mary Ann Cotham, 3rd - Nancy Barocki and Betty Jackson, 4th - Sam Callaway and Lynne Weatherman, 5th - Trulee Ricketts and Helen Rubin, 6th - Joanne Wicker and Vinny McLoughlin, 7th - Bill Breen and Kristen McMurray, 8th - Jim Lauderdale and Don Fennell.

These monthly Unit Games bring all members of the Monterey Bridge Club together and foster a fun environment for face-to-face duplicate bridge.

The Monterey Bridge Center is located at 201B Calle del Oaks, Del Rey Oaks, California. Questions? Call 831-747-1650. The next Bridge and Brunch Game is Sunday, August 13, 2023.

Three Candidates Hope to Fill Three Positions on the Monterey Bridge Club's Board of Directors

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Kristen McMurray: Served as hospitality chair for the Unit. Oversees Bridge and Brunch food donations. Filled in as secretary. Completed the remainder of a vacated term.

Ray Mok: Served as treasurer of the Unit. Manages and reports on the Bridge Center financial operations and lease terms. Completed his first three-year term.

Joe Truskot: Served as membership chair for the Unit and manages the website. Completed his first three-year term.

Pat Heller and Fran Soskins serve as the Election Committee and will announce the election results at the Annual Meeting Bridge and Brunch Potluck, Sunday, June 11, 2023. They will make certain that each ballot unique.Electronic ballots have been sent out. Manual ballots will be available at the Bridge Center. All members are encourage to vote. In addition, any member who wishes to write-in a name may do so. If the names are unchecked and the ballot is received, this ballot will count as a vote for the three named candidates. This process isn't 100% anonymous but will provide some secrecy.

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  Biggest Group in Ages
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  Ready for the next round
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  Chatting with friends
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  Group players
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  Stu Goodgold, ACBL board member
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  Welcome from Lyde and Sharon
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  Treasurer Report
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  Election Results
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  Eleonore Gutierrez
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  Rita Sturgeon
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  Neville Kirby
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  Fran Soskins
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  David Ow
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  Glenn Chee
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  Ewan Eby
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  Tom Eby
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  Alan Hedegard
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  Helen Rubin
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  Betty Jackson
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  Thank you Sharon
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  Exhausted director

On Sunday, June 11 our Annual Meeting, Open Game and Lunch drew a record 17 tables!

The Monterey Bridge Club, Unit 530 hosted its monthly Bridge and Brunch Game on Sunday, June 11, 2023 with lunch including Jumbalaya by Don Fennel, Meatballs by Sharon Larson, Persian Eggplant Dip by Ahmad Ahmadi, Italian Sausage by Joe Truskot, plus a potluck array of salads, sides, appetizers and great desserts. Thanks to all who brought things to share. Lyde McReynolds directed the game and had to recruit herself and Alan Hedegard to fill in for two no shows. According to treasurer Ray Mok, "After deducting the director fee and other expenses, we netted $1,384 as profit, a one-game record."

In addition, Club President Sharon Larson chaired the brief Annual Meeting and distributed the awards to top master point winners. She also recognized Susan Mazzei (absent) and David Ow for becoming life masters. Glenn Chee paid a warm tribute to David Ow for his persistence in achieving Life Master status. Treasurer Ray Mok detailed the financial status of the Monterey Bridge Club. Election Committee Co-chair Fran Soskins announced that Kristen McMurray, Ray Mok, and Joe Truskot were elected by the members to serve three year terms on the board of directors.

Top Master Point Winners

North - South: 1st: Sharon Larson - Ron Loiacono, 2nd: Stu Goodgold - Joanne Wicker, 3rd: Marti Jones - Farol Henderson, 4th: Ed Schrenzel - Diane Duey, 5th: Sam Dodson - Helen Rubin, 6th: Bill Breen - Kristen McMurray, 7th: Hong Hai Dubroff - Mo Wittels, 8th: Barbara Santry - Ellin Wilson, 9th: Sam Callaway - Lynne Weatherman.

