Minnesota Bridge

Coming Our Way!

Are WE Truly Fortunate to Have
A Minnesota Tournament Soon?

You Betcha!

Here are ALL the details you will be delighted to have!

GOPHER REGIONAL
May 23-28
BLOOMINGTON, MN

It's May. Hooray! Spring has finally sprung in Minneasota. Flowers and fruit trees are blooming, loons and herons have returned to our lakes. And the Minnesota Gopher Regional returns May 23-28.

We are thrilled to be hosting a face-to-face tournament in only a few weeks. We plan to make the 2022 Gopher Regional our best ever. Please come join in the fun.

The tournament is conveniently located near the Mall of America at the Crowne Plaza Aire Hotel in Bloomington (34th Avenue and American Blvd), right off I-494. Our tournament rate is only $99/night for single or double rooms, and $129/night for suites. Book your room now! This special rate is available by phone (952-854-9000), using code MGB.

Our streamlined playing schedule offers two sessions each day, with a game for everyone. See the attached flyer for the game schedule. Select your favorite games and "Go-Pher" the Gold!

Evenings will be free for you to explore. For a list of attractions and experiences unique to Minnesota and within 10 miles of the bridge tables, please visit our website at bit.ly/gopherregional

The tournament will follow all ACBL Zero Tolerance and COVID protocols. Currently, all participants in the playing area must be fully vaccinated, but boosters are not required. Masks are optional in both the hotel and playing areas. If positivity rates increase significantly, this could change. For protocols in effect at tournament time, check our website.

To expedite your check-in, you can now pre-register your vaccination status. Simply email proof of vaccination to [email protected] and then show your picture ID at the Health and Safety Desk to receive the wrist band required to play. Or, you can still register the same day at the tournament's Health and Safety Desk by showing both your vaccination card and a valid photo ID.

This year, cashless transactions at the MN Gopher are preferred. All major credit cards will be accepted where entries are sold. Please understand that due to the COVID situation, we will not be able to offer change for cash payments. Canadian players, please identify yourselves to the entry seller to ensure you receive the promised discount.

Friday, May 27, is Sharon Anderson Day at the tournament. Sharon is a past ACBL President, former ACBL District 14 Director, world class player, and an early champion of the establishment of the ACBL Education Foundation. Sharon is being inducted into the ACBL Hall of Fame later this year. While she eschews the spotlight, we hope you'll help us personally congratulate and thank her for her contributions to the game we love.

Sharon's not the only player who will be recognized. We will be publishing a Fast Results Daily Bulletin during our tournament, and we hope to highlight your top placement in at least one of our events. If you like, upload your headshot photo now so we can be ready. Please email your photo to: 

[email protected] 

with your ACBL# in the subject line

and mention that it is for the MN Gopher Regional.

We can't wait to have you experience May in Minnesota - and especially the Minnesota Gopher Regional. "Go-pher" the Gold! and "Go-pher" the Fun!

Any questions? Please contact:

Tournament Co-Chairs:
Patti Stuhlman 612-865-2527 [email protected]
Warren Nelson 218-269-2724 [email protected]
Partnerships: Tom & Sue Grue 702-454-5352 [email protected]

 

 

Something for Everyone!

Be Happy!

Enjoy Bridge!

I still recall when I began playing bridge.  It surely was fun.  But I had a drive to White Bear Lake to play with my husband's uncle. And although he was a good player, I was a rookie who didn't know too much at all. So between lots of driving every couple of weeks to go to and from the west to the east, I had fun but surely didn't have much upstairs in the way of bridge mastery.

As time went by, friends, both from Minnesota and my home town, Chicago, were
a delight with whom to play and learn.  But boy; I sure had a lot I needed to somehow get out of "entry level" bridge!  That being said, people here and there were so nice, so helpful - and so fun - I began to learn more. And enjoy more.

I also learned this - which to this day I think is important and that we need to focus on it more.  What is it?  It's that bridge players are NOT born equal!  

For some, playing at local games, at someone's home, or just a party is loads of fun.  Others?  They want to learn a lot from those who have played more.  So they listen and learn - and their games improve!  Especially when more experienced players help their friends.

And then we get to the experts - and super stars.  Please note that having a poor game necessarily means you are not such a good player.  Even those who have loads of accolades for decades have errors, "forgets" - and end up with REALLY a bad result!  That actually, in some respects, demonstrates how fun - and also how challenging and tough bridge is!

Yet - the true "bottom line" is that, irrespective of great ability, talent, knowledge - or just a game with buddies...  The game itself is something we can enjoy as long as we have breath in our bods!  Here's to everyone loving bridge - irrespective of the details!

Steve Gaynor is Helping Us - Make Bridge Great Again!

BIG Thanks to Steve Gaynor!

Lots of info for all sorts of bridge!

Be sure to peruse around - and - see
WHATS UP!!

