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| Coming Soon! |
Game Updates for Unit 530
1. April Fool's Day Game: Wednesday, April 1, 2026, 10 a.m. will feature surprising and fun hands. Joe Truskot personally created the boards and will direct the game. Wednesday games are for 750 masterpoints or below.
2. No Game on Easter Sunday, April 5. The 10 a.m. games resume on April 19. Let Ann Ahmadi know you're coming (831-638-5547).
3. The next Bridge and Brunch Unit Game will take place on Sunday, April 12, at Noon. The lunch will feature a Taco Bar with different fillings and tortillas. We need appetizers, sides, salads, and desserts, and we look forward to a fun game. Hetty Eddy is directing.
4. Hetty and Joe are arranging a Pro-Am Invitational Game. Details and the signup sheet will follow soon.
5. A signup sheet for the Saturday, April 25 Team Game will be posted soon.
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| Unit Game Draws 12 Full Tables of Spring Chickens |
Spring Chicken Unit Game Offered Fun Hands and Fowl Cuisine
On Sunday, March 8, 2026, the Monterey Bridge Club Unit 530 held its March Unit Game. Thanks to the generous chefs who brought chicken enchiladas, stir-fry, stew, and salads. What came first? chicken or egg. Didn't matter. We had both on the buffet table. Great desserts as well.
According to Unit 530 Treasurer Ray Mok, the game produced 12 full tables and a net profit of $857 of which $97 were donations.
North-South Point Getters: 1st - Alan Hedegard and Leonard Chriss, 2nd - Mano Singham and Bob Dubroff, 3rd - Amy Pofcher and Janet Hedlund, 4th - Tom and Ewan Eby, 6th - Martha Hawley and Gerry Kapolka, 7th - Glenn Chee and Gina Brown, 8th - Bonnie Tragni and Bonnie Simon, 9th - Charlotte Keeley and Charlene Duecy.
East-West Point Getters: 1st - Peter Gelfand and Yati Sahae, 2nd - Sharon Larson and Ron Loiacono, 3rd - Trulee Ricketts and Helen Rubin, 4th - Lynn Ferris and Pinney Allen, 5th - Ahmad Ahmadi and Gabrielle Fischer, 6th - Linda Gibson and Roy Shanker, 7th - Carol Sendell and Ted Hill.
The next unit game will take place on Sunday, April 12, 2026. The Monterey Bridge Center is located at 201B Calle del Oaks, Del Rey Oaks, California; 831-747-1650. The Monterey Bridge Club is an affiliate of the American Contract Bridge League. (The image is generated by ChatGPT, and it's almost correct.)
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| Mardi Gras Theme for February 15 Unit Game |
Unit Game Celebrates Mardi Gras at the Monterey Bridge Center
On Sunday, February 15, 2026, the Monterey Bridge Club Unit 530 hosted a New Orleans-style brunch and open game with 12 full tables. Don Fennell prepared a large Jambalaya, and the buffet table was resplendent with appetizers, salads, and desserts. Our hospitality chair, Amy Pofcher, presided over the occasion and made sure attendees had what they needed. She also did a great job with the cleanup duties.. Maja directed the unusually challenging hands. According to Treasurer Ray Mok, the event resulted in a profit of $888, of which $128 were donations.
Top North-South Point Getters: 1st - Tom and Ewan Eby, 2nd - Joyce Hamza and Gary Fontana, 3rd - Richard Wang and Leonard Chriss, 4th - Sharon Larson and Ron Loiacono, 5th - Amy Pofcher and Janet Hedlund, 6th - Ahmad Ahmadi and Jane Altavilla.
Top East-West Point Getters: 1st - Maja and Helen Rubin, 2nd - Judy Murdock and Marti Jones, 3td - Leigh Zerboni and Mano Singham, 4th - Barbara Santry and Jim Lauderdale, 5th - Ann Wyatt and Dennis Vanmiddlesworth, 6th - Rita Harvey and Lynn Simmons, 7th - Pinney Allen and Lynn Ferris.
The next Unit Game will take place on Sunday, March 8, 2026, at noon.
The Monterey Bridge Club is located at 201B Calle del Oaks, Del Rey Oaks, California; 831-747-1650.
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| Sunday Morning Launch of Open Game, February 1, 2026 |
REGULAR SUNDAY MORNING OPEN GAME LAUNCH - HUGE SUCCESS
On Sunday, February 1, 2026, the Monterey Bridge Club began a new series of open stratified games. These games will take place every Sunday that is not already committed to our popular Bridge and Brunch Unit Games. Ann Ahmadi will direct the games and provide refreshments and hand records. The cost is $12.