East - West: 1st: Glenn Chee - Gina Brown, 2nd: Ed Lange - Joe Truskot, 3rd: Nancy Borucki - Betty Jackson, 4th: Wolf Sommer - Edee Heiser, 5th: Tom and Ewan Eby, 6th: Charles Olvis - Miranda Morris, 7th: Helga Greaver - Claudia Vierneisel.

Special thanks to Bill Breen for the excellent award photos.

The Monterey Bridge Center is located at 201B Calle del Oaks, Del Rey Oaks, California. Phone: 831-747-1650. Please park in the designated spaces, at the Moose Club, or on the street.

Next Unit Game: Sunday, July 9, 2023.

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  Susan and Barbara vs Tom and Ewan
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  Rita and David vs Shirley and Diane
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  Food Line at Bridge and Brunch
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  Food Line at Bridge and Brunch
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  Hong Hai\'s Almond Cake
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  David\'s Appetizer
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  Rita, Neville and Sharon
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  Rita\'s First Portrait Painting

Bridge and Brunch Draws Happy Crowd Sunday, August 13, 2023

The Monterey Bridge Club Unit 530 held its Sunday, August 13 game with open windows and a cool breeze blowing. Lunch included chicken Caesar salad (Sharon Larson), pecan/spinach salad (Neville Kirby), mac and cheese (Rita Sturgeon), citrus/melon salad (Louise Barnard), corn relish (Allison Farrell), stuffed pimiento appetizer (David Ow), almond cake (Hong Hai Dubroff), chocolate fudge (Kathy Piftzer) Doug Halleen directed.

According to Unit 530 treasurer Ray Mok, the game had 12 tables of players and $35 in donations netting $827.

North/South Point Winners: 1st - Tom and Ewan Eby, 2nd - Gerry Kapolka and Trulee Ricketts, 3rd - Neville Kirby and Ed Schrenzel, 4th - Hong Hai Dubroff and Allison Farrell, 5th - Ray and Karen Mok, 6th - Ed Lange and Joe Truskot.

East/West Point Winners: 1st - Sam Dodson and Helen Rubin, 2nd - Ken Johnson and Joanne Wicker, 3rd - Nancy Borucki and Betty Jackson, 4th - Ahmad and Ann Ahmadi, 5th - Candy Garvey and Kathy High, 6th - Louise Barnard and Susan Mehra.

These Monthly Unit Games have become a very popular and necessary part of the Monterey Bridge Club as they offset our monthly operating loss. July 2023 was so successful that we ended the month in the black.

The Monterey Bridge Club is located at 201B Calle del Oaks, Del Rey Oaks, California. Contact us at 831-747-1650.

The Next Bridge and Brunch Unit Game is scheduled for Sunday, September 10, 2023

Championship Bridge with Charles Goren

Enjoy a contract bridge program from the early1960s featuring Charles Goren on YouTube. The announcer is Alex Dreier, clearly a former sports announcer on radio.His comments are often corny. Game standards have evolved but there's information that's good to learn.There are many other episodes from this series available on YouTube.

WARNING: Language is dated and often offensive.

Just click the link below the name and it should take you to the TV Program called Championship Bridge on YoutTube.Th

Featured Programs

Here's one with Sam Stayman, (Yes, him!):

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8sdKRslTqyw

Here's one with Chico Marx, (Yes, him!).

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hyk-N6CTJBU&list=PLPPtSW0U4hda-oVDGMGm7OzGr50cIAwUu

Here's one with Peter Leaventritt. (Yes, him!)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=anJ_k2Q0HOE&list=PLPPtSW0U4hda-oVDGMGm7OzGr50cIAwUu&index=12

Here's one with John Gerber (Yes, him!)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hgjOLiAbN5w&list=PLPPtSW0U4hda-oVDGMGm7OzGr50cIAwUu&index=2

Lyde McReynolds is the 2022 District 21 Goodwill Ambassador

Upon the unanimous vote of the Goodwill Ambassador Committee of District 21 of the American Contract Bridge League, Lyde McReynolds became its Goodwill Ambassador of the Year.

