Scorecard Volume Volume 57, No. 6 November/December 2025

Volume 57, No. 6

November/December 2025

President’s Message

By Jack LaVigne

President District 16

USA1 – World Champions

The 47th World Bridge Team Championships and the 14th Transnational Open Teams have concluded. Congratulations to USA1 for winning the Bermuda Bowl! Details can be found in the article later in this issue.

District 16 Website

After Ken Monzingo retired as the District 16 Webmaster, I asked Beth Tobias and Ken MacMoran to assist in managing the site. Ken quickly identified a major issue; our existing website was not responsive, meaning it didn’t adjust properly when viewed on tablets or phones.

Around the same time, Evvie Gilbert (our Scorecard Editor and Contact Administrator) discovered that the company hosting our domain, d16acbl.org, had transitioned from JustHost to Bluehost. Since Bluehost includes free website publishing tool, this opened the door for us to modernize the District 16 site.

Beth, Ken, and Evvie formed a District 16 Web Team and developed a responsive website prototype using the Bluehost platform. Their draft was presented to the Executive Committee, which approved the

concept and encouraged them to move forward with a full redesign. Since that meeting graphic artist, Sue Caufield, joined the team.

The result is our new District 16 website: https://district.d16acbl.org/

This was an arduous task, but I think you’ll agree that the team did a magnificent job. Please take a few minutes to explore the new site – it’s attractive, functional, and works beautifully on mobile devices.

Finally, I would like to extend my sincere appreciation to Sergio Mendivil, who served as our technical webmaster for the previous site. Sergio’s responsiveness was remarkable – whenever changes were needed, he implemented them almost instantaneously. Thank you, Sergio, for your dedicated service to District 16.

Chair/Coordinator Changes

A heartfelt thank you to Rachel Jackson for her outstanding service as our Policy and Procedure Editor over the past several years. During my term, Rachel introduced an innovative improvement – dividing the manual into two complementary parts: Policies and Procedures and Job Descriptions. These two documents are essential guides for the smooth operation of continued on 7

ACBL District 16

Upcoming D16 Tournaments

October 29-November 1 Dallas Fall Sectional

November 3-9 D16 STaC

November 8-9 Austin Fall NLM 0-750 Sectional

November 9-11 Arlington Winter NLM 0-750 Sectional

November 10-16 Puerto Vallarta Regional

November 13-15 Bridge Club of Houston 499er Sectional

December 4-6 Denton Winter I/N Sectional

December 6-7 Austin Winter 0-200 Sectional

December 8-14 D16 STaC

January 1-4 Austin January Sectional

January 10-11 D16 NAP Finals

January 15-17 Denton Winter Open Sectional

January 15-18 San Antonio Ed Rawlinson Sectional

January 19-25 Houston's Barbara Phillips Lone Star Regional

January 28-31 Dallas Winter Sectional

February 5-7 San Miguel de Allende Sectional

February 5-8 Ajijic Valentine Sectional

February 7-8 Austin Winter 0-750 Sectional

February

District 16 Officers

President First Vice President

Jack LaVigne

Jerry Harrington

Second Vice President Executive Secretary

Kristen Onsgard

BJ Sanders

Executive Treasurer Immediate Past President

James Southerland Betty Starzec

Committee Chairs Awards Charity

Jerry Harrington

Karen Nussbaum

Membership Teacher of the Year

TBD

Tournament

Sam Khayatt

Tomi Storey Coordinators

Education Grand National Teams

Patricia Herrera

Scott Nason

Marketing/Publicity Intermediate/Newcomer

Lauri Laufman

Sam Khayatt

STaC North America Pairs

Daniel Jackson

Larry Davis

Financial Verifier Recorder

Jim Woodward

Larry Davis

NABC Correspondent Tournament / Sanction

Scott Nason Applications

Scott Humphrey Lecture Series

Dolores Aquino (I/N), Patricia Herrera (Spanish) & James Moody (Zoom®)

Web Team

Beth Tobias, Ken MacMorran, Sue Caufield & Evvie

Gilbert

District 16

Scorecard Editor

Evvie Gilbert For Submissions, Omissions or Errors, send an email to: D16-ScorecardEditor@d16acbl.org

6700 Middle Fiskville Austin, Texas 78752 (near IH-35 & US290E)

Two-Session Qualifying Event on Saturday Two-Session Final Event on Sunday Saturday Game Times: 10:00 a.m. & 3:00 p.m. Sunday Game Times: 10:00 a.m. & TBD

If eight or less tables are in a Flight, the two-session Final Event is on Saturday.

$14.00 / Person / Session Free Coffee & Refreshments Free Meal on Sunday for Those Qualifying

Please Note: This event is NOT held in conjunction with the previous week’s Austin sectional tournament.

Event Chair: Larry Davis (larrysdavis@att.net, 512-343-6942)

BCA will host extra masterpoint games Friday, January 9 at 11:00 a.m. & 3:00 p.m. and Sunday, January 11 at 10:00 a.m.

Regional Director's Update

By Rebecca Brown Region 9 Director

Bermuda Bowl Champions

District 16 players have captured the crown jewel of bridge competition: the Bermuda Bowl!

The team of six included D16’s Eddie Wold, Bob Morris (non-playing team captain) and Finn Kolesnik, along with Adam Grossack, Kevin Bathurst, Adam Kaplan and John Hurd. Congratulations to them all!

The 47th World Bridge Teams Championships, hosted by the World Bridge Federation, (WBF) were held in Herning, Denmark in late August. Team USA1 beat Denmark in the last of 12 days of competition. Twenty-four teams from around the world entered the event. Other USA teams competed successfully in the D’Orsi Trophy (Senior teams), Wuhan Cup (Mixed teams) and the Venice Cup (Women’s teams.)

While most of us never expect to be able to compete at such a high level, we can learn and be inspired by following the WBF events online on BBO or Lovebridge, which broadcasts generally offer expert commentary.

Fall NABC

Speaking of being inspired by great competition, have you made your plans to play at the Fall NABC? It will be held in San Francisco from November 27-

December 7, 2025. As you may know, the ACBL Board of Directors meets for several days prior to the start of the tournament. Our meetings are always jampacked so I will have lots to report about in next issue.

In the meantime, the board continues to streamline the Codification (the repository of rules and regulations), to work with management on new initiatives for membership growth (like the Sapphire program), to upgrade our IT system, and to continue to monitor and reduce online cheating.

A major change underway is to revise and enhance the shape of our NABC to offer premier events every day (e.g., if you play in a three day event and don’t qualify after day one or day two, there will be an exciting “drop in” National event you can enter rather than having regional events as your only options). This change is also being piloted so that we can access other venues which may be of greater destination interest to members (rather than returning to the behemoth facilities on which we have relied).

Please feel free to email me with questions and concerns at Region9Director@acbl.org

See you at the table!

North American Pairs (NAP) /D16 Finals in January ♠

By Larry Davis D16 NAP Coordinator

The D16 NAP Finals

will be held January 10-11 at the Bridge Center of Austin. There are four flights this year:

0-750 (NLM), 0-3000, 0-6000 and 6000+. If there are 8 or less tables in a given flight, such flight(s) will finish on Saturday.

This event is NOT in conjunction with the Austin Sectional (held 1-4 January). You can see the flyer for more details.

District 16 Star Awards

It’s time to choose one bridge player from your unit for the District 16 Star Award. The award honors volunteers who work steadfastly at the unit level to promote bridge and to further unit activities. Submissions should come from each unit’s president with the recipient’s name, short biography, and photo. Please email your package to Jerry Harrington, District Awards Chair at m_jharrington@yahoo.com so it is received by the deadline: December 31, 2025.

The District 16 Star Awards were established in 1995, formally the Texas Star Awards. Much like the Oswald and James Jacoby Service Award, the District 16 Star Awards are meant to honor worthy volunteers. Unlike the Jacoby Award, the Star awards honor unit level workers for service performed in their own units.

The selection of the D16 Star Award recipient for each unit is reserved to the Board of Directors of that unit. Once a recipient is selected, the president conveys the information to the District Awards Chair. If a unit does not select a recipient, no award is given that year for that unit.

A recipient is eligible to receive only one D16 Star Award, so previous awardees are not eligible. Star Awards will be presented between sessions on Saturday, January 24, at the 2026 Barbara Phillips Houston Lone Star Regional. Please inform your recipients so they can attend and be recognized for their good work.

Recipients will also be recognized in the March/April 2026 Scorecard and on the Awards/District 16 Star Award page of the district’s website.

The Most Beautiful Game in the World ♠

By Patricia Herrera D16 Education Coordinator

Helloeveryone. The year is ending (it went so fast!) and still Bridge is the most beautiful game in the world. Throughout the years, I’ve seen many people doing things to improve their game that sometimes leads to forgetting the very basics of the game. So, this is what we are going to do today.

Do you have a “routine” for when you declare a hand. Most likely just a little bit of one, right?

I want to share what I do to get better at declarer play.