 

LOCAL FULL-TIME BRIDGE CENTER:

 

Bridge Center of St Paul, 2603 6^th Ave, North St. Paul, MN 55109 651-490-5430 6th Ave, North St www.bridgecenterofstpaul.com

 

Minneapolis area face to face games:

 

Monday-Wednesday-Friday:  Edina Senior Center, 5280 Grandview Square, Edina, MN

 

Thursday:  Maple Grove Community Center, 12951 Weaver Lake Rd, Maple Grove, MN

 

Tuesday-Saturday:  Studio 1, 6001 Lyndale Ave S, Minneapolis, MN

 

Contact Tony Ames at 952-200-3871 – [email protected]

 

Contact Scott Smith for Wednesday and Thursday – [email protected]

 

 

 

OTHER POPULAR BRIDGE SITES:

 

Minnesota Bridge Blog:   www.mnbridge.com  

 

Keep up-to-date on all sorts of happenings in the world of Minnesota Bridge.  There are links to lots of other bridge sites including a list of other sanctioned duplicate games in MN.

 

Unit 178.com

 

News about bridge in Minneapolis and the western suburbs

 

American Contract Bridge League (ACBL):  acbl.org

 

See how bridge is administered; check your masterpoints; get tournament schedules; locations of clubs.

 

Bridgebase online:  BBO.com  - Watch, learn and/or play bridge online.  Currently offering ‘Virtual Club Games’ that benefit your local bridge club and pay ACBL masterpoints to the winners.

 

Bridge Winners:  bridgewinners.com - Players from all over the world share experiences, hands, opinions about everything bridge. 

 

 

 

UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS AS OF APRIL, 2022:

 

May 23 - 29     GOPHER REGIONAL @ CROWNE PLAZA AIRPORT/MOA IN BLOOMINGTON, MN

 

Jun    2        I/N Sectional @ St. Luke’s Episcopal Church in Rochester, MN

 

Jun 23 - 25     Granite City Sectional @ 850 19^th St. South in Sartell, MN

 

Jun 29 – Jul 2  REGIONAL @ Waterloo Center For the Arts in Waterloo, IA

 

Jul 21 - 31     SUMMER NABC @ PROVIDENCE COMMUNITY CENTER IN PROVIDENCE, RI

 

TBA             Aquatennial Sectional @ TBA

 

                                                                                                                                                                 GOVERNANCE                                

 

 

 

WBF (World Bridge Federation):  Over 100 countries have national Bridge Organizations that are part of this main organization.  They administer world-wide events and championships including the Bermuda Bowl (held every 2 years); Olympiad or World Mind Sport Games (held every 4 years); Rosenblum Cup (held every 4 years).

 

ACBL: North American bridge organization encompassing the USA, Canada, Mexico, and Bermuda.  It currently has about 150,000 dues paying members and is headquartered in Horn Lake, MS (suburban Memphis). 1-662-253-3100.

 

USBF (United State Bridge Federation): Administers events leading toward WBF world championships to determine the teams from the USA that will compete in the Open, Women’s, Junior’s and Senior’s competitions.

 

ACBL DISTRICT 14: One of 25 Districts in the ACBL.  It encompasses Minnesota, Iowa, Nebraska and North and South Dakota.  There are over 4000 members in this district’s 9 units.

 

ACBL UNIT 103 (Gopher): Encompasses over 800 members all in MN except for Minneapolis and most of its’ western suburbs (see below).

 

ACBL UNIT 178 (Viking): Encompasses about 800 members mainly located in zip codes beginning with 553 and 554.

 

Playing in a TOURNAMENT!!

New or Intermediate Bridge Players: 

The MN Gopher Regional is for You Too!

By Connie Nelson

Have you only recently started to play Duplicate bridge at a local Club?  Or, are you an advancing player at one of the lower masterpoint ranks?  Are you curious about whether you should even consider attending a Tournament at this stage of your bridge journey? 

The answer is: Yes –“Go-Pher” It!  Come join us at the MN Gopher Regional May 23-28.  Every tournament player once attended his or her “first” tournament.  This year could be your turn! 

Regional tournament play gives you opportunities to meet other bridge players, improve your bridge skills, and ask questions of higher-ranked players.  We offer games for every level of skill or masterpoint rank, as well as opportunities to learn and socialize. 

For instance, the MN Gopher has offerings specifically intended for Intermediate or Newcomer (I/N) players, i.e. players with fewer than 300 masterpoints.  These offerings include:

• I/N single session games are held every tournament day, Monday through Saturday, at 10:00 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. If you want to see what a tournament is like, try one of these. Placing high enough will earn you Red  
• Entry fees to I/N games are at a reduced price - only $10 a session. Remember, only players below 300 master points may play.  While these games award reduced master points, they allow you to compete against only your peers.
• “Lunch and Learn” lessons will be held between games Tuesday through Friday in the I/N playing area. Bring your lunch and attend a free mini-lesson taught by area players.