At our inaugral game, we had 8.5 tables with a spectrum of beginning, intermediate, and expeienced players. We hope that these games will continue to attract a new group of players - ones who cannot play bridge during a workday. It will also provide many active members with an additional opportunity to play duplicate bridge.
Top North -South point getters: 1st - Maja and Glenn Chee, 2nd - Barbara Santry and Joyce Hamza, 3rd - Leonard Chriss and Richard Wong, 4th - Tony Muller and Allyson Farrell, 5th - Roy Shanker and Linda Gibson
Top East-West point getters: 1st - Kurt Schnebele and Arlene Seckal, 2nd - Trulee Ricketts and Helen Rubin, 3rd - Mano Singham and Gabrielle Fischer, 4th - Susan Mehra and Ahmad Ahmadi, 5th - Karen Belding and Yuki Puar
We need your help in spreading the word about this exciting new opportunity. Think about people you know who might like to play in these games and forward this message to them.We need your help in spreading the word about this exciting new opportunity. Think about people you know who might like to play in these games and forward this message to them.
Please click here and let Ann know whether you can join us for the second Sunday morning game on February 8 at 10 a.m,.
For more information, text Ann at 831-620-5547 or Ahmad at 831-330-1993.
The Monterey Bridge Center is located at 201B Calle del Oaks, Del Rey Oaks, CA 93940; 831-747-1650.
Thanks for your help and support of the Monterey Bridge Center. We look forward to seeing you all.
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| PASTAFEST - First Unit Game of 2026 |
 PASTAFEST - Draws 46 Players!
The Monterey Bridge Center held an Open Unit Game on Sunday, January 18, 2026. The event drew 11 1/2 tables. According to Unit Treasurer, Ray Mok, the event netted $786, of which $66 were donations. Joe Truskot directed with assistance from Mano Singham. Hospitality chair Amy Pofcher provided exceptional support in working with the PastaFest luncheon spread and cleanup. A hearty thanks to all who brought the stunning array of desserts and salads, and there were several happy players who took home for supper the remaining Rotini and Orecchiette pasta dishes.
North - South Top Point Getters:1st - Helen Rubin and Trulee Rickets, 2nd - Tom and Ewan Eby, 3rd - Amy Pofcher and Janet Hedlund, 4th - John Mahoney and Gerry Williams, 5th - Gerry Kapolka and Martha Hawley, 6th - Joe Truskot and Ed Lange.
East - West Top Point Getters: 1st and 1st Overall - Ray Mok and Rita Harvey, 2nd - Marti Jones and Richard Wang, 3rd - Philip Duterme and Danny Solow, 4th - Mano Singham and Bob DuBroff, 5th - Gary Fontana and Joyce Hamza.
The February Unit Game will take place on Sunday, February 15, 2026, a week later than usual due to the Super Bowl. A signup sheet is posted at the Bridge Center, or you can click here to add your name to the list.
These games raise important funds for the operation of the Monterey Bridge Club Unit 530 of the American Contract Bridge League. The Monterey Bridge Center is located at 201B Calle del Oaks, Del Rey Oaks, California; 831-747-1650.
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| New Year's Eve Game Ties Record |
Monterey Bridge Center Says Goodbye to 2025 with Record Turnout!
Our Open Game on Wednesday, December 31, 2025. at the Bridge Center saw 17 full tables competing. The game was directed by Maja and featured an incredibly delicious array of heavy hors d'oeubres. Whole hearted thanks go to Amy Pofcher and the hospitality team for making the event so festive. Richard Sheere led those assembled in a chorus of Auld Lang Syne. Lyde McReynolds came at the end of the game to say "hello" and wish everyone a happy 2026.
North South Point Getters: 1st - Alan Hedegard and Leonard Chriss, 2nd - Barbara Hake and Jane Williamson, 3rd - Ray and Karen Mok, 4th - Victoria Bell and Helen Sue Brand, 5th - Ed Lange and Joe Truskot, 6th - Anne Marie von Adelung and Valerie Cantor, 7th - David Ow and Susan Mazzei, 8th - Gale Weir and Ken Ottmar
East West Point Getters: Kurt Schnebele and Arlene Sekel, 2nd - Incy Brooks and Bill Shellooe, 3rd - Ewan and Tom Eby, 4th - Barbara Santry and Joyce Hamza, 5th - Ann Wyatt and Dennis Van Middlesworth, 6th - Glenn Chee and Gina Brown, 7th - Lynne Weatherman and Betty Jackson, 8th - Miranda Morris and Chuck Olvis, 9th - Amy Pofcher and Claudia Vierneisel. What a game to end an Old New Year!