Monterey Club president Sharon Larson announced this recognition at the Bridge and Brunch Unit Game, held Sunday, November 13, 2022. The application was written by Amy Pofcher who read part of the rationale our club used to secure this important award. The Official Presentation will take place at the Clambake Regional games in January 2023. Congratulations Lyde!

As you may know, goodwill is essential in expanding the number of bridge players throughout the world and sharing the love we have for the game. Lyde's effort over the years to engage players in good bridge practices and helping us all to acquire new skills is greatly appreciated.

We also can't thank enough yesterday's Brunch Pros: Neville, Jane, Stephanie, Sharon, Maja, and all the others who brought appetizers and those incredible desserts. Oh yes ... and we thank Lyde for organizing the seating and directing the game. We would like to post several photos of the November 13 event taken by players. Please submit any pictures you have to: jtruskot@comcast.net so we can share them with those who couldn't attend.

Mark Your Calendars

The next Bridge and Brunch Unit Game is set for Sunday, December 11, 2022. Lyde will also hold a special Holiday game on Wednesday, December 21 and her traditional New Year's Eve game on Saturday, December 31. Details will follow.

Congratulations Lyde

No ONE COULD EVER BE MORE DESERVING!!!!

Congratulations Lyde!!

What a great turn out to celebrate you and the wonderful news of your huge award! You'll always be the best teacher ever!!! I use to have a feeling of excitement for our Friday lessons. Thank you for creating a "family" for me away from the table. Most of my dearest friends were/are from our trips to the Dunes. Those "plays" you wrote were great fun and my "child" always had a ball! Your homemade cookies are the best as are the root beer floats! I appreciate you more than you could imagine.You were always thinking of how to make something special for all of us...AND you did!!

Sending love and a big hug.

Betty Jackson

 

Congratulations Lyde, I received the Award in 2017 and Winners are invited to the Regional’s. The  Nationals usually have a dinner or cocktail event which the Goodwill recipients are to attend. I attended the San Diego event.

Long overdue for Lyde, what she conttributed to bridge is incredible. Pat Thomas received the award and not sure who else from our club.

Donna Jett

 

Thanks for sharing. I am sorry I missed that event. She certainly deserves it!
Best  regards. 
James Dergin

NEW ACBL RULES

We can no longer just use the word "transfer." We now must include the suit we are transferring to. For example, "Transfer to Spades."

Traditional Support Doubles and Re-Doubles are no longer alertable.

Direct Cue Bids (with the exception of Michaels) must now be alerted.

Uncontested jump shifts no longer require an alert.

Instead of saying “could be short” when bidding 1 Club, for example, you now must specify the number of cards in that suit: “Could be as short as one” etc.

OLD STUFF

When asked what your bid means, never give the name of the convention! (i.e. Cappelletti, DON’T, Precision, etc.)  Instead, you must describe your hand. There are NO secrets in the bidding.

Don’t be just a SLUG!  Add your full name to your BBO profile.  We all like to know who we are playing with at the table, since we can’t see you,

If your BBO rating is "3" or more, you're no longer a "Beginner."

Each pair must have a convention card posted.  Unless, of course, you are subs or newly paired. In this case, you must announce your systems at each table.

Please pay attention!  If your name is highlighted in YELLOW, it’s your turn to bid or play, unless you are the dummy.

Learn to use the BBO Chat function judiciously.

The "Table" setting is best for greeting your opponents which you should do regularly. Use it for magnanimous congratulations to the opponents especially when you witness a challenging hand well played. If subs are playing, thank them for joining the game.

The "Private" setting is best for discussions with your partner about the bidding or play of a game, or the sorry state of the world. As in Face-to-Face games, no one wants to hear you bickering or gloating. If you make a negative comment about your partner or the opponents, double check to make certain the right chat mode is on. Remember: sarcasm doesn't work well on these chats.

The "Lobby" setting is great for announcements, such as congratulating high-point getters and special games,