What’s it like to play in a tournament? 

One of the first places you’ll want to find is the Information Desk.  There you will receive information about the types of games offered, the locations they will be played, as well as a small welcome gift. 

Stop next at the Health and Safety Desk.  Everyone at the tournament must be fully vaccinated.  Show your ID and vaccination card and you will get a plastic wristband to wear during the tournament.

To play, you don’t have to pre-qualify or pre-register.  You just show up, meet your partner, register, pay for the event you are interested in, and play.  If you have time to play only one game or one day, that’s fine. Alternately, you can play as many days or games as fits your schedule.  Which games you play at a tournament, and when, is totally your choice. 

If you don’t have a partner, contact Sue Grue ([email protected], or 702-454-5352,  before May 23^rd and ask that a partner be found for you.  If you ever find yourself at a tournament without a partner, go to the Partnership Desk, and ask for help in finding or requesting a partner or teammates. 

If you’d like, you could “Go-Pher” other kinds of games other than I/N.  Unlike IN games, you would be playing against all levels of players.  However, most events are stratified or bracketed, meaning you are scored against players within similar MP ranges. 

For $15 a session, you could try games like:

• Gold Rush Pairs, a two-session event where no player entered can have more than 750 points. A section top or placing overall earns some Gold points!

 

• Stratified Pairs and Side Games, open games that award master points to tops within masterpoint strata or ranges.

 

• Bracketed Swiss Teams, where you sit N/S at one table and your teammates sit E/W at another table. Both tables play the same 6-8 boards and then compare results. Win a match, win master points!

So, if you are curious and considering the MN Gopher Regional, just come!  “Go-Pher the Fun” on May 23-28.  We hope to see you there.

For more information on the Tournament, visit:  bit.ly/gopherregional 

And our big thanks to Connie for our newer players!

Let's Fall in Love....

Throughout the decades, bridge does not stay static.  I recall when I was a child, and I would head to downtown Chicago to see my grandmother play bridge at a tournament.  Both men and women would be dressed elegantly as they enjoyed both bridge, beautifully designed hotels, and excellent meals inbetween sessions.

As time passed, many competitors became more casual - though the intent to kill or be killed remained by the most serious of players. I personally did not learn to play any bridge until I headed out for college in Madison, Wisconsin. Yet many who loved games of all sorts would compete in the games of their choice, with some learning rudamentary elements.  And others would scoop up cash from the unlucky.  

When I headed out to U of MN for grad school, I began to play a bit more bridge myself with an uncle, heading out to White Bear Lake a couple of times a month. It was fun; I was pretty clueless.  Nevertheless, I began to meet others.

I continued to fumble around - until my Aunt Rosy invited me to Oklahoma, where she and my mom were raised. Hugely fortunate to have games over the weekend with Aunt Rosy's many talented friends, I accomplished something that never before nor again occurred; my partners and I manage to finish in the overalls of each event.  And we WON the final team event on Sunday - managing to beat superstars such as Jim Jacoby!  Though I still had years to go before I really had much of a clue - I was hooked.

As many of you know, I have played for many decades.  I was fascinated by the game itself - and the people who played. Yet - as we know - the abilities, knowledge, and more varies from player to player.  Still - one need not be a super star to enjoy the game.  Whether you have a room full of magnificent wins; or are someone whose modest game gives you pleasure, bridge is an incredible sport.

Which leads me to this.  Covid has currently altered our game in ways never before seen.  Mercifully, it is slowly returning though - and I hope that it continues to do so.

Are you one of the games big shots?  Perhaps you can help newer players grow.  Do you simply enjoy the camraderie and fun that bridge can deliver?  Go for it!

I truly hope that many more will start playing again (if they have not already).  That those with talent will help others grow and learn, as I and so many others were fortunate to experience.  As fun as it is to compete and win - it's also a thrill to see someone who was wandering through the desert blossom.  Help others fall in love - and let The Greatest Game return to its magnificent splendor!

 

Unit 103 MASTERPOINT RACE AWARDS CELEBRATION!!

2021  UNIT  103  MASTERPOINT  RACE  AWARDS  CELEBRATION

LET’S  ALL CELEBRATE!!

 

WHERE:        Bridge Center of St. Paul

                         2603 6^th Avenue E., North                                                                                            St. Paul, MN 55109

WHEN:               Saturday, April 23, 2022                         

TIME:               11 am         Free Lunch for all players, awards presented, followed by a Unit Championship, approximately 12:30 pm; entry fee $6.00. (Award winners play free)

Please RSVP by April 15 ,2022, to Bridge Center of St. Paul, 651-490-5430, [email protected],  or sign-up sheet at the Bridge Center. 

Questions? Contact the Bridge Center or Sue Greenberg, [email protected]

Proof of vaccination and ACBL/CDC masking in place.

 

 

Bridge Birthdays and Wishes from St. Cloud Bridge Club!