The Monterey Bridge Center is closed during the Monterey Regional Clambake. We reopen on Monday, January 12, 2026. The next unit game will take place at Noon on Sunday, January 18, 2026 with Joe Truskot directing. More information will be posted soon.
Monterey Bridge Center – 201B Calle del Oaks, Del Rey Oaks, 93940 (831) 747-1650
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| Unit Game Results - Sunday, December 14, 2025 |
♠ ♥ ♣ ♦ December Unit Game Highlights ♠ ♥ ♣ ♦
   
All the players at the Holiday Unit Game last Sunday were in a particularly joyful mood. The 16-table event was the second-largest turnout at our Del Rey Oaks location. Ray reported that the event netted $1,206, including $155 in cash donations.
Marti Jones and Gabrielle Fischer donated a delicious ham, and we enjoyed a variety of holiday dishes and desserts to complement the meal. The holiday decorations donated by Jane Altavilla were an excellent addition to the festive day. Two players from Santa Cruz were so impressed with the lunch that they joked about returning just for the meal. A big thank you to Amy Pofcher, who handled all aspects of the lunch, including washing the dishes.
Doug Halleen not only directed the 64-player game but also participated, ensuring there was an even number of tables and no sit-outs.
Bidding on the 26 items in the Annual Silent Auction ended just before the game finished. Our profit was $4,045 – thanks to Joe Truskot for doing an excellent job organizing the auction.
Game Results:
Top North-South Pairs:
- Don Fennell & Kathy Pfitzer (pictured above)
- Leonard Chriss & Alan Hedegard
- John Mahoney & Gerald Williams
- Thomas Eby & Ewan Eby
- Joe Truskot & Ed Lange
- Marion Keyworth & Judy Ritchie
Top East-West Pairs
- Helen Rubin & Trulee Ricketts (pictured above)
- Ann Ahmadi & Ahmad Ahmadi
- Leigh Zerboni & Mano Singham
- Doug Halleen & Glenn Chee
- Janet Tainty & Neil Joseph Smyth
- Maja & Sharon Larson
Mark Your Calendar!
Our next Unit Game is scheduled for Sunday, January 18, 2026. The entry fee is $20. You can sign up at the Monterey Bridge Center or easily register online by [Clicking Here]. We will add your name to the list.
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| Silent Auction Underway |
Current Bid Amounts as of Thursday, December 11
Amounts will be updated on Friday, December 12. Final Bids must be entered by 3:30 p.m., Sunday, December 14, 2025. If interested in bidding, send your maximum bid to jtruskot@comcast.net. and bids will be booked in the increments listed on each item.
- Paella Feast for 16 ($350)
- Four Monterey Symphony Tickets ($190)
- Homemade Fruit Cake, Egg Nog, Brandy ($85)
- Persian Dinner for 8 ($500)
- Bernardus Pinot Noir Magnum ($70)
- Bridge Lessons with Sharon Larson ($300)
- Cookies-A-Month ($180)
- Sailing on the Monterey Bay for 4 ($100)
- Succulent Plants in Heart Shape Box ($45)
- Maja Original Design Bag ($50)
- Christmas Stocking ($50)
- Lyde’s Best Bridge Lessons ($150)
- Lunch and Golf at Tehema for 2 ($250)
- Lunch at the Beach Club ($130)
- Nina Ricci Silk Scarf ($20)
- Silver Turquoise Earrings ($50)
- Silver Necklace, Pendant, Earrings ($75)
- Ahmad’s Artisan Jams ($60)
- Kathy’s Jewelry Treasure Chest ($40)
- Indian Gourmet Dinner for 8 ($250)
- Two Tickets Messiah – Santa Cruz ($20)
- Two Tickets Messiah – Salinas ($100)
- Set of 8 Copper Mugs ($50)
- Two Luxurious Shawls ($25)
- Shuffling Machine and Cards ($20)
- Green Striped Wicker Tote Bag ($20)
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| November Unit Game Draws 14 Tables |
A bountiful feast in every way
The Monterey Bridge Club celebrated the Thanksgiving Holiday early this year with a sumptuous display of food, from roasted turkey and the fixings to a Moroccan phylo pastry treat, a roasted chicken and rice dish, and a great display of pies and other desserts. Thanks go to Marti Jones, Jane Altavilla, and many others who chipped in to make the event a success. According to Unit Treasurer Ray Mok, the Sunday, November 9, 2025 event attracted 14 full tables and netted $1,093 of which $177 were donations. Maja directed the game. The monthly Unit Games provide Unit 530 with additional funds to cover our operating costs.
The North-South Point Getters were: 1st - Ed Schrenzel and Greg Northcraft, 2nd - Glenn Chee and Gina Brown, 3rd Richard Wang and Incy Brooks, 4th - Marti Jones and Leigh Zeiboni, 5th Lynne Weatherman and Betty Jackson, 6th - Trulee Ricketts and Hong Hai DuBroff, 7th - Joyce Hamza and Gary Fontana.
The East-West Point Getters were: 1st - Maja and Helen Rubin, 2nd - Mano Singham and Bob DuBroff, 3rd - Tom and Ewan Eby, 4th - Leonard Chriss and Alan Hedegard, 5th - Pinney Allen and Lynn Ferris, 6th - Shirley Smith and Diane Duey, 7th - Sharyn Siebert and Joe Truskot, 8th - Pat Canada and Esther Takigawa, 9th - Mini and Dan Kirtane.
The Silent Auction started at this game and will continue to expand its offerings and bidding right up to the next Unit Game on Sunday. December 14, 2025. If you have consumable items you would like to donate to the auction and that might attract bidders, please contact Joe Truskot, Unit President. Click here.
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| Halloween at the Bridge Center |
Nine tables competed for points and prizes
Game director Hetty Eddy organized a Halloween Party and Bridge Game on Friday, October 31, 2025, with great help from Lorri Hogg, Rita Harvey, Lisa Estabrooks, Kerry Meyer, Joe Truskot, Ann Ahmadi, and several folks who brought food. The meatballs in a caldron were to die for!
Top Costume prize went to Don Graham with Kathy Pitzer coming in a close second. The top game North South players went to Jim Lauderdale and Mano Singham, and the top game East West went to Don Fennell and Maja (both pairs ineligible for points). Top Point Scorers went to Ed Schrenzel and Neville Kirby, North South, and Jim Riesenfeld and Kass Schwin, East West. Thanks to all for a spooktacular celebration.
         
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| Unit Game Results - Sunday, October 12, 2025 |
♠ ♥ ♣ ♦ October Unit Game Highlights ♠ ♥ ♣ ♦
   
It turned out to be another beautiful October day for our monthly Lunch and Open Game. The main dish was a basmati rice cooked with butter, turmeric, cloves, and several vegetables, topped with a variety of homemade stews, curries, and stir-fries. A special shoutout goes to Mano Singham, Marti Jones, Neville Kirby, Amy Pofcher, and Joe Truskot, who prepared all the dishes. Thanks to everyone who brought appetizers, salads, and desserts, making the lunch a true feast.
Congratulations to Joe on his first time directing a Unit Game, despite some last-minute juggling that led to a successful outcome.
Treasurer Ray Mok reported that the event raised $966, including a generous $245 donation from our members.
Game Results:
Top North-South Pairs:
1. Mano Singham & Bob Dubroff (pictured above):
2. Thomas Eby & Ewan Eby
3. John Mahoney & Gerald Williams
4. Roy Shanker & Linda Gibson
5. Amy Pofcher & Janet Hedlund
6. Jim Lauderdale & Don Fennell
Top East-West Pairs:
1. Doug Halleen & Ray Mok (pictured above):
2. Helen Rubin & Gerard Kapolka
3. Pinney Allen & Lynn Farris
4. Lynn Simmons & Neville Kirby
5. Sharon Larson & Susie Fugelsang
6. Bonnie Simon & Bonnie Tragni
Mark Your Calendar!
Our next Unit Game is scheduled for Sunday, November 9, 2025. The cost is $20. A signup sheet is available at the Monterey Bridge Center, or simply [Click Here] to sign up online. We will add you to the list.
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| Unit Game Results - Sunday, September 14, 2025 |
♠ ♥ ♣ ♦ September Unit Game Highlights ♠ ♥ ♣ ♦
   
It was a beautiful warm day last Sunday for our Paella Cookout and September Unit Game. We had 52 players attend, and Maja skillfully directed the game.