• Review the Auction: Quickly recall what you’ve learned about opponents’ hands from the bidding

• Count Dummy’s Points: Take stock of the dummy’s high-card strength before touching your hand

• Count Your Winners: Identify immediate winners and potential winners in each suit

• Count Your Losers: Estimate where your losers are and whether they can be discarded, trumped, or avoided

• Analyze the Opening Lead: Consider what the lead tells you about length and strength in the suit

• Plan the Play: Decide whether to focus on establishing a long suit, drawing trump first, or protecting vulnerable suits

• Decide on Entry Management: Ensure you have

continued from 1President's Message

enough entries between your hand and dummy to execute your plan

• Choose the Right Timing: Decide the order of play – when to draw trump, when to establish a side suit, and when to take tricks immediately

• Watch Opponents’ Signals: Pay attention to suit preference, count, and attitude signals from defenders

• Adjust as You Go: Be ready to revise your plan based on new information revealed during play

These steps are extremely helpful to me, and I hope they will be for you. So next time you are the declarer, remember your routine and let me know how it goes. Congrats on your future wins!

Remember that the more, the merrier! We are always better together.

Patricia Herrera is a Mexican bridge teacher, player, coach and the Education Coordinator for the ACBL's District 16. She is part of the Women's team representing Mexico in the World Championships. Patricia is also the President of the Mexican Bridge Federation. When she is not playing bridge, she runs a nonprofit consulting firm based in Mexico City called Pontis, and is also a tour guide. You can reach her at: herrerapatricia@gmail.com the district.

Rachel will be succeeded by Lauri Laufman, who previously served as Membership Chair. As of this writing, a new Membership Chair has not yet been appointed. In addition to her new editorial role, Lauri has also agreed to serve as Publicity Chair, where her experience and organizational skills will be a tremendous asset to District 16.

I hope everyone has a nice holiday with family, friends and some fun bridge.

"One advantage of bad bidding is that you get practice at playing atrocious contracts."

– Alfred Sheinwold

Grand National Teams ♠

By Scott Nason D16 GNT Coordinator

TheGNT season is coming soon. There is no unit qualifying required, so you can proceed straight to District Finals. Get your team together and meet us in Dallas or Houston in the Spring.

Four levels will compete in the GNT’s District Finals. The four winners of that event (and possibly more – see below) go on to compete at the GNT Finals in Minneapolis in July 2026. The top flight – the Championship Flight – is open to anyone who is an ACBL member in good standing and who resided in District 16 as of September 1, 2025. To play in Flight A, each member of the team must also have had fewer than 6000 masterpoints as of the August 6, 2025 posting. The Flight B cutoff is 3000 masterpoints. Flight C is limited to non-life masters with fewer than 750 masterpoints. Each team may consist of four, five or six players, but each player must be eligible for the flight in which the team is competing.

The District Finals will be split into two venues. Flights A & C will be held at the Dallas Spring Sectional on March 20-21. The Championship & B Flights will be held at the Houston Election Sectional on April 11-12. (If three or fewer teams compete in

any flight, that event will conclude in one day.) The winners from each flight will advance to the National GNT Finals in Minneapolis in July and will be eligible for an expense stipend if they actually play in the NABC. Note also that if Flights B and/or C have eight or more teams, the top two teams will qualify to compete at the National.

To play in the District Finals, preregistration is required. While more details will be provided closer to the events, registration merely requires emailing the team’s details to Scott Nason at sdnason@sbcglobal.

net

The stipend given to each winning team is now $2400, to be shared equally by each member who actually plays in Minneapolis, while the second-place award is $1800. In addition, District 16 will reimburse card fees as follows: Beginning in round three at the NABC, each player will be reimbursed for their card fees at the rate charged to those who stay in the host hotel, regardless of where each player chooses to stay. Note that card fees are waived by the ACBL in rounds one and two for Flights A, B, and C, but not for the Championship Flight.

For more information, you may consult the Conditions of Contest.

Friday, March 20

Flight C qualifying

District 16 Grand National Teams

2026 District Finals

March 20-21 in Dallas & April 11-12 in Houston

10:00 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.

Flight A qualifying 10:00 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.

Saturday, March 21

Flight C finals (if necessary)

10:00 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.

Flight A finals (if necessary) 10:00 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.

Saturday, April 11

Flight B qualifying

10:00 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.

Championship Flight qualifying 10:00 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.

Sunday, April 12

Flight B finals (if necessary)

10:00 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.

Championship Flight finals (if necessary) 10:00 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.

Formats

for each flight will be based on the number of teams entered. See the Conditions of Contest for the planned formats.

Venues

Dallas - With sectional at the Lovers Lane United Methodist Church, 9200 Inwood Road, Dallas. Houston - With the sectional tournament at 10510 Harwin Drive, Houston.

Stratifications/Eligibility

Every player must be an ACBL member in good standing and must be a resident of D16 as of September 1, 2025.

Masterpoint Limits for Each Flight

• Championship Flight – Open to anyone

• Flight A – Open to players with less than 6,000 masterpoints, as of August 6, 2025

• Flight B – Open to players with less than 3,000 masterpoints, as of August 6, 2025

• Flight C – Open to Non-Life Masters with less than 750 masterpoints, as of August 6, 2025

All teams must preregister with Scott Nason at sdnason@sbcglobal.net no later than March 15 for Championship and B, and by April 6 for Flights A and C. You must supply the names of the players, ACBL numbers and the flight in which you will compete. Card fees will be $64 ($16x4) per team per session.

Tournament Chair: Scott Nason sdnason@sbcglobal.net

Tournament Director: Carolyn Pinto

LaVigne

named District 16 2025

Oswald & James Jacoby Service Award Recipient

By Jerry Harrington D16 Awards Chair

The 2025 District 16 Oswald and James Jacoby Service Award was presented to Jack LaVigne of Houston at the Dallas Labor Day Regional.

The District 16 premier service award was established in 1982 to honor those volunteers who have worked diligently at the unit level and risen to recognition at the district level after many years of outstanding service to bridge.

Nominated by Houston’s Unit 174, Jack served in many capacities including unit president. During his tenure, Jack was tasked with keeping the unit’s Board of Directors focused during the COVID-19 pandemic. After the pandemic caused the closure of one of Houston’s largest clubs and the ACBL, Jack joined a group of Houstonians and formed the Bridge Academy of West Houston and continues to manage the club and its multiple games today.

In 2019, Jack accepted the role of District 16 Recorder as another way to ‘give back’ to our bridge community. He was asked to be the District 16 president. During his first year as president, he was able to coordinate the upgrade of the district’s website.

Jack has proven to be an effective leader and valuable communicator of district business. In recognition of his service to bridge at the club, unit and most of all at district level, D16 is proud to award Jack the Oswald and James Jacoby award for 2025. Congratulations Jack on this well-deserved recognition!

Regional Director Rebecca Brown & Award Winner Jack LaVigne

District 16 Unit Goodwill Awards

It’s time to select two Unit Goodwill Award recipients from your unit. Recipients are selected by each unit’s board of directors. The recipients’ names (only) are submitted by email to the District Awards Chair, Jerry Harrington, by each unit’s president at m_jharrington@yahoo.com. Deadline for 2025 awards submission is December 31, 2025.

The District 16 Goodwill Awards are intended to recognize and honor District 16 players who exhibit a spirit of courtesy, kindness, and tact at the bridge table. These chosen individuals are our ambassadors of goodwill to all other players. Recipients should be frequent players at our clubs and tournaments within their unit, but no masterpoint requirements exist for this award.

Each unit’s board of directors may designate two of its members to receive the Goodwill Award each year. The awards will be given to the unit president for presentation at the unit’s convenience in 2026. If a unit does not select recipients by year end, no awards are given by that unit for that year. A recipient is eligible to receive the Goodwill Award only once, so previous winners are not eligible.

Recipients will be recognized in the March/April 2026 Scorecard and on the Awards/Unit Goodwill page of the district’s website.

New Members

August 2025-September 2025

172 Bettie Armstrong

172 Anne Freitas

172 Becky Hild

172 Linda Madrid

172 Tammy Weakland

173 Melba Elizondo

173 M Eugenia Ferrigno

174 Debra Baggett

174 Grace Davila

174 Dong Don

174 Mrs. Lynn C Dunham

174 Yan Eling

174 Albert Grobmyer

Junior Master (5 MPs)

172 Anne Freitas

172 Angelica Vargas

173 Suzann S Broesche

173 Natalia Garcia

174 Norman R Berlat

174 Nancy Christian

174 Edwin Cordray

174 William Cowsar

174 Guy Curry

174 Dong Dong

174 Maggie Fleming

174 Robert Helm

174 Cynthia Martin

174 Ann Matthews

174 Poonam Mittal

174 Yunong Qi

174 Phyllis Roberts

174 Orville Hunter

174 Mary Leary

174 Yunong Qi

174 Madhav Rohira

174 Zhiyong Wang

174 Yi Yang

174 Barbara Young

174 Wei Yu

176 Amie Anderson

176 Kay Miller

176 Don Smith

183 Charlotte Smart

183 Bob Wands

183 Kathy Wuerz

197 Richard Dickerson

197 Siva Parameswaran

197 Pat Rice

197 Janice Southard

207 Andrew Berry

207 Erkan Borazanci

207 Mary Burke

207 William Hogan

207 Karen Juhl

207 Bill Moore

207 Kathryn Trosky

Masterpoint Milestones

August 2025- September 2025

174 Clifford Venier

174 Zhiyong Wang

174 Kathy B Winn

174 Mary Wester

174 Wei Yu

176 Shala Aziz

176 Guy Buchner

176 Theodore L Dickey

176 Gioia Folefack

176 Elizabeth C Hilbourn

183 Bruce Bent

183 Victor Luechtefeld

183 Thomas Matheos

183 David Plazak

183 Rosalie Reeder

197 Sherry K Blankenship

197 Tricia Grimstead

201 Alyssa Puente

201 Avery Puente

207 Geoffrey Keats

207 Boyce Liao

207 Jonathan P Lustri

207 Diane L Wetzig

225 William Hibbeler

225 Carol Mayorga

225 Pamela Walters Moore

Club Master (20 MPs)