Bridge-Related Birthday “Wishes”

By Connie Nelson

Once again, we are SO fortunate to have Connie Nelson alert
to what's happening in St. Cloud's neck of the woods!
Connie - we are so grateful to you for the news you share - 
The applause you deliver to those who are doing well.

AND - we are DELIGHTED that a fun and exciting 
success on your part is popping up on YOUR birthday!

Enjoy, everyone! Here's CONNIE!!!  
*************************************************************

On February 10, Robert Nairn of the St Cloud Bridge Club turned eighty-nine years young.  You may recall that I’ve written about Robert before. He was our “Rookie of the Year” in 2018, when he won the Unit 103 Mini-McKenney race for the 0-5 master point range.   In 2020, he won the 50-100 Mini-McKenney race not only for Unit 103, but across all of District 14.  In 2021, he was one of four St Cloud players who became District 14 GNT Flight C Champions, and represented District 14 in the National GNT competition.

So what’s he done lately?

As I mentioned, his 89^th birthday was on February 10.  On that day, Robert shared that his “birthday wish” was to partner with each and every member of our St Cloud Club.  He said, “I hope to accomplish this before I turn 90!!!” 

And, I’m here to tell you…. he is making great progress.  As of March 17, he has played a Club game with thirteen different partners – and there were only fifteen games held during that time period!   He also has ten more players already scheduled for a game.   I think he’s going to make sure his birthday wish is granted, don’t you?

You know that old saying, “Leave a legacy for bridge.  Encourage others to follow suit!”  To me, Robert is blazing quite a living legacy exemplifying the love of bridge  --- as well as sharing that love of the game with many different partners.

The second birthday “wish” involves me, Connie Nelson.  My birthday is February 29^th, and I had a milestone birthday coming up… one of those where the front number changes.  To state it plainly,  I was turning seventy and I had my sights set on making my Silver Life Master before I did.  On February 28^th, I received my 1000^th point in Club play and accomplished my birthday “wish” in the nick of time.  That was really fun! – and made that front-number change a little easier to take.

So make some bridge-related birthday wishes yourself!   It turns out they are quite attainable.

Looking for a Unit Secretary for Unit 103 Board Meetings

Unit Secretary:

Take the minutes of the Unit 103 Board meetings (currently on Zoom 4 to 6 meeting per year), email Board correspondence, announcements, keep unit records and digital documents current.

Position receives a small stipend and reimbursement for any related expenses.

Contact Patti Huiras 651-343-2078 or email [email protected] to apply for this position.

 

 

 

2021 Unit 103 - Masterpoint Race Awards Celebration!

Sue Greenberg Has NEWS!

Unit 103 is Having It's Masterpoint Race Awards Celebration!

Let's ALL Celebrate!

At the Bridge Center of St. Paul - 2603 6th Avenue East
                                                         North St. Paul, MN  55109

WHEN?
Saturday, April 23, 2022

TIME?
11AM 
Free Lunch for All Players
Awards presented

A Unit Championship at 12:30PM Will Follow

Entry Fee is $6.00  (Award winners play for free)

Please RSVP by April 15, 2022 to the Bridge Center of St. Paul
651-490-5430
[email protected]
Or use the sign-up sheet at the Bridge Center

Questions?
Please contact the Bridge Center or Sue Greenberg
[email protected]

Proof of vaccination and ACBL/CDC masking in place

Looking forward to seeing EVERYONE there!

 

 

 

Great News from Steve Gaynor - The Minnesota Gopher Regional in May!!

Minnesota Gopher Regional May 23-28, 2022 sanction # 2205105

Fully vaccinated players only (must show proof of vaccination).
We follow ACBL protocol for masking for the safety of all.

CROWNE PLAZA AIRE HOTEL @ MALL OF AMERICA.
(Please park on the top level of the Parking Lot).

Walking distance from the recently expanded and Fabulous MALL OF AMERICA
American Blvd & 34th Ave S (3 Appletree Square) Bloomington, MN 55425
(I-494 and 34th Ave. So.) 952-854-9000.

Ask for the MN Gopher 
Regional Bridge Tournament (Code –MGB) rate: $99 sgl/dbl; Suite - $129
 Book by phone or on-line Reserve rooms by May 8, 2022.

Do not accept a higher room rate – call or e-mail Patti with problems.
Daily Hospitality: Snacks and FREE COFFEE & TEA every session

MONDAY, MAY 23
10:00 MONDAY OPEN AND GOLD RUSH PAIRS 1ST OF 2 SESSIONS
MONDAY BRACKETED SWISS 1ST OF 2 SESSIONS
MORNING SIDE GAME SERIES #1
2:30 MONDAY OPEN AND GOLD RUSH PAIRS 2ND OF 2 SESSIONS
MONDAY BRACKETED SWISS 2ND OF 2 SESSIONS
AFTERNOON SIDE GAME SERIES #1

TUESDAY, MAY 24
10:00 MARY MEINECKE OPEN AND GOLD RUSH PAIRS 1ST OF 2 SESSIONS
TUESDAY BRACKETED SWISS TEAMS 1ST OF 2 SESSIONS
MORNING SIDE GAME SERIES #2
2:30 MARY MEINECKE OPEN AND GOLD RUSH PAIRS 2nd OF 2 SESSIONS
TUESDAY BRACKETED SWISS TEAMS 2nd OF 2 SESSIONS
AFTERNOON SIDE GAME SERIES #2

WEDNESDAY, MAY 25
10:00 WEDNESDAY OPEN AND GOLD RUSH PAIRS 1ST OF 2 SESSIONS
WEDNESDAY BRACKETED SWISS 1ST OF 2 SESSIONS
MORNING SIDE GAME SERIES #3
2:30 WEDNESDAY OPEN AND GOLD RUSH PAIRS 2ND OF 2 SESSIONS
WEDNESDAY BRACKETED SWISS 2ND OF 2 SESSIONS
AFTERNOON SIDE GAME SERIES #3

THURSDAY, MAY 26
10:00 LARRY OAKEY OPEN AND GOLD RUSH PAIRS 1ST OF 2 SESSIONS
THURSDAY BRACKETED SWISS TEAMS 1ST OF 2 SESSIONS
MORNING SIDE GAME SERIES #4 (FINAL)
2:30
LARRY OAKEY OPEN AND GOLD RUSH PAIRS 2ND OF 2 SESSIONS
THURSDAY BRACKETED SWISS TEAMS 2ND OF 2 SESSIONS
AFTERNOON SIDE GAME SERIES #4 (FINAL)

FRIDAY, MAY 27
10:00 FRIDAY OPEN AND GOLD RUSH PAIRS 1ST OF 2 SESSIONS
FRIDAY BRACKETED SWISS TEAMS 1ST OF 2 SESSIONS
WEEKEND SIDE GAME SERIES #1
2:30 FRIDAY OPEN AND GOLD RUSH PAIRS 2ND OF 2 SESSIONS
FRIDAY BRACKETED SWISS TEAMS 2ND OF 2 SESSIONS
WEEKEND SIDE GAME SERIES #2

SATURDAY, MAY 28
10:00 BRUCE BOJE A/X & BCD SWISS TEAMS 1ST OF 2 SESSIONS
WEEKEND SIDE GAME SERIES #3
2:30 BRUCE BOJE A/X & BCD SWISS TEAMS 2ND OF 2 SESSIONS
WEEKEND SIDE GAME SERIES #4 (FINAL)

I/N PAIR GAMES: MORNING AND AFTERNOON 

SINGLE SESSIONS MONDAY THROUGH SATURDAY
LUNCH AND LEARN TUESDAY THROUGH FRIDAY IN I/N PLAYING AREA.

Any team, regardless of their MP holding, may request to play up in any team event. Please request this at least 30 minutes prior to game time.
 The directors retain the rights to divide the brackets where they deem appropriate. Team strata when applicable, will be decided
by the average of the top 4 MP holdings on each team.
Side game series pays Gold points for section tops and overall finishes as long as you play in two or more sessions of the same series.
 Overall awards are paid individually so you can have different partners.

Stratified Pair Events: Stratified by Average of both players
A: 0-unlimited B: 0-3000. C: 0-1500.
Team events: Stratified (when applicable) by Average of all team members
A: 0-unl. X: 0-5000. B 0-3000. C: 0-1250 D: 0-750
Gold Rush Pairs: A: 0-750. B: 0-300. C: 0-100.
(Gold Rush limited to players with 750 or fewer points).


Entry Fees: $15 person/session; $10 person/session for I/N events.
Unpaid ACBL members $4 more per session.
$5/person/session for current students under 25 with proper ID.
This event complies with ACBL non-smoking regulations.

Patti Stuhlman, Chair [email protected] 612-865-2527
Partnerships – Sue Grue [email protected] 702-454-5352 

Come one; come all!  We are thrilled to see everyone!

Breaking News! – 2022 Granite City Sectional

Our Thanks to Connie Nelson
And Kory Solarz
These Two Fine Players and Organizers
Have New Information for the Granite City Sectional 2022!
Come One - Come ALL!!!

 

New Dates & New Location

By Connie Nelson

The St Cloud Bridge Club is happy to announce that – COVID dependent – we are planning to hold our Granite City Sectional once again this year. 

At a New Location.  We will be hosting our tournament at a new venue – the Sartell Community Center, 850 – 19^th Street South, Sartell MN  56377.   Since returning to face-to-face bridge, we have been playing one of our local Club games here and really enjoy the setting.  The space is all one level and well-lit.

For most players, you will not be driving any further than our former location.  (But don’t put your car on auto-pilot and accidentally drive to the Whitney Senior Center!)  At the new location, there will still be free parking.  It also offers more nearby restaurant options for players between games. 