Treasurer Ray Mok reported that the event yielded a net profit of $1,120, including $282 in generous cash donations.
A big thanks to Kurt Schnebele, who single-handedly prepared the paella on the patio as the main course. To complete the meal, members brought a delicious assortment of salads, side dishes, and desserts.
Game Results:
Top North-South Pairs:
1. Neville Kirby & Lynn Simmons (pictured above)
2. Thomas Eby & Ewan Eby
3. Betty Jackson & Lynne Weatherman
4. John Mahoney & Gerald Williams
5. Ray Mok & Karen Mok
6. Lorrie Hogg & Rita Harvey
Top East-West Pairs:
1. Martha Hawley & Gerard Kapolka (pictured above)
2. Incy Brooks & Susie Fugelsang
3. Shirley Smith & Diane Duey
4. Leigh Zerboni & Marti Jones
5. Kathy Gray & Pat Heller
6. Mini Kirtane & Dan Kirtane
Mark Your Calendar!
Our next Unit Game is scheduled for Sunday, October 12, 2025. The cost is $20. A signup sheet is available at the Monterey Bridge Center, or simply [Click Here] to sign up online. We will add you to the list.
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| Round Robin Team Game proves great fun |
Team Game draws nine tables of players
Kudos to Alan Hedegard for running a Round Robin version of the popular team game held on Saturday, August 23, 2025. Round Robin is a way of organizing the game when there is an odd number of tables. It was executed beautifully. According to Bridge Club treasurer Ray Mok, the Team Game had a net profit of $388.
Winners List - Congratulations. All teams earned black points!
1. Sharon Larson, Susie Fugelsang, Sam Dodson, Nancy Croom
2. Allyson and Bob Farrell, Hong Hai and Bob Dubroff
3. Gina Brown, David Ow, Lynn Simmons, Neville Kirby
4. Candy Garvey, Kathy High, Marti Jones, Charles Beren
5. Trulee Ricketts, Pat Heller, John Mahoney, Gerry Williams
6. Ray and Karen Mok, Ann Wyatt, Joe Truskot
7. Lynne Weatherman, Barbara Santry, Ann and Ahmad Ahmadi
8. Joyce Hamza, Gary Fontana, Carol Sendell, Ted Hill
9. Mano Singham, Lorri Hogg, Maja, Rita Harvey
The next team game will take place on Saturday, September 27, 2025, 12:30 p.m.
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| Bridge Beginner Class - Saturday, September 13, 2025 |
Beginning Bridge Class Starts September 13, 2025
If you have always wanted to learn how to play Bridge, here is your chance! The Monterey Bridge Club will start a new Bridge Beginner Class on Saturday, September 13, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon. This class is suitable for individuals with little or no bridge experience. The class will run for 10 weekly sessions designed to build fundamental knowledge of the game, with about half of each session dedicated to playing hands. The cost is $15 per session.
Some of the topics included will be hand evaluation, the bidding ladder, major/minor suit and no-trump opening bids and responses, overcalls, and foundational strategies for defensive play—such as understanding opening leads, signaling, and choosing the best suit to establish.
The classes will be held at the Monterey Bridge Center, 201B Calle del Oaks, Del Rey Oaks. To register or get more information, please contact Hetty Eddy at hettyeddy1@me.co or 831-262-1420.
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| Unit Game Results - Sunday, August 10, 2025 |
♠ ♥ ♣ ♦ August Unit Game Summary ♠ ♥ ♣ ♦
   
The August Unit Game held last Sunday drew a strong turnout with 15 tables of enthusiastic players. Thanks to Doug’s expert direction, the tournament ran smoothly from start to finish.
Treasurer Ray Mok reported that the event generated a total profit of $1,111, including $117 in generous cash donations. These donations account for approximately 30% of our operating budget and play a crucial role in sustaining our ongoing games.
A special thank you goes to Joe Truskot, who prepared delicious quiches for lunch, and to David Galbraith – along with his hard-working hens – for providing fresh, free-range eggs to ensure top-quality ingredients. A big thank you is also extended to the members who brought a variety of salads, sides, and desserts, helping to create a memorable meal and a truly successful event.
Game Results:
Top North-South Pairs:
- Ed Schrenzel & Neville Kirby (pictured above)
- Leonard Chriss & Alan Hedegard
- Thomas Eby & Ewan Eby
- Barbara Santry & Joyce Hamza
- Ahmad Ahmadi & Ann Ahmadi
- Bonnie Tragni & Bonnie Simon
Top East-West Pairs:
- Sharon Larson & Susie Fugelsang (pictured above)
- Candace Garvey & Kathy High
- Gerald Williams & John Mahoney
- Sam Dodson & Helen Rubin
- Linda Miller & Susan Foster
- Carol Sendell & Ted Hill
Mark Your Calendar!
Our next Unit Game is scheduled for Sunday, September 14, 2025. The cost is $20. A signup sheet is available at the Monterey Bridge Center, or simply [Click Here] to sign up online – we will add you to the list.
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| Unit Game - Sunday, July 13, 2025 |
July Unit Game Highlights
 
Our July Unit Game and summer picnic lunch were a great success this past Sunday, July 13, 2025! Players enjoyed a delicious meal featuring Joe’s famous Sloppy Joes, Jane Altavilla’s classic potato salad, and an impressive variety of salads and desserts brought by members.
We had a fantastic turnout, with 42 players filling 10½ tables. Treasurer Ray Mok reported that the event brought in a net of $858, which included $195 in generous donations—thank you to all who contributed!
Game Results
Top North-South Pairs:
- Mano Singham & Robert Dubroff (pictured below)
- Leonard Chriss & Alan Hedegard
- Joe Truskot & Ed Lange
- Barbara Santry & Susie Fugelsang
- Lynne Weatherman & Betty Jackson
- Roy Shanker & Linda Gibson
Top East-West Pairs:
- Pat Heller & Glenn Chee (pictured below)
- Carol Sendell & Ted Hill
- Lynn Simmons & Neville Kirby
- Bonnie Tragni & Shirley Smith
- Ray Mok & Karen Mok
- Keith Hedlund & Candace Garvey
 
Mark Your Calendar!
Our next Unit Game is scheduled for Sunday, August 10, 2025. The cost is $20. A signup sheet is available at the Monterey Bridge Center or simply [click here] to sign up online—we'll add your name to the list!
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| Unit 530 Board of Directors Announced |
Board of Directors for the 2025-2026 Season
President: Joe Truskot, Vice President: Ahmad Ahmadi, Treasurer: Ray Mok, Secretary: Rita Harvey
Director Liaison/Purchasing: Maja, Goodwill: Barbara Santry, Hospitality: Amy Pofcher, Membership: Kerry Meyer, Webmaster: Sarah Adams
Non-Voting Positions: Diamond in the Ruff reporter: Ed Schrenzel, Unit Tournament Coordinator: Mano Singham, District 21 Liaison: (open).
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| Annual Meeting and Unit Game, Sunday, June 8, 2025 |
Monterey Bridge Club Annual Meeting and Open Game Draws Twelve and Half Tables
Unit 530 bridge players met on Sunday, June 8, 2025, with an awesome display of delicious food, challenging hands, and uplifting spirit. President Neville Kirby reviewed the numerous accomplishments during the past year and reported on the financial success of our efforts, which made the year a resounding success on all fronts. Treasurer Ray Mok noted that the game netted $884, including $66 in donations..
Top North South point getters: 1st - Ed Lange and Joe Truskot, 2nd - Lynne Weatherman and Betty Jackson, 3rd - Jim Lauderdale and Don Fennell, 4th - Judith Richie and Sharon Siebert, 5th - John Mahoney and Gerry Williams, 6th - Glenn Chee and Peter De Gregorio, 7th - Barbara Santry and Joyce Hamza, 6th - Lynn Farris and Cindy Taliaferro.
Top East West point getters: 1st - Ann and Ahmad Ahmadi, pictured, 2nd - Tom and Ewan Eby, 3rd - Bonnie Simon and Bonnie Tragni, 4th - Leonard Chriss and Tony Muller, 5th - Sharon Larson and Mano Singham, 6th - Linda Gibson and Roy Shanker..
The next Unit Game will take place on Sunday, July 13, 2025. Maja is directing, and hand records will be available. The cost is $20. A signup sheet is available at the Monterey Bridge Center, or click here, and we will add your name to the list of players.
The Monterey Bridge Club is located at 201B Calle del Oaks, Del Rey Oaks, California; 831-747-1650.
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| Monterey Bridge Club Board Celebrates Success |
2025 Sectional Tournament Far Surpasses 2024
The Board of Directors of Monterey Unit 530 celebrated the success of its May 3 and 4, 2025, Sectional Tournament at its May 8, 2025 meeting. According to Club Treasurer Ray Mok the organization projects a net result of $4,599. Donations from the Larry Slaton Trust and Glenn Chee plus merchandise sales, accounted for $2,509 of this amount. Saturday morning game had 24 tables of four players, Saturday's afternoon game had 20 tables of four players, and Sunday's team game had 12 teams of four competing. The board of directors welcomes comments regarding the tournament and the venue -- Portuguese Hall, Monterey. Click here to send your comments.
Pictured from left are Neville Kirby, president; Ray Mok, treasurer; Ann Ahmadi, tournament director; Amy Pofcher, hospitality chair, Ahmad Ahmadi, assistant tournament director and special projects chair; Rita Harvey, secretary; Trulee Ricketts, District 21 liaison; Bill Breen, vice president; Mano Singham, nominating committee and sanction chair; Maja, game director liaison; and Barbara Santry, goodwill chair; (not pictured) Joe Truskot, membership chair/webmaster and, in this instance, photographer.
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| Coronation Sandwiches and Great Game |
May 18 Bridge and Brunch Game Produced Many Winners
The Monterey Bridge Club held its monthly Open Unit Game on Sunday, May 18, 2025. Ten and half tables competed under the direction of Lyde McReynolds, who got to use our new sound system donated to the Monterey Bridge Club by Bob and Hong Hai DuBroff. According to Club Treasurer Ray Mok the game netted $683 which included a $20 donation. Hong Hai DuBroff's Coronation Sandwiches were delicious and colorful! Multiple thanks to all who donated sides, salads, and desserts and who helped set up and clean up. We can't thank you all enough..
Top Point Winners North-South: 1st - Arlene Seckel and Kurt Schenbele, 2nd - Candy Garvey and Kathy High, 3rd - Ray and Karen Mok, 4th - Sharon Larson and Hong Hai DuBroff, 5th - Lynn Farris and Pinney Allen, 6th - Judy Richie and Marion Keyworth, 7th - Debbie Anthony and Jean Engvall.
Top Point Winners East-West: 1st - Ewan and Tom Eby, 2nd - Maja and Marti Jones, 3rd - Lynne Weatherman and Betty Jackson, 4th - Mano Singham and Bob DuBroff, 5th - Carol Sedell and Ted Hall, 6th - Doug Halleen and Maureen Wittels, 7th - Miranda Morris and Chuck Olvis.
The next Unit Game will take place on Sunday, June 8, 2025 and will also be our Annual Meeting.
 
Hong Hai DuBroff prepared Coronation Sandwiches, created for the Coronation of Queen Elizabeth II. The ingredients included chicken, fruit and curry. Lyde McReynolds used the new microphone aide. All photos by Lynne Weatherman.
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| Monterey Sectional Tournament Draws Huge Crowd |
Tournament Organizers Offer a Great Weekend of Bridge
The Sectional Tournament held on Saturday and Sunday, May 3 and 4, 2025, draws 24 tables of players. The event was a great success due to its diligent year-long planning efforts spearheaded by event organizer Ann Ahmadi and her team. Her terrific planning skills paid off in a flawlessly executed tournament at a never-before-utilized site -- Portuguese Hall on Casanova Street, Monterey. The Monterey Bridge Club is grateful for the financial support it received from Glenn Chee and the Estate of Larry Slaton. We are particularly thankful for the many folks who donated food and for the muscle grease in setting up and tearing down the tournament. Dates for the next Monterey Sectional Tournament are May 16 and 17, 2026.
Saturday, May 3 Game Winners
   
Morning Open Winners, from left: Yehudit Hasin-Brumshten and Yatindra Sahae, Morning <500 Winners Bob DuBroff and Lipika Sur, Afternoon Open Winners: Mick Friedberg and Ken Llacera, Afternoon <500 Winners: Jean Engvall and Mano Singham
Morning Open Game Winners: 1st - Yehudit Hasin-Brumshten and Yatindra Sahae, 2nd - TIED Mick Friedberg and Ken Llacera, Don Fennell and Jim Lauderdale, 4th - Maja and Trulee Ricketts, 5th - Ahmad Ahmadi and David Galbraith, 6th - Lowell Gist and Allyson Farrell, 7th - John Mahonney and Gerry Williams, 8th - Martha Hawley and Gerry Kapolka, 9th - Clive Surfleet and Shailesh Naik.
Morning <500 Game Winners: 1st - Bob DuBroff and Lipika Sur, 2nd - Ford and Rula Tamer, 3rd - Bill Breen and Kristen McMurray, 4th - Mikki Kindelberger and Francene Tabak, 5th - Kathy Pfitzer and Joyce Hamza, 6th - Julie Beck and Ellen Satow, 7th - Karen Belding and Lynne Simmons.
Afternoon Open Game Winners: 1st - Mick Friedberg and Ken Llacera, 2nd - Alan Hedegard and David Ow, 3rd - Lyde McReynolds and Ray Mok, 4th - Doug Halleen and Hetty Eddy, 5th - Jim Lauderdale and Don Fennell, 6th - Maja and Helen Rubin, 7th - Gerard Laquerriere and Mun Takeda, 8th - Bob Farrell and Dennis Vanmiddlesworth, 9th - Clive Surfleet and Shailesh Naik.
Afternoon <500 Game Winners: 1st - Jean Engvall and Mano Singham, 2nd - Kathy Pfitzer and Joyce Hamza, 3rd - Charles Vandborg and Nancy Oliveira, 4th - Pamela Kissiah and Catherine Foy, 5th - Ford and Rula Tamer, 6th - Ahmad Ahmadi and David Galbraith.
Sunday, May 4 Team Game Winners
  
Total of 12 Teams Competed in the Game
1st Place: Allyson Farrell, Lowell Gist, Gerard Laquerriere, and Mun Takeda
2nd Place: Maja, Helen Rubin, Mano Singham, and Bob DuBroff
3rd Place: Ray Mok, Ed Lange, Ann Wyatt, and Joe Truskot
4th Place: Pat Heller, Mary Ellen McCormick, Gerry Williams, and John Mahoney
5th Place: Gina Brown, Michael Modest, Janet Tainty, and Robert Johnson
6th Place: Charles Vandborg, Nancy Oliveira, David and Judy Niver
7th Place: Marti Jones, Leigh Zerboni, Ken Gaskins, and Charles Beren
Kudos to Lynn Yokel, Associate Tournament Director, American Contract Bridge League
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| Update from the Monterey Bridge Educational Foundation |
MBEF Expresses Gratitude for Unit 530 Members' Generosity
The Monterey Bridge Educational Foundation has concluded its second annual fund-raising campaign. In December and January, we received tax-free gifts of $13,925 from 34 donors. At the end of 2024, we had net assets of $46,375. During 2024, we disbursed $6,900 to the Monterey Bridge Club, mainly for rental assistance, and made other disbursements in support of bridge classes.
Thank you for your continuing support.
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| Alan Hedegard Certified Local Sectional Director |
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
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| Sharon Larson Certified Bridge Educator |
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.
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| Unit 530 receives gift from Larry Slayton Trust |
Larry Slayton Remembers the Monterey Bridge Club in his Estate
 The Monterey Bridge Club Unit 530 received a significant donation from the estate of Larry Slayton. Larry had been a long-time member of the Club and a director of several games throughout his many years of involvement. He was an expert bridge player, a well-organized director, and a friend and inspiration to many novice players. His commitment to our Unit is evident in this gift.
For those who knew Larry, we can't help but think that he is now busy organizing games for the Heavenly Choir and providing whatever snacks are popular with angels.
If you would like information on how to include the Monterey Bridge Center in your estate, please contact Ken Gaskins or Jim Lauderdale of the Monterey Bridge Educational Foundation or your estate planner for details.
Thanks again, Larry.
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| Championship Bridge - Early 60s TV Show |
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| Partnership Registry Now Available |
We have set up a partnership register for those members who do not have a regular partner or whose regular partner is unavailable. This register is designed specifically for face-to-face games at the Bridge Center in Del Rey Oaks. If you would like to be included in the register, please send a message to Mano Singham ( mano.singham@case.edu) with the following information:
- your name
- email address
- phone number
- approximate number of ACBL masterpoints
Also, please specify the sessions held at the Bridge Center you are available for:
- Wednesday at 10:00 a.m. - Up to 750 master points (Lyde)
- Thursday at 12:30 p.m. - Open Game (Maja)
- Friday at 10:00 a.m. - Up to 750 master points (Lyde)
We are currently updating the list and will send it to everyone who responds. The most efficient use of the list would be for people to contact each other directly when they need a partner and over time build up a personal network. We don't want you to not play because you don't have a partner.
Thanks for helping us rebuild our face-to-face games at the Center.
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| Locally Directed Games Everyday |
 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,
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