172 Carolee D Moss

172 Stanley Morris

172 Cindy Parker

173 M Eugenia Ferrigno

174 Chris Christopher

174 Sandrea L Galbraith

174 Mr. Jeff S Hutton

174 Mr. Brian R Kashiwagi

174 Walter Oakes

174 Janice Sauve

174 Kaitlyn L Sharp

174 Syed A Tirmizi

174 Mary C Untereker

174 Zhiyong Wang

176 Linda Bellissimo

176 Helen S Dlugosz

176 Johanna Graham

176 Marlys J Platt

183 Paula Bradford

183 Margaret M Gisler

183 Kenton Hefley

187 Susan Case

187 Chase D Knight

187 David Swanson

197 Sue St Clair

197 Pamela E Tipton

201 Bob F Cooper

204 Michelle R Anderson

207 Andrew Black

207Thomas L Browne

207 Caryn Cluiss

207 Ahsan Kabeer

207 Ms. Evelyn Lockwood

207 Nancy McCourt

209 Ms. Toni L Stice

225 Anne Douglas

237 Susan E Klem

254 Jan Brosnahan

254 Timothy M Fisher

Sectional Master (50 MPs)

172 Deborah R Kline

172 Courtney Mayer

172 David A Mayer

174 Danielle G Donnelly

174 Mrs. Brenda K Cunningham

174 Mrs. Charlotte A Johnson

174 Ms. Arlene Phillips

174 Margaret S Sample

174 Mrs. Anita West

176 Laura A Lang

176 Ruth H Nelson

183 Suzy B Stout

204 Sandra Love

205 Joan H Montgomery

207 Terri Fann

207 Jeannie M Phelps

207 Carol L Swartz

207 Dee Willars

225 Sassy Crookshanks

Regional Master (100 MPs)

172 Mr. Edward Nelson

174 Larry D Koenig

174 Karel Kriel

174 Randall E Rollins

174 Angela Shah

174 Ms. Beth Stuart

174 Mr. Marc Sullivan

174 Mr. Don W Williams

174 H Ray Yoder

176 Glenna A Crawford

176 Janice Thompson

183 Kimberly S Lee

183 Mr. Thomas G Mairs

187 Anita Moore

201 Mrs. M Grant

201 Larue Smith

207 Alan Hecht

207 Rebecca Lamar

225 Jamye Dehaan

225 Earl P Wright

NABC Master (200 MPs)

172 Mr. S C Hultquist

172 Mr. Don W Marcott

173 Alicia Reyes Retana

174 Ms. Sharon Kagan

174 Michael Linkins

174 Winnie Mohsenzadeh

174 Mrs. Maribeth W Ramer

174 Mary Shamma

176 Mr. Bruce E Barlow

176 Doris P Sivernell

176 Stephanie J Strom

176 Rose Whatley

183 Stephen A Cox

207 Ms. Mary E Fanette

207 Cole M Musselman

Advanced NABC Master (300 MPs)

172 Ms. Jeanne P Binovi

172 Laurinda Lankford

172 Mr. Jim Roff

174 Pam A Geishauser

174 Lindy Kahn

174 Lesley Kellet

174 Nancy K Small

176 Jyoti Boppana

176 Valerie Lawlor

176 Athena Leung

176 Robert Neal

176 John Redfern

183 Mr. Roger F Farish

207 Dan S Mudgett

225 Mrs. Suzanne K Smith

Life Master (500 MPs*)

172 Louisa Morton

174 Ms. Cheryl D Benash

174 Phyllis A Dillard

174 Mrs. Penny A Dougherty

174 Dr. Marvin K Harris

174 Mrs. Linda J Windham

176 Mrs. Jane Canning

176 John M Ellis

176 Mrs. Susan M Henchal

176 D Lane Mueller

176 Ms. Judy H Noble

176 Mrs. Patsy Rainwater-Maddu

176 Mr. David E Salem

183 Linda Farish

183 David L Lemasters

183 Mrs. Frankie D Lemasters

183 Tom E McCraw

197 Mrs. Darnell A Dingle

207 Ms. Victoria Collins-Becker

225 Mrs. Sara J Weber

Bronze Life Master (750 MPs**)

172 Louisa Morton

172 Ms. Leigh P Primerano

174 Mrs. Jean J Jardine

176. Dr Philip M Brown

176 Mrs. Jane Canning

176 Mrs. Susan M Henchal

176 Gari L Martin

176 Jim H Porter

176 Kathy F Russler

183 Linda Farish

183 Mr. Michael J Tiernan

207 Jim Ferguson

207 Teresa J Mack

207 Mr. Emil F Russiello

Silver Life Master (1000 MPs)

174 Christiane G Deane

174 Ms. Linda M Dellsperger

174 Mrs. Penny A Dougherty

174 Iris Siqueira

176 Karim N Abuhamad

176 Tommie M Anglemyer

176 Ms. Jacqueline C Brown

176 Mr. Jeff Karpeles

176 Mrs. Nancy L O'Fallon

176 Mr. David E Salem

176 Chuck S Thomas

183 Mr. Stephen H Bennett

183 Brian R Eaton

187 Sandra S Musser

187 Ms. Melissa M Plumb

204 Jerre L McAfee

205 Catherine C Gonzales

207 Linda J Gaston

207 Mr. Mark Miller

207 Denise Shade

209 Ms. Sarah Wright

225 Mr. Jimmy Parker

Ruby Life Master (1500 MPs)

174 Mrs. Laura H Chandler

174 Mr. William J Churchman

174 Mrs. Helene Gersch

174 Dr. Marvin K Harris

174 Andrew C Remson

174 James D Rozzell

174 Armand Shapiro

176 John Brennan

176 Ms. Carol M Casey

176 Mr. Mark Pan

176 Mr. David A Sterner

176 Ms. Martha E Ward

183 John E Stephani

183 Mrs. Lynne Trigg

204 Mrs. Alberta N Birk

207 Ms. Sarah Chen

207 Mr. Franklin Mih

207 Clara Wood

225 Ms. Ginger L Rhamey

Gold Life Master (2500 MPs)

172 Mrs. Ann Kuehler

174 Carol H Jewett

174 Mrs. Tomi W Porterfield

176 Mr. Robert O Holliday

353 Mrs. Margaret Kirkland

Sapphire Life Master (3500 MPs)

174 Mrs. Carolyn B Campbell

174 Siraj Jiwani

174 Mrs. Chris J Kollenberg

176 Mr. Dewayne Kimbell

204 Mrs. Judy Wilde

207 Mr. Stan Pushkarsky

225 Mrs. Coleen S Grisham

Diamond Life Master (5000 MPs)

176 Joseph A Gill

207 Jerry Barrett

Emerald Life Master (7500 MPs)

1207 Ms. Pat J McMullin

*Prior to January 1, 2010 - 300 MPs

**Prior to January 1, 2010- 500 MPs

Masterpoint Milestone Messages

Cheryl Benash Life Master Unit 174 – Spring

MyHusband and I moved to Spring Texas in 2014, after he retired to be closer to our family. I played party bridge in Colorado and knew nothing about duplicate bridge or the ACBL but realized I was going to have to learn. As we were returning the U-Haul truck, I saw Bridge Club on a door, and said I’m going to have to go find out what they offer. I walked into the Bridge Club of Houston and got information about upcoming classes. In the 11 years we have lived in Spring, have had many good teachers, and partners who have made this journey an enjoyable one.

My most frequent, Carol Jenkinson, moved to Texas about the same time. We started taking classes together, and developed a great friendship. Playing with her at the recent Dallas/Allen Labor Day Regional Tour-

nament, I received my Life Master status. (See Cheryl’s winning photo in this issue.) Gold masterpoints (MPs) have been the hardest to earn. I have been to many tournaments in Houston, Austin, San Antonio, Dallas, Tyler, Longview, Beaumont, League City and Galveston, and I hope I didn’t forget any. I would have liked to see more regional tournaments in these areas, more than once a year, to have helped earn my gold MPs sooner.

I joined the ACBL in 2014, so to earn my Life Master, I needed 500 MPs total with 50 gold. I sure wish I could have been able to be grandfathered in with 300/25 points.

Something I would have liked to have seen, for those of us that need more gold points are changes in the games at our clubs and I think online too, of offering more than .25 Gold and .33 Gold. Most people feel it was so little that our local clubs opted out of participating in those games, and they’re right. They wanted more points, no matter what color. I would like

to see if it’s gold, be a full point or more award, and maybe 1st, 2nd and 3rd place, as more helpful, yet very challenging.

My next rank is Bronze Life Master, and I need 157 MPs. I think I’d like to look ahead to Silver Life Master and the masterpoint colors needed to attain that goal.

David Connan Club Master Unit 174 – Richmond

Istartedplaying bridge in 1972 and joined a club in 1986 in Gravesend in England where I earned my Club Master but then diverted my attention to refereeing soccer. I later became a class 1 soccer referee.

Over the years, I played social bridge in England, Scotland, Australia and here in USA and joined the Sugar Land DBC last year and the rest is history.

I also run three private bridge games on Monday, Wednesday and Friday at the Sweetgrass Club in Richmond.

Ann Kuehler Gold Life Master Unit 172 – New Braunfels

I learned Canasta as a young kid, it was our family card game. My mother was invited to a Bridge Luncheon so she went next door to ask her friend, Kitty Schneider, to teach her bridge. Mother learned fast and started a bridge club with her Baptist friends. I learned bridge from my mother and got to ‘sub’ in her club.

Fast forward to 1969, when my husband, Joe graduated from UT Dental School. We moved back to our hometown New Braunfels. I ‘subbed’ in bridge clubs and later was ask to join. I was in a bridge ‘foursome’ with Nell Morgan and she introduced duplicate bridge to me. It was a new challenge.

In 1989, I joined Mary Kay (MK) Cosmetics and was trained by Mary Kay Ash. My bridge took a back seat to my Mary Kay Career because we had 3 kids (a son & twins) in college at the same time. Mary Kay said, “You can’t chase two rabbits and catch either one so I focused on my career becoming a MK Director and earning the Pink Cadillac for many years.

Nell would call me to play at her club at the last

minute, and I’d go, knowing I loved my ‘hobby’ and would play when I could. Going to tournaments – was out (chasing 2 rabbits).

When my husband sold his dental practice, we traveled and I didn’t work as hard at my career. One morning I noticed on the back of the bridge Bulletin how many points I still needed to be a Life Master and mentioned it to my husband. He said, “Go for it.” I made sure he understood that would mean going to tournaments and again he said “Go for it. I know you can do it.”

Over the years, I have had some great bridge partners that helped me reach my bridge goals. I was so delighted to learn I achieved the rank of Gold Life Master at our New Braunfels September Sectional that I chaired. What a Wonderful Treat!

Chih-Kuang Lee Club Master Unit 174 – Houston

I started playing bridge about 14 years ago, during my senior year in college. When I was in graduate school in Taiwan, I practiced quite actively – I even spent countless hours working on Bridge Master problems and playing in many tournaments. Around 10 years ago, I visited the U.S. and had the chance to play in the Chicago Nationals, where I met many excellent players.

After starting my Ph.D. studies in the U.S., I only played very occasionally. Now that I have a bit more time after graduation, I’ve been able to return to club games and collect the few black points I was missing to reach Club Master status.

To be honest, this milestone came naturally as a result of simply enjoying playing rather than actively pursuing it. Still, I’m very happy to be part of the bridge community again –the game continues to bring me both intellectual challenge and joy.

Patsy Rainwater-Maddux Life Master Unit 176 – McKinney

WhenI moved from San Angelo to McKinney in December 2011, I had 15 masterpoints and knew very few conventions. I had never taken lessons but was fortunate for the patient bridge players in San Angelo who

shared new information with me every time I played.

My husband and I made the decision to move to McKinney to help our daughter, Chelsea, and our grandchildren who were five and seven years old. Chelsea was diagnosed with brain cancer on January 20, 2011, after experiencing a seizure in her classroom. Our daughter chose to live a “normal life” with brain cancer, teaching until the day before she passed away on September 9, 2014. By 2021, my husband and I became the managing conservators of our grandchildren when they chose to move into our home. We devoted our time at dance and cheer competitions and baseball games. Fortunately, I found my escape at the bridge table.

McKinney Duplicate Bridge Club Formation

I was surprised that I could not find a sanctioned duplicate bridge game in McKinney. My internet search only found recreational bridge at the Senior Center where I discovered a duplicate group that played in another room. After I introduced myself to the duplicate group, my life changed because it created many wonderful friendships and hours of playing duplicate bridge in the metroplex. I learned that the group had attempted to find a place to organize sanctioned ACBL games in McKinney.

I suggested that we consider a plan that was successful in San Angelo to create a public tennis facility. This plan partnered with the local school district and did fundraising to renovate eight existing courts and construct two new ones at a junior high school as well as create a strong membership.

My new bridge friends were receptive to my idea, so we met in my home to form a board of directors for the new McKinney Duplicate Bridge Club. As a retired public information officer for the Texas Department of Transportation, I volunteered to serve as the public relations committee chair. Melba Lancaster was elected president, and our club was fortunate to recruit Dorsey Shaw as our first director. Our next challenge was to find a “home” for our sanctioned ACBL games. Although the McKinney’s recreation department and the mayor would not commit to a permanent location, we tried another venue. The Salvation Army has been a perfect partnership by scheduling our games in their gym where we have as many as 18 tables on Tuesdays and Thursdays since 2012.

Visit back to San Angelo

After the McKinney club was established, I returned to San Angelo to visit friends and to play at

the bridge studio. When my partner asked me if I had made many new friends in McKinney, I immediately responded: 140 friends! This was our McKinney membership enrollment at that time.

I will never forget our members who believed in our new club, including the players who attended our daughter’s funeral. The hours of playing bridge in McKinney and at ACBL regional and out of state tournaments allowed a way for me to cope with my grief.

Re-Earned Life Master

Although I reached Life Master a few years after moving to McKinney, I lost this status in 2020. I did not renew my ACBL membership or play in McKinney games or ACBL regional tournaments for almost four years. However, following my daughter’s positive attitude, I knew the timing would be right someday to continue my love of competitive bridge and enjoy the camaraderie that this game offers.

Dan Mudgett

Advanced NABC Master Unit 207 – Austin

Ifirstplayed bridge in college with my girlfriend and her parents. It was a different game then. I played in several lunch hour games and non-sanctioned games over the years. My first sanctioned game came after I retired in 2016. It has been a lot of fun since. I play five times most weeks. I will be attending sectionals and regionals whenever possible as I now need silver, red, and gold masterpoints.

Carolyn Skonberg

Club Master

Unit 174 – La Grange

Bridge has been a part of my life since I was nine years old, when I first learned the game from my parents, both avid players. My sister, eight years my senior, was already hooked, and our parents needed a fourth to complete the table. That’s how I became the youngest player in our family’s nightly ritual, gathering after dinner to deal cards and strategize. Those evenings around the dining table sparked a lifelong passion for the game.

The blend of skill, psychology, and partnership in bridge has kept me captivated for decades. Now, as a

retiree, I’ve channeled that love into a new goal: earning masterpoints and sharpening my game. Becoming a Club Master is a milestone I’m proud of, but it’s the joy of every bid, every play, and every moment shared with fellow players that keeps me coming back. Bridge isn’t just a game – it’s a lifelong pursuit of challenge and connection, and I look forward to many more hands in the years ahead.

Wei Xu Advanced NABC Master Unit 174 – Sugar Land

Ijoinedthe ACBL just two years ago, and my progress to Advanced

NABC Master has been an incredible journey. I've been fortunate to learn from wonderful partners and opponents who have generously shared their knowledge and experience with me.

Squeezing time to play bridge while still working full-time is not easy, but the game has been incredibly rewarding. A highlight of my bridge career so far was representing District 16 in the Grand National Teams Flight C in Philadelphia this year, where my team tied for 5th place. It was my first time traveling to another city for bridge, and it was a wonderful experience. I also played my first NABC+ pair event there. Playing with and against high-level players taught me so much, and I'm excited to keep learning and playing.

D16 + Club

Cliff Smith & Heather Sanders 81%

Pittsburg – Pittsburg DBC

Gary Blaiss & Robbie Butts 79.37%

Lubbock – LLano Estacado Bridge Club

Gina Schultz & Robbie Butts - 70.19

Lubbock – LLano Estacado Bridge Club

Kaz Bell & Martha Sigler - 70.09%

Beaumont – Beaumont Bridge Studio

Carol McGill & Susan Pennington - 76.25%

Beaumont – Beaumont Bridge Studio

Carl McGill & Louetta Green 75.93%

Beaumont – Beaumont Bridge Studio

San Angelo – Fort Conhco (Unit 204)

Paul Nimmons & Youssef Youssef 74%

Houston – Bridge Academy of West Houston

Mark Leighton & Sanjay Santhanam 73.5%

Pittsburg – Pittsburg DBC

Nancy Green & Sally McAnulty 73.44%

Tyler – Rose City DBC

James Breihan & Pattie Mullendore 72.16%

Houston – Bridge Academy of West Houston

Julie Halperin & Jeff McKee 71.59%

Conroe – Lone Star Bridge Club

Audley Karrasch & Loretta Cross 71.43%

Houston – Bridge Academy of West Houston

Monica Schapira & Sandra Sarnow 71.35%

Mexico City – CDMX Bridge Center

Gary Blaiss & Greg Loran 71.25%

Lubbock – LLano Estacado Bridge Club

Judy Adams & Norma Lunsford 71%

Canton – Van Zandt DBC

Shawn Quinn & Jimmy Breihan 70.93%

Houston – Bridge Academy of West Houston

Kris Cherry & Joanne Pledger - 70%

Beaumont – Beaumont Bridge Studio

Dean & Michele Domec - 70%

Beaumont – Beaumont Bridge Studio

Reporting D16 70% + Games

TheD16 70% + Club recognizes members who have scored 70% or higher scores in one of the district’s club masterpoint games that is open or non-restricted club game. 70% + Games must be reported to Scorecard. The club director, manager or any player may send an email with the subject: D16 70% + Club.

Be sure to include the club’s name and location. Games will be reported on a first come, first served.

By Betty Starzec

Salute to District 16 Members of The Winning 2025 Bermuda Bowl Championship Team

District

16 salutes district members Eddie Wold (Unit 174 – Houston), Finn Kolesnik (Unit 207 – Austin) and Bob Morris (Unit 174 – Houston) that were part of USA 1 that won the 2025 Bermuda Bowl in Herning, Denmark. Team USA 1 consisted of Eddie, Finn, Kevin Bathurst (Unit 128 – Palm Beach Gardens, Florida) , Adam Grossack (Unit 108 – Newton, Massachusetts), John Hurd and Adam Kaplan (Unit 128 – New York City, New York) with Bob as non-playing team captain.

The Bermuda Bowl contest, the oldest and most prestigious World Bridge Federation Championship, grew out of private initiatives principally by the late Norman Bach and took the name from Bermuda where the first contest was held in 1950, eight years before the World Bridge Federation itself was formed. Eddie and Finn also go down in the history books because of their ages! Eddie became the oldest player in history to win this event, and Finn became the youngest American player ever to win!

District 16 also salutes members of the d'Orsi Senior winning teams of USA 1 for coming in first and USA 2 for coming in third. Congratulations also to our own legendary Mike Passell (Unit 176 – Plano) whose team placed third in the Transnational Teams. We also recognize all participants that were formerly from D16!

Bob Morris, Finn Kolesnik, Kevin Bathurst, Eddie Wold, John Hurd, Adam Grossack & Adam Kaplan

Unit 172 - San Antonio

By Ellen Hessel

New Braunfels September Sectional

Ican’tsay enough about the fabulous tournament put on in New Braunfels by Ann Kuehler and her crew. The convention center there is quite spacious and the hospitality leaves everyone with a smile on their face. Lots of out of towners showed up including a group of folks from San Angelo, some of them for the second year in a row! Hope to see everyone back next year.

New Webmaster

Meantime, our Unit 172 website has been graciously placed in the capable hands of Daniel Jackson who is going full steam ahead. Be sure to give him a nod or a high five next time you see him to let him know how much he is appreciated.

Holiday Parties

Lots of holiday celebrations are in the cards. Please join us for our Unit Holiday Party on Saturday, December 13 at St. Thomas Episcopal Church starting at 11:30 a.m. with a potluck meal (unit providing turkey) and the bridge game starting at 12:30 p.m. – the cost, a mere $5. The Fiesta Bridge Club Holiday Party will be on December 10 – Laurie Levin says that everyone is welcome and that club sponsors will play free. Hill Country Bridge will host their Holiday Party on December 10 with potluck beginning at 11:00 a.m. and bridge game at 11:30 a.m.

September Unit Game Results

On Saturday, September 20, Jo Neesvig and David Mayer organized a 20-table unit game at St. Thomas Episcopal, with Larry Levin serving as director. Overall results are: In A, Rosemary Kelly and Bill McCarty secured first place with a 64.6% score. Beverly Santos and Charles Jefferson were second and Sheryleen Grothus and Everette Lewis finished third. In B, Albert Fulton and Martin Hester were first. K Voges and Moshe Draznin followed in second place. Jacquelyn Fisher and Ginny Littrell ranked third. In C, Ken King and Stanley Morris claimed first place. Gwynne Mayer and Jennifer Zimmerle were second. Michael Lichowski and Carly Lichowski placed third. U172 extends our sincere appreciation to all participants, as well as to those who contributed food and provided invaluable support behind the scenes.

Happy holidays to all – enjoy your bridge!

Unit 174 - Houston

By Sarah Springer

Message from Unit 174 President Betty Starzec

Plans are moving full speed ahead for the Barbara Phillips Lone Star Regional, January 19-25, at the Westchase Marriott, our home for the last few decades. You will notice you can reserve your room by using the QR code on the flyer or clicking HERE on the flyer in this issue or from the flyer found on our website or calling directly. We hope these options make it easier to reserve your room.

Cindy Shoemaker, who is anticipated to be elected ACBL President this month, will be coming to our regional. In addition, there will be many celebrations at the regional including for our own district players that were part of the of the 2025 Bermuda Bowl winning team, a Club Appreciation Day, an announcement of the Teacher of the Year, and recognition of the District Star award recipients. Please plan on enjoying the fun, friendly competition and Texas-size hospitality at our regional!

See you at the tables!

Future Life Masters

The Future Life Masters (FLM) of Unit 174 is a board sponsored program with the mission to support and develop the newest players (0-99 masterpoints) in Greater Houston Bridge. FLM is a resource center featuring information about classes, games and tournaments with a freestanding website.

FLM Weekend F2F Games

49er Game

Play in Person Every Sunday Afternoon Game time: 1:30 p.m.

Bridge Club of Houston

4876 Louetta, Spring 77388

$5.00

Betty Starzec

99er Game

Play in Person Every Saturday Afternoon

Game time: 1:00 p.m.

Clear Lake Bridge Club

16614 Sea Lark Road 77062

$6.00

99er Game

Play in Person Every Tuesday Morning

Game time: 10:30 a.m.

Bridge Academy of West Houston 10510 Harwin (Shriners) 77036

$7.00

All Clubs Welcome Singletons! EVERYONE PLAYS!

News from Unit 174 Clubs

Apple Duplicate Bridge Clubs

Weekly Game Schedule

Open games are held on Monday and Friday at 11:30 a.m. at the Tracy Gee Community Center, 3598 Westcenter.

Bridge Academy of West Houston Harry and Friends – Birthday Party

On Wednesday, October 8, the club celebrated a lively October birthday party hosted by Sherry Withers in honor of her regular partner, Harry Selldin, along with fellow October celebrants Debbi Balter, Judith Hoffing, Shirley McKee, and Linda Rensi. The event was filled with laughter, good cheer, and plenty of bridge hands shared among friends.

Harry is one of our club’s dedicated volunteers – he faithfully makes the coffee every Wednesday, puts out the sign, and ensures the director’s board is ready for play. His helpful spirit and friendly smile set the tone for so many of our games, making this celebration a well-deserved tribute.

Jimmy Breihan – Emerald Life Master Party

On Thursday, October 9, the club celebrated Jimmy Breihan for achieving the distinguished rank of Emerald Life Master. In addition to being an outstanding player, Jimmy is admired for his cheerful personality and wonderful sense of humor at the table.

Jimmy & Jennifer Breihan Jimmy's EmeraldLife Master Celebration

His wife, Jennifer Breihan – also a talented player and one of our club’s directors – hosted a lovely party in his honor, with help from Lynne Andress, Linda Drake, Hallie Eads (Peaches), Diana Gittelman, Linda McReynolds, Patty Mullendore, Kathy Pfluger and Betty Starzec. The event drew a large turnout, reflecting just how popular and well-liked Jimmy is among our members. Everyone enjoyed the festivities and joined in honoring this well-deserved milestone.

Eddie Wold, Bob Morris – World Championship Party

On Wednesday, October 15, the Bridge Academy held a special celebration in honor of the USA1’s victory in the 47th Bermuda Bowl Team Championship. We are especially proud that Eddie Wold and Bob Morris were key members of the world-champion team. What an honor it is for our club to count such distinguished players among our members. if you missed it, you can read more about team USA1 in this issue.

Harry & Friends Birthday Party

Our thanks go to Betty Starzec, Dianna Gittleman, Hallie “Peaches” Eads and Patti Mullendore for hosting a splendid party, complete with delicious food and joyful camaraderie. It was a wonderful way to celebrate this remarkable achievement and the champions who made us proud.

Carol Jewett – Gold Life Master Celebration

On Wednesday, October 22, the club celebrated Carol Jewett in recognition of her achievement in reaching the rank of Gold Life Master. Though Carol has a quiet and unassuming manner, her skill at the bridge table speaks for itself – her name often appears among the winners, and she succeeds with a wide variety of partners, a true sign of flexibility and strong play.

Beyond her accomplishments as a bridge player, Carol is one of our club’s valued volunteers. She keeps our snack supplies organized, prepares the refreshment table, and even washes the tablecloths before our games – all without fanfare. Carol is also the District 16’s I/N Newsletter Editor. Her gracious demeanor and friendly spirit make her a pleasure to play with and a cherished member of our bridge community

Mentor/Mentee

Mentor/Mentee games are held on the first Tuesday of each month at 10:30 a.m. The next games are

scheduled for Tuesday, November 4 and December 2.

If you have not yet signed up, you can register online by clicking here. Mentees must have fewer than 300 masterpoints.

Eight is Enough Swiss Teams

The Eight is Enough Swiss Teams are held once a month on Sundays at 1:30 p.m. The upcoming games are November 23 and December 21.

Weekly Game Schedule

The Bridge Academy of West Houston hosts games at 10:30 a.m. at the Arabia Shriners.

• Tuesdays: Open pairs game. On the first Tuesday of each month, a mentor/mentee pairs game is also held.

• Wednesdays: Open and 0–299er pairs games.

• Thursdays: Open and 0–99er pairs games.

Bridge Club of Houston

Bridge Lessons

• Tuesday Tidbits

Tuesday Tidbits – Build a solid foundation with Susan Banks-Johnson, Bronze Life Master and ACBL Teacher. Enjoy a FREE lesson for all from 9:30-10:10 a.m. A game follows at 10:30 a.m.

Email Susan for more information. Susan has a special guest teacher, Thomas Rush, planned for November 4.

Beginner Bridge & Other Classes

Make sure to check out the website to find their schedules and see what is new for 2026.

Practice for I/N Players

FLM 0-49 Game

The FLM 0-49 Game is on Sundays at 1:30 p.m. Please see the FLM section of the Unit 174 report for more details. For questions, you may contact via email or call BridgewithCarol@gmail.com or call 936-6508180.

Mentor/Mentee F2F

Mentor/Mentee games are held the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month at 10:30 a.m. To be matched with a mentor for the second Tuesday game, contact Judy Cupps by email at judy_n_al@yahoo.com or by phone at 713 320-5592. For the fourth Tuesday game, phone/text Bob Zeigler at 713 829-6928.

Online Mentor/Mentee Games

Online Mentor/Mentee games are held the first

World Champion USA1 Team Members

Eddie Wold & Bob Morris

Carol Jewett Gold Life Master

and third Mondays at 7:00 p.m. (The Mentee should invite and pay for the mentor). Contact Mike Linkins at mlinkins@swbell.net if you have any questions.

Online 0-20 Game

The Online 0-20 games are held the second Saturday of the month at 9:00 a.m. (usually).

Saturday F2F 299er Game

Saturday F2F 299er game is held every weeken at 12:00 p.m. (noon). To find a partner or to register please contact Kas Rangan at kas.rangan@gmail.com or call at 539-210-1333.

5th Tuesday 0-1000 F2F Game

Make sure to check the BCOH website for more information.

Game Schedule Recap

F2F Open Pairs

Mondays: 10:30 a.m.

1st and 5th Tuesdays: 10:30 a.m.

Wednesday & Fridays: 10:30 a.m.

Saturdays: 12:00 p.m. (noon)

F2F Swiss Teams

3rd Tuesday: 10:30 a.m.

Online - Choose Houston on BBO Thursdays: 7:00 p.m.

See the SE Carolina Club of Clubs for more information.

You can read more about all of our games at the BCOH website.

November 1-2 Red Hot Challenge

November 3-5, 7-8 Unit 174 STaC

November 10 Grass Roots

November 12, 14 Club Membership

November 13-15 449er Tournament

November 17-19, 21, 23, 29 Club Championship

November 22 Thanksgiving Party, ACBL Pop-Up Game

November 23 8 is Enough Swiss Teams

November 24-26, 28 Stardust

December 1, 3, 5-6 Club Championship

December 2, 7 Club Membership

December 7 Handicapped Swiss Teams

December 8-10, 12-13 Unit 174 STaC

December 13 Holiday Party

December 15-17, 19-21

Stardust Week

December 21 8 is Enough Swiss Teams

December 24-25 Club Closed

December 26 Silver Quest

December 27 ACBL Pop-Up Game

December 30 1000 Point-Limited Game

December 31 New Years Party

Good Times with Good Friends

Check the BCOH Website for more including details, potlucks and points each week.

Kas Rangan (right) New Gold Life Master

Julie & Fred Halperin 60th Wedding Anniversary

Bill Daniels (with sons, daughter and sister-in-law) Memorial & Game

Clear Lake Bridge Club

CLBC is located at 16614 Sea Lark, Houston 77062. We close for Unit 174 tournaments, Thanksgiving and Christmas. You can reach us at 281-480-1911.

Game Fees

Our game fees are $6.00 for members ($7.00 for guests). If you are a frequent guest, it is probably a good idea to become a member because our annual dues are only $25.00/year.

Weekly Game Schedule

Games are held every day of the week. Please arrive at least 15 minutes before game time.

Open games are held Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday mornings at 10:00 a.m., and Thursday and Saturday afternoons at 1:00 p.m.

I/N games are offered five days per week as follows:

0-199 games are on Saturday at 1:00 p.m.

0-299 games are on Monday and Wednesday at 2:00 p.m.

0-749 games are on Tuesday at 10:00 a.m. and Thursday at 1:00 p.m.

Swiss Teams games are on Sunday afternoons at 1:00 p.m.

If you are interested in playing in the teams games, please register by calling the club or signing up in person at least one day prior to the game so that the director can set up the game on time. Chuck Ensor will assist anyone to organize a team for any teams game. You can call Chuck at (713) 501-0282 or email him at cwensor@sbcglobal.net

Eight is Enough Teams games are usually held on the second Sunday each month, unless otherwise stipulated. Check the CLBC website for accurate calendar information.

The Swiss Teams stratifications are:

Level 1 – 0-749 masterpoints (1)

Level 2 – 750-1999 masterpoints (2)

Level 3 – 2000+ masterpoints (3)

Example: A team with one Level 3, two Level 2 and one Level 1 players total is 8 (3+2+2+1). The requirement is that the team’s total must be less than or equal to 8.

Mentor/Mentee (M/M) Open games are the third Wednesday at 2:00 p.m. each month.

Mentees must be Non-Life Masters with less than 500 masterpoints. The game is held after the morning Open game. Sandwiches are served for lunch between the games. Reservations must be made no later than

noon on the Monday prior to the game. Mentees pay the game fee for both the M/M. For Information please visit mentor-mentee program or contact Susan L. Hanna, M/M coordinator, at s.l.hanna@gmail.com

Bridge Labs (Supervised Play)

Bridge Labs are Sundays and Tuesdays from 2:005:00 p.m. The table fee is $8.00. Please check out the website for new classes offered in 2025.

On Monday, December 8, the club will celebrate a special club member, Rick Stell. Rick has unselfishly supported the club in myriad ways over the years, many times behind the scenes, especially with the maintenance of the club building. He has also presented bridge lessons during our Breakfast Lesson series and continues to mentor many of us. Come join us as we appreciate him!

Lake Conroe Duplicate Bridge Club

Lake Conroe Duplicate Bridge Club is a very welcoming and friendly club. We have players from all levels, so players new to duplicate will feel comfortable; and seasoned players will find a challenge.

We would like to invite you and your bridge friends to join us every Friday. We meet at the Restoration Church, 107 Fish Creek Thoroughfare, Montgomery.

When you enter the parking lot, drive around to the back of the property to the parking lot of the newer Worship Center and the Children's Church building. We currently have our games in the Children's Church building lobby. It is an easier access with no steps or ramps.

We begin playing at 10:30 am. The game fee is $5.00. We always offer snacks, sweet and savory, and coffee and iced tea. We will take a break midday, so please bring your lunch. There is a refrigerator, ice maker, and a microwave for your use if needed.

If you need a partner for our Friday game, please contact Carol Meade at 281-543-4541 or email her at meadecm@icloud.com, and she will do her best to find you a partner.

November Schedule

• November 7 -Unit 174 STaC (Silver masterpoints)

• November 14 - Junior Fund & November Birthdays Celebration Cake

• November 21 - Regular Club Game

• November 29 - Thanksgiving Day, CLOSED

Lone Star Bridge Club

Lone Star Bridge Club holds games at St. Paul Methodist Church at 1100 West Semands Street, Conroe.

Open games are held on Mondays at 11:45 a.m. and Thursdays at 10:30 a.m.

A Mentor/Mentee game is held the third Tuesday at 10:30 a.m.

Free Lesson

Diamond Life Master Jeff Kroll gives a free lesson the first Monday of every month at 11:00 a.m. Game Fee is $5.00.

For more information visit our website or contact Club Manager Mary McDonald 281-964-7212.

Sugarland Bridge Club

Games are every Tuesday beginning at 9:30 at Lago Mariscos Mexican Seafood Restaurant, 2329 Hwy 6, Sugar Land. If you have questions about the games, you can contact Mariah Stopper at 713-817-6899 or email her. Players are invited to stay for lunch at the restaurant following the game.

Unit 176 - Dallas

By Bill Driscoll

Dallas Labor Day Regional (DLDR) Summary

Dallas Labor Day Regional (DLDR) Summary: The 2025 DLDR had a good turnout thanks to all of you who came out to enjoy the competition. We had a total of 959.5 tables over 6 days of play, 68% Swiss teams and 32% pairs. The overall table count was up 27.5 tables from last year, but 178.5 fewer than in 2023.

Many thanks to our numerous volunteers without whom the tournament would not have been possible, including: tournament co-chairs Tomi Storey and Ed Yetter, hospitality chair Debor Cassen, partnership chair Mary Chaffin, Daily Bulletin editor Scott Nason, caddie manager Gerrie Owen, equipment managers Chuck Eastin and John Redfern, photographer Randy Eads, and others who assisted including Jackie Brown and Connie Scott. Special appreciation to our lunchtime lecturers, Scott Nason, Stefanie Scott, Kristen Onsgard, Valerie Remmers and Scott Humphrey, who

gave of their time, expertise, and teaching skills to provide interesting and informative instruction. Click here for Tournament Results. Make sure to see our tournament winners in this issue.

Unit 176 Board Election

Election of three Unit Board Members will be held from mid-December through January 10. The candidates are Cheryl Brunson, Darlene Campbell, Bob Holliday, Ruth Nelson, and Judy Wood. Candidate bios and photos can be found on the Unit 176 website. Voting will be done online. Unit members may vote for up to three candidates. Please contact a current board member if you are unable to vote online. The three-year terms for current board members Connie Scott, Bob Holliday, and Bill Driscoll are expiring. Bob is up for reelection, while Connie and Bill are leaving the board.

Unit Game Recaps

September 7 Unit Game Results

The September 7 Unit Game Open Pairs had 1 5 tables. Section Winners were:

Elaine Wood & Nancy Fellman (N/S, Strat A), Ari Sippola & Pawel Hanus (E/W, Strat A), Janet Meyer & Gail Wingfield (N/S, Strats B & C), Athena Leung & Reg Watt (E/W, Strat B), Judy Wood & Kurt Smith (E/W, Strat C).

The Unit Game 499 Pairs had 2 tables; the Winners were tied:

Carolyn Dickey & Ted Dickey and Jenny McCall & Mike Mansfield.

Click here for the September 7 Unit Game Results. October 5 Unit Game Results

The October 5 Unit Game Open Pairs had 18 tables. Section Winners were:

Florence Beaird & Nancy Stanton (N/S, Strat A), Susan Flick & Ann Parker (E/W, Strats A & B)

Stephen Birnbaum & Bob Butterfield (N/S, Strat B)

Sandra Fedro & May Sebel (N/S, Strat C), Iyoti Boppana & Walter Netschi (E/W, Strat C).

Click here for the October 5 Open Pairs Results

The Unit Game 499er Pairs had 3 tables. Winners were:

Liz Williams & Barbara Pittenger (Strat A), Carole Cohen & Susan Mossbum tied with Meeta Sawla & Katheryn Austin (Strat B) . Click here for the October 5 499er Pairs Results.

Unit 176 Mentor/Mentee Program

This program provides new and advancing (<750 MPs) players with an opportunity to improve their game by pairing with a Mentor (>750 MPs). M/M pairs agree to play as partners in sanctioned games (either F2F or online) at least twice a month. More details and a sign-up link are available on the Unit 176 Website. We need more mentors so please consider signing up.

U p c o m i n g E v e n t s

Dorsey Shaw Birthday Celebration

Monday, November 3, 10:30 a.m. at the Friendly Bridge Club in Plano, Lunch will be provided. Unit Game

Sunday, November 16, 12:30 p.m. at King of Glory Lutheran Church, hosted by Friendly BC, Unit Holiday Party & STaC Game

December 14, 12:30 p.m. at King of Glory Lutheran Church. Hosted by Friendly Bridge Club. Please bring a favorite dessert to share at the hospitality table. You can register to participate in these events by clicking here.

STaC Week

December 8-14

2026 Tournaments

January 28-31 Winter Sectional, Holiday Inn Richardson, 1655 N Central Expwy, Richardson 75080, 972-238-1900.

March 18-21 Spring Sectional, Lovers Lane UMC

September 2-7 Labor Day Regional, Renaissance Hotel, Richardson

November 4-7 Fall Sectional, Lovers Lane UMC

Unit 183 - Fort Western

By John Coe Robbins

Successful Unit Board Election Unit

183 held a successful Election

Sectional October 16-20 with more than fifty tables taking part in the pairs’ competition at the enlarged Fort Worth studio in addition to eleven four-person Swiss teams. Kudos to all the participants and volunteers from clubs around the unit who helped make it happen.

The election tally on the final day returned current unit president David Branch to the board of directors, along with tournament chairman/coordinator Randy Eads. Arlington board member Doug Berke was elect-

ed to fill the expiring term of member John Robbins.

The board has announced a unit game for Sunday, December 2 at the Fort Worth studio. Details will appear on the unit website.

Caution

A note of caution: President David Branch says because his email address and those of other officers are listed on the website, spammers have been sending fake emails asking for money for supplies or other concerns. Please delete those, report them as SPAM and avoid responding.

Bitcliffe Coup proposed Amendment

In the interest of advancing recognition of special achievements in the game, I would hereby like to propose an addition to the five-step Biltcliffe Coup, originally described by David Byrd in 1985.

The Biltcliffe Coup:

• your opponents have bid to part score

• you overcall

• they bid on to game

• you double

• they make the game

This in itself is quite an accomplishment, but if opponents only make their game because, in your frustration, you lead out of turn, you should be credited with a Royal Biltcliffe Coup and perhaps entitled to an extra libation after the game.

Unit 201 - Sabine Neches

By Linda Briggs

September/October Fun

September kicked off with the traditional Labor Day hot dogs party before the bridge game. October included team games, quest for gold points and Halloween costumes and party food.

Sabine Neches Local Sectional Recap

Sabine Neches Local Sectional Tournament, October 9-11 was co-chaired by Val Townley-Smith and Susan Pennington. Partnerships was chaired by Linda Briggs. Ed Rasmussen directed. The tournament had over 53 tables for the 6 sessions.

Unit 201 members provided lunch, snacks and chances on a silent auction and “Split the Pot” lottery. Lucky winners were Susan Pennington and Kris Cherry.

Results from the Sabine Neches Sectional were: Top Pairs in A - Wilbur & Verna Dalquist (2 ses-

sions), Marilyn Adams & Jimmy Breihan (2 sessions), Bob & Val Townley-Smith, Zane & Teresa Bolen. B - Bob & Val Townley-Smith (2 sessions) Zane &Teresa Bolen (2 sessions), Bill & Debbie Nash, Gretchen Lindquist & Lesley Kellet. C - Gretchen Lindquist & Lesley Kellet (2 sessions), Margaret Jackson & Phyllis Mann, Gay McAlister & Cordelia Cottingim.

son & Maxine Moye, Lindy Kahn & Ann Jennings, Susan Gore & Janis Williams, Tim Stelly & Pat Bell, Dean & Michele Domec, Susan Gore & Linda Briggs, Jerry Gore & Jerry Heckman, Linda Briggs & Patsy Pierce, Loretta Gary& Arline Meyers, Charlotte Garrett & Tom Watson, Loretta Gary & Ann Jennings, Margaret Jackson & LaRue Smith and Joanne Pledger & Kris Cherry.

Christmas Celebration/Bling Party

Plans are underway for Christmas Celebration and a potluck lunch December 17. Also, members will have the traditional “Bling Party” to honor those who have achieved Silver, Ruby, and Sapphire ranks on January 21.

Check out the D16 70%+ Club to see all our members who scored 70%+ games since our last report.

Unit 204 - Fort Concho

By Troy Harvey

Aswe head into the final stretch of 2025, our bridge family has much to celebrate – from milestone birthdays and personal achievements to new ranks and growing friendships. The Fort Concho Bridge Club continues to thrive with camaraderie, skill, and plenty of laughter along the way.

Louetta Green is 90

Other players earning points were John & Nancy Smalley, Karen Jennings & Bob Echols, Susan Gore & Lou Rising, Marilyn Adams & Timucin Erkoc, Wayne Outlaw & Susan Pennington, Margaret Jack-

Louetta Green turned 90 years young this summer and celebrated in grand style with an opera singer and an appearance from “Elvis” himself. In 1984, Louetta served as the project assistant for the creation of the Elvis Fan Club Cookbook, organizing a worldwide collection of recipes from fans. The project raised over $30,000 in memory of Elvis, and the proceeds funded

Tournament Co-Chairs Val Townley-Smith & Susan Pennington

Partnership Chair Linda Biggs

Tournament Director Ed Rasmussen

Split Pot Lottery Winner Susan Pennington

Split Pot Lottery Winner Kris Cherry

Louetta Green & Elvis

a striker frame bed for the Presley Trauma Center. Louetta’s favorite recipe from that successful cookbook is the banana pudding. To top off her birthday celebration, she and Carl McGill earned a 75.93% game on October 5, 2025, in a five-table club championship, bringing home some well-deserved silver points.

Ingrid Rich is 94!

Another wonderful celebration was held in honor of Ingrid Rich, who turned 94 this year! Ingrid is both a lovely lady and a talented bridge player. We wish her many more years of good health and great games.

Alberta

Birk New Ruby Life Master

The Mason, Texas club has reason to celebrate as well. Bridge Director Alberta Birk achieved Ruby Life Master status, representing more than 1,500 masterpoints. Alberta remains a fierce and respected competitor at the table. Along with this bridge milestone, she and her husband also celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary. Congratulations on both remarkable accomplishments, Alberta.

Judy Wilde New Sapphire Life Master

Closer to home, our own club personality Judy Wilde reached Sapphire Life Master status, exceeding 3,500 masterpoints. For many of our newer players, when the bidding gets tough, the saying goes, “What would Judy do?” She continues to inspire us with her

advice, humor, and sharp play. Congratulations, Judy

Winners’ Circle

Some of our newer members are also making their mark. A big shout-out goes to Carol Bennett and Michelle Anderson, who have been frequent visitors to the winners’ circle lately. Carol Bennett and Hope Garza recently earned first place in a four-table game, while Michelle Anderson and Nancy Greer captured first in another four-table event. Michelle also teamed up with Carol Diminnie to take first place at a five-table game with over 60%, helping Carol reach Bronze Life Master status with more than 750 masterpoints. Keep up the great work and keep the pressure on the seasoned players.

In early August, the dynamic duo of Janis Dismukes and Vicky Fisher scored a 69.44% game with five tables. This pair has topped 70% in recent months and consistently performs at a high level. According to the Common Game report, they placed first out of 58 pairs. Congratulations to both on another impressive performance.

New Ruby Life Master Alberta Birk

Carl McGill & Louetta Green 75.93% Game

Ingrid Rich & her Daughter, Rikki Rich

New Sapphire Life Master Judy Wilde

Michelle Anderson & Nancy Greer

Carol Bennett

Janice Dismukes & Vicky Fisher

Slam Pot Winners

Mother and daughter team Paige Ragsdale and Peggy Jackson once again won the Slam Pot with a 7 Diamonds bid. It appears Paige walked away with the cash and Peggy with the change.

Thank you

John Osborne & Neal Perlman

The club would like to thank John Osborne for removing a dead tree from the parking lot and Neal Perlman for his hedge trimming. A new Yard Committee, headed by Carol Diminnie, has been formed to help maintain the grounds. Members interested in helping with landscaping are encouraged to reach out to Carol.

Charity & Donation Chair

Club member Deborah Dawkins has volunteered to serve as Charity and Donation Chair, with support from Hope Garza and Carol Diminnie. They will also provide guidance on the best use of private donations made to the club.

Book/Magazine Donation

Carl McGill recently donated several bridge books and magazines to the club library, located in the back room. Members are welcome to browse, borrow, or keep them. Muchas gracias, Carl.

Director & Trainer Marifrances Watson

Club Director and Trainer Marifrances Watson has launched another bridge training group. While smaller than hoped, her continued dedication to teaching and growing our membership is appreciated. Marifrances, a certified Tournament Director, plans to refresh her skills by shadowing the San Antonio tournament director in preparation for our upcoming San Angelo Sectional, scheduled for March 13–15, 2026. Thank you, Marifrances, for your leadership and commitment to the club.

Fun time at the September New Braunfels Sectional

Our members also had an exciting time at the New

Braunfels Tournament. With 158 players competing and 827.62 masterpoints awarded, San Angelo attendees carved out an impressive 32 masterpoints.

Game Reminders

Fort Concho Bridge Club offers games five days a week, all beginning at 1:00 p.m. Games are directed by Marifrances Watson on Mondays and Fridays, by Julie Moorman on Wednesdays and Thursdays, and by Carol Diminnie on Tuesdays. All games are open. Julie keeps her sessions fun and focused with her clever SNACKS reminder: Silence your phone, No talking, Appropriate behavior, Clean up after yourselves, Kibitzing rules, and Sort your cards.

These reminders are drawn from the “Leveling Up” podcast by Adam Parrish. One of the featured guests, Bob Hamman, noted, “It’s hard to solve a problem if you don’t know what the problem is.” Another guest, Bart Bradley, shared, “It’s hard to remember what you don’t see. Concentration is key.” He also emphasized four fundamentals of toughness: table presence, concentration, logic, and the will to win. His message – “Be a tough opponent. Don’t be bothered by conditions” – is a great lesson for all of us. These quotes were submitted by club member Neal Perlman, who helps us stay focused and improve as players.

Texas Independence Sectional Tournament

Looking ahead, we are thrilled to host our Texas Independence Sectional Tournament in San Angelo

Paige Ragsdale & Peggy Jackson

Some of the Gang at New Braunfels

Julie Moorman & SNACKS

on March 13–15. Mark your calendars. Information can be found on the District 16 website on the Calendar and Tournament page. You can also contact Tournament Chair Joy Foster at 325-716-8190 via email joyf77@wcc.net for more information.

As 2025 draws to a close, our Fort Concho family continues to shine – celebrating milestones, friendships, and the shared joy of bridge. Here’s to another year of learning, laughter, and high scores together in 2026.

Unit 209 - Great Permian Basin

By Ann Parish

Allison Bridge Center Changes

Allison Bridge Center in Midland is undergoing some changes. We have gotten a newly resurfaced parking lot, complete with new striping, several more handicapped spaces, and a new ramp for wheelchairs. We even have new drainage, so we don’t have a small lake when we get one of our West Texas Downpours. Special thanks to Scott Dau.

We have also begun a new capital campaign for an air conditioning system. We currently have two air conditioners, with two thermostats, which may or may not work together or even work at all. So Marty Massie, our treasurer, has started a campaign to raise thousands of dollars to replace the whole HVAC system and possibly make some other upgrades.

We have started a Saturday afternoon game in Midland, so we now have games every day except Monday.

New Club Master

Congratulations to our new Club Master, Toni Stice!

Players of the Month

Our Non-Life Masters for November and December are bridge partners Ann Brooks and Mary Tift. Ann Brooks

Family: I am the youngest of four children and was born and raised in San Angelo. I have a son, a daughter-in-law, and one grandson living in Midland. My husband passed away eight years ago; we had been married 53 years.

Career/Job: I am retired now, but while in San Angelo I worked for Johnson's Funeral Home for many years. In Midland I was the office manager and bookkeeper for Anderson's New Locations. We lived in the Dallas area for about ten years, and I worked for Kelly Services when I wanted to.

Non-bridge activities: I love anything to do with music. I enjoy going to Wagner-Noel Performing Arts Center in Midland for concerts and going to surrounding areas to listen to good music. I have faithfully attended church all my life. I enjoy being with family and friends here in Midland and in San Angelo. I love to read, play "42", and any other games available.

How I learned bridge: I took a class taught by Belle Harris about ten years ago to learn bridge. I still struggle with it but love playing with my bridge partner, Mary. We met while attending the same class.

Mary Tift

Mary Tift

December Player of the Month

Family: I was born in Emporia, Kansas. I am the oldest of four children. I live with my cat, Shandon. He was found in my mother-in-law’s yard after she passed. I have three daughters, two of whom are twins, and eight grandchildren.

Career/job: I worked as a secretary for an oil company. I am now retired.

Non-bridge activities: I love anything old. I live in an old house – 86 years old. I love old movies. I love murder mystery shows, movies, and books. My favorite author is Agatha Christie. I am in an antique club, I line dance, and I love going to Mass every day.

How I learned bridge: I saw an ad in the newspaper and signed up. My teacher was Belle Harris.

Cooler Weather & Slams

We are looking forward to cooler weather and lots of bridge. Keep up your bidding and make some slams!

Ann Brooks

Pittsburg

Unit 225 - East Texas

By Gary Britt Club News

DBC

From Linda Harrison, PDBC Director

The Unit 225 Game at a Small Club

Pittsburg DBC (PDBC) hosted the Unit 225 Game on Saturday, October. The game was held at PDBC’s usual location, the American Legion Building, 525 Elm St, Pittsburg. This is the first rotation for various clubs to host the Unit Game.

Special thanks to everyone who pitched in and made it possible. Following the Friday game, the PDBC players helped re-arrange and decorate the tables with a festive fall theme!

On Saturday October 11 the board members arrived at 11:30 a.m. to hold their usual monthly meeting. PDBC players showed up with lots of food to fill out the main table, a Taco Bar. The taco meat was donated by Karen and Jerry Bell, and lots of other PDBC players brought all the trimmings. Frank Harrison made his famous queso and Linda Bolton brought a crockpot of chili. Then, there was a table full of delicious desserts as well as coffee, tea, and water.

The meal started at 11:45 a.m. when American Legion Commander, Frank Harrison led us in a Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag. Linda Edmondson followed with a blessing, and then everyone enjoyed the meal.

Just prior to the game PDBC Director, Linda Harrison, welcomed everyone and recognized the directors from various clubs. There were players from clubs in Pittsburg, Longview, Tyler, and Texarkana.

The game kicked off at 12:30 p.m. with eight even tables and Unit Director, Mike Graham in charge. It was an afternoon of food, visiting, fun and bridge. Also, it was a great opportunity to meet new players and reacquaint with friends!

A BIG THANK YOU to PDBC players for hosting the first rotational game. There were many positive responses!

P R E V I O U S L Y:

Royal STaC Week – Tuesday, October 21 and Friday, October 24. Everyone earned extra masterpoints in this special sectional tournament at clubs!

Halloween Party – Friday, October 31 with Costumes!

U P C O M I N G:

Linda Harrison’s 80th Birthday Potluck Lunch

– Friday, November 7. Celebrate Linda’s milestone birthday with a potluck lunch before the game.

Christmas Party – Friday, December 5 at 11:30 a.m. Enjoy lunch and good company, followed by a special holiday game.

Nacogdoches DBC

From Gay Roach

Ourlittle Club keeps gliding along with a stumble here and a success there. We had two 2-1/2 table games this last quarter, but then we had a 4-table game October 13th – 13 turned out to be lucky for us!

We are fortunate to have dedicated players who just want to play F2F bridge!

I remember when I first came to Nacogdoches, I didn’t play bridge at all, but the local duplicate club had about three games a week and those results were published every week in the local paper – the Daily Sentinel (now the twice-a-week Sentinel). I always read those results.

Then I became a real estate broker and my picture and name were in the paper every Sunday and I not infrequently wrote articles about real estate for the paper. But I had also started playing duplicate bridge.

As the years went on, and I would run into bankers or new clients or friends or parents of friends of my children, etc., they would remark how they had seen my name in the Duplicate Bridge Results. I always swore that more people in Nacogdoches knew that I played bridge than that I was a successful real estate broker!

Unit 225 Game Players & Director

Gay Roach

Unit 233 - Central Texas

By Linda Pitzer

Wacobridge clