A Game for All Ages: Advancements, Achievements, and Community

As we continue to reinvigorate our bridge communities, this issue celebrates the joy that bridge brings to players of all ages. We’re excited to introduce Planet Bridge, a creative learning platform co-created by Unit 506 member, Deborah Drysdale. Planet Bridge makes learning the game fun while fostering a sense of community—perfect for your “bridgecurious” friends. A new session kicks off on September 3rd, so spread the word!

Youth Bridge is thriving in the Bay Area! Amber LIn and Chris Chen share updates on the many activities available for younger players, as well as the remarkable achievements of our youth players at the recent Youth NABC. See their report for a recap of Toronto’s successes and wonderful photos.

Congratulations to new Bronze Life Master Rich Heideman, who shares valuable tips picked up along the way.

Rich’s tips include playing at Regionals, and District 21 has plenty coming up. Tournament Chairs Anne Wilson and Brenda Hatton provide all the essential details about our upcoming Regionals. Plus, Grant Vance announces the 2025 GNT dates while congratulating the D21 teams that did so well at the Summer NABC!

Region 12 Director Jackie Zayac keeps us informed about the latest ACBL activities, providing insights into our organization’s financial health and key initiatives. Online players will appreciate her breakdown of EDGAR, the new technology ensuring fair play, as well as updates on new stratifications for NAP events.

At the heart of our game is the sense of community that brings us together. Sigrid Price is ruminating again, and this month she reflects on the importance of kindness at the table:

Speaking of kindness, let me share a story. Every morning, I sit by the small pond in my backyard and feed the resident goldfish. One fish, in particular, has been acting strangely, repeatedly gulping at the surface without success. I began calling it “The Idiot” in my mind, wondering why it couldn’t just find the food like the others. Then, I had an epiphany: this old goldfish had gradually gone blind and could no longer see the food as it landed. Now, I make sure to drop the pellets right in front of it, feeling happy that it’s getting breakfast.

Why a goldfish story in a bridge newsletter? Just like my aging goldfish, some of our players are dealing with challenges that aren’t always visible. We’re quick to accommodate when a pair needs to sit North-South due to physical limitations, but we may forget to show kindness when the disabilities are less obvious. Maybe it’s memory loss, a slow bid, or a hesitation. An inexperienced player might be slow to bid or play and then astonished when a director is called to mediate a hesitation. Just like my goldfish, these players need a little extra care and understanding. A little kindness goes a very long way. At the table, I hope that my behavior, and yours, creates an atmosphere of enjoyment and comradery playing this game we love.