We hope many of you will come.  And, yes! – we will still offer some homemade goodies for which we are well- known.

On New Dates.  To make this happen, we had to change the dates of our Sectional.  We will be holding it one week later than in other years.  Our Granite City Sectional will now be Thursday, Friday and Saturday on June 23-25^th.    This has the added benefit that it will no longer be on the days immediately preceding Father’s Day Sunday, which we hope will allow many more to attend. 

So mark your calendars and hold these dates!  Start to line up partnerships and teams.  As usual, we will be holding both team and pair games.

If you have any questions, please Email Kory Solarz ([email protected]) or me ([email protected]).

 

Unit 103 Board - Updates as Available

 

President:  Patti Huiras

Vice President:  Sue Greenberg

Directors:

        Connie Nelson

        Matt Baylow

        Amy Dutton

        Rajiv Kapadia

        Tom Owens

        Keith Thompson

Financial Advisor:  Lance Chamberlain

 

Patti Huiras

Unit 103 Board President

[email protected]

651-343-2078

More Loss - Matt Baylow Shares More Sad News

..................

It is with a heavy heart to report that Genny Rice passed away this week,
peacefully in her sleep.  

 

Always with the sunniest of dispositions, Genny will be missed both at and away from the bridge table.  Genny "went out on top", having just scored a 74% Speedball game and coming in 1st out of 228 pairs with her longtime partner, Greg Caucutt, in what would be her last bridge game, having died the following afternoon.  

 

Getting to be 93 years old and still able to play bridge is a remarkable achievement in itself, and she was most recently honored as the RDBC's newest Diamond Life Master.  She loved a party and was always dressed to the nines!  

 

Genny's family is considering having a celebration of Genny's life, details yet to be finalized.  Sue Greenberg will have an update for us as she gets that information.

 

****************************************************************************************************************

Peg here - sharing my memories of a lovely, fun lady - just as Matt described.

 

Genny and I used to have a number of conversations online.  She was such a delightful, fun, caring and kind lady!  My guess is we didn't have ANYONE who didn't enjoy being with Genny....  In addition to her kindness and lovely manner, she was a good bridge player and loved being around everyone.
I don't think that I knew Genny had just become our latest Diamond Life Master!  
Kudos to Genny and her great accomplishment.  I can see her up in the universe - and I hope she is as nice to herself as she's always been to others!

As Matt has said, we will hear more from Genny's family; I look forward to that.
And I welcome any of our bridge players who would like to share their memories of Genny to do so!

So tough to lose another of our precious bridge players....  
Yet - as Matt remarked above - being 93 and STILL able to play a great game

IS a remarkable accomplishment - which Genny achieved!

I used to see Genny's great smile at one of our tables.  Now I shall think of her smile in Heaven.

 

Sad Tidings of the New Year - By Connie Nelson

Should auld acquaintance be forgot 
And never brought to mind?

                                  Absolutely not!                                  

From August-December, 2021,  my husband Jim Schnepf and I lived in Athens, leading a semester-long Study Abroad to Greece for the College of St Benedict/St John’s University.  While away, we were repeatedly saddened with news from home.  Four deaths from among our St Cloud Bridge Club occurred in those four months.

Vern Schlemmer died on August 7^th.   Vern was a solid bridge player who always made the most out of any hand he was dealt.  Our Club manager Kory says of him, “Vern didn’t have the master points, but I considered him an A player.”  Vern fiercely loved bridge and our Club.  Living near Alexandria MN, he drove one and a half hours each way to attend at least one weekly game.  At one of the last games he played, knowing that his health was failing, Vern bought pizza for everyone.  He stood and said a “thank you” for the joy he had received from playing bridge and from our St Cloud “bridge family!”  It brought tears to many eyes.  God speed, Vern!

Gloria Mize’s death on September 16^th left behind a huge hole in our Club.  Gloria served our Club in so many ways - she directed the Wednesday game; she initiated and supported a 199er side game; she taught bridge lessons; and she telephoned endlessly to arrange partnerships.  Gloria was a skilled player who earned nearly 2500 master points, and was an inspiration to many.  She encouraged all of us to continue to learn and better our game, and to play with love for the game!

One day after Gloria, David Warne died on September 17^th.   Dave was a strong competitor who played with many partners.  He wasn’t a slow player, but he was deliberate.  You could almost see his brain whirling as he carefully played each hand.  He was a strong, kind competitor.  A St Cloud State University professor, David was one of our “young” players and was only 68 when he died.  Frankly, I still have a hard time believing that he won’t be returning to the bridge table. 

On October 17^th, Roger Mord died a month later.  Roger enjoyed reading, following current events, playing bridge, gardening, and family.  Roger played in the 199-er games, often with his partner Joan Sand.  We will remember Roger as a very friendly competitor at the Bridge table, who brought a quiet integrity to all he did.

And, speaking of sad tidings, I would be remiss if I didn’t honor two other players who died earlier in 2021.

Jim Ferris died on April 7^th.  A local realtor for many years in the St Cloud area, Jim came to play occasionally in our 199-er games.  He enjoyed the game, and was always a gentleman at the table.

Betty Landsberger died on June 25^th.  St Cloud Bridge player Deb Ampe recalls Betty lovingly.  Betty and Deb were first cousins – and Betty was Deb’s favorite.  Deb summed Betty with one phrase, “Betty had a love for bridge, and an even bigger lust for life!”  Eighty-nine years young when she died, both Deb and I loved it when Betty would “flirt” with the younger male players calling out: “Hey, good looking!”  We all will miss that ever-present smile in her eyes and the quick tease on her lips!

Our Club sends peace and comfort to all family members and friends who knew these beloved players.  Rest In Peace! 

Let's Fall in Love.....

Have you played bridge for more than a short while?  If so, then you likely are aware that it simply doesn't stay the same forever.  I remember when I went to college in Madison Wisconsin - learned to play all sorts of card games - and even a little bit of bridge.  From Madison, I headed to grad school and ended up in the Land of 10,000 Lakes!! I fell in love with Minnesota - then met a relative who enjoyed bridge.  

He encouraged me to occasionally play in St. Paul - so I did.  And although he was a super smart guy and quite nice, too - we rarely played a lot.  Though I enjoyed our games, I truly was a beginner, had a long trek from Minneapolis to the north - and didn't learn that much.

THEN I met a guy who asked me to play one evening - and we were second in an event!  Boy was I excited - especially when we were given trophies that were almost as tall as I was!  That was it; even though I still did not play a huge amount of bridge, playing more - and/or kibitzing - was a true treat.

I have been playing bridge literally for many decades....  so I've seen extreme changes over the years; some good and some not so wonderful.  I surely recall having regionals where almost every seat in TWO BALLROOMS were taken by players; THAT'S how many of us were fascinated and excited by bridge!

As we all know, though, the last few years have brought changes that truly are distinct from decades of our games.  Some have been good - but others have been painful and sad as we see so many games dwindling....  I know that there are some who think that the "death knell" of bridge is on its way...  And while it is impossible to predict, my view is one of hope that much that is not so hot now  will change greatly for the better.  And yet again, we'll see new players and juniors and retired folk - along with talented super stars - returning to the game like no other.

My goal?  I have a few.  One is as I mentioned; as fear of covid diminishes, we'll see more players return.  And once that happens, more will become intrigued with bridge, irrespective of their expertise and/or their beginning experiences.

I think that my greatest hope is that we will see many fall in love again.  Some will simply enjoy a game of bridge every week or two.  Others will become so fascinated, games will grow and grow - beginners will turn into intermediates - and then perhaps experts - and/or super stars!

Whether you are a casual player or one of Minnesota's amazing top players - I hope your enjoyment continues on - and more and more of us return to being bridge lovers!

We can do it!  Please share YOUR THOUGHTS about bridge in 2022.  What are your thoughts for growth?  What do you think creates the most fun and fascination?  What are the most thrilling bridge experiences you've had - and - the most crushing?

I do have my own thoughts that I hope to share.  And please do join me!  Many of us have fallen in love with bridge in the past - yet current circumstances have made playing more challenging for many.  We can fall in love again.   We can create the fun and amazement.  We can entice non-bridge players to be with us!

                                                  Let's do it!!!  

 

The Weather Outside May be Frightful! (Real cold at least!!)

Enjoy year 2022!
Minnesota Winter
Super Silver Sectional!

Larry, Patti and Kimberly - All will help guide!

ACBL Unit 103

Minnesota Winter       Super Silver Sectional        January 27-29, 2022  New Brighton Community Center          400 10th Street NW       New Brighton, MN 55112 Happy New Year of Bridge! We are happy to host our first tournament of 2022 this month. Brrrrriiinng a friend, come to New Brighton, and play some hot bridge. See the attached flyer for details. Tournament Chair:      Larry Huiras         phone: 715-410-8705         email:   [email protected]  Partnerships:      Patti Huiras         phone: 651-343-2078         email:   [email protected]    Tournament Director:      Kimberly Hayward Notice: In accordance with Minnesota & ACBL safety protocols:  PROOF OF COVID VACCINATION REQUIRED before being admitted to the playing area. MASKS REQUIRED in the playing area and facility AT ALL TIMES.

 

Almost New Year!

In a few days - 2021 will be history!  And 2022 will be upon us...

 Bridge will change - yet again - as it has for decades.

I recall when I first began to play bridge.  Often, I wouldn't play at all; I'd watch.  Why did declarer make the play he did?  How did the appoinant know to give away a trick - then get a whole lot more success for doing so?  What caused some players to literally take years to improve their games - while others seemed to have some innate abilities to remember all the cards, focus on what play would give them an edge, know when to be aggressive and when to be patient and calm?

My belief is that each of us has unique talents... and others must work harder to achieve similar goals.  Some are happy to play a couple of times a month; others scramble to have as many dates as possible, study what went wrong and why some choices were magnificent successes.

Needless to say, our bridge world is always changing.  But in these most recent years, it has done so in ways that have surprised and shocked both the best of us and those of us who must dig deep to achieve success.

One aspect of our game that has been superb is the fact that more and more young players are studying and learning more than ever.  The more one can grasp of the game at an earlier age, the better the odds often are that success can be realized, that what was once a deep challenge becomes more facile - and we grow.

Of course, Covid has had a devastating impact on bridge.  Too many have been lost.  Too many are fearful to play these days at all.  Yet I remain hopeful that despite the challenges we face, that our love for the game will yet again grow and survive.  Whether you are a junior who can't get enough bridge no matter what - or - a retiree who enjoys friendships, the occasional win - and only can muster a fraction of what our best competitors achieve - my wish is that we'll have fun - we'll learn - we'll help others - and bridge will indeed grow.  

Fingers crossed that our bridge world - in so many ways - puts smiles on our faces and wisdom in our brains.  And that new generations of competitors enjoy the New Year, entice more to play - and appreciate that bridge truly is The Greatest Game!

 

The Bridge Center of St. Paul's Annual Holiday Tournament!

The Bridge Center of St. Paul’s Annual Holiday Tournament is this Friday and Saturday December 10-11

We have limited space. Reservations necessary if you want to be assured of playing.     

Walk ins may not be able to play due to restricted space. 

To register:

1.    Go to: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10c0c45a4ab23a3f8c16-holiday then:

2.    Scroll down to the Session(s) you want to play in

3.    Click the Sign Up button(s)

4.    Then Click the Submit and Sign Up button at the bottom the page

5.    Fill in the info for you and your partner (or type in “need partner”)

6.    Then click on the Sign Up Now button

Too complicated? Call Kim to sign up: 651-271-3500.

Also; there will be no food between sessions

Ho-ho-hope to see you there!

Woo Hoo!!! Bridge Center of St. Paul Announces Hybrid Bridge Classes!!

MN Bridge is So Excited!

 

Hybrid Bridge Classes Now Have

Enhanced Bridge Classes!

 

Recently, with grants from the Minnesota Bridge Education Fund and Unit 103, the Bridge Center of St. Paul was able to upgrade its teaching environment to allow bridge classes to be taught both in person and online at the same time!!!

This past Fall the first hybrid class was taught to 36 new students, half of which came in person while the other half attended via the internet. A second class on play of the hand subscribed by 8 more students was taught online. While there were more than a couple of technical glitches to be overcome by the end of the course everything finally came together in a workable format.

With the uncertain future regarding the shape of our game, the hybrid format seems to fit well encouraging both online and club play at the conclusion of each course.

Now with upgraded bandwidth the Bridge Center is ready to offer these classes again this Winter:

• Beginning Bridge I - Bidding​            

• 8 Classes: Thursdays, 6:30pm – 8:30pm
     January 13th through March 3rd, 2022

 

• Beginning Bridge II - Play of the Hand
    8 Classes:  Mondays, 6:30pm – 8:30pm
    January 10th through February 28, 2022

Please encourage any potential new players to look into the classes!

Additional information and registration links can be found at: www.bridgecenterofstpaul.com  

 

Bridge Center of St. Paul - Annual Meeting and Dinner!

Big Thanks to Patti Huiras!  

Excellent Annual Meeting and Dinner at the Bridge Center of St. Paul!

8 is Enough Team Game Followed!

 

The Bridge Center of St. Paul held their Annual Meeting and Dinner on Sunday, November 7. The dinner and meeting were followed by an 8 is Enough Team Game with 15 teams participating.

Dinner was catered by Kowalski’s and featured Chicken Breast Marsala, Garlic Mashed Potatoes, and Green Beans Amandine with cake for dessert. 

The meeting included updates from the Board about the status of the Club and where we are going.  The club is doing OK financially, table counts are following current trends. In light of the finances the board decided that Annual Memberships will remain at $20 for the 2022 year.  Those who want to be included in the Club Directory need to get their membership renewal to Kim by December 15. This fall 36 people registered for beginning bridge classes that were offered in a Hybrid environment that simultaneously has people in person and online for each lesson. The Minnesota Bridge Education Fund and Unit 103 were recognized for their generous donations to accomplish the pilot project.

The game proved to be a close one with team Voedisch who had just lost to team Jackson in the penultimate round overcoming team Jackson with a big win in the last round.

On the Covid front, proof of vaccination and a mask are required, but you can see in the pictures, no one was objecting.  Everyone just wants to get back together to play bridge at the Club – and thanks to Kim and Larry and the Board they are able to continue to move forward. A great time was had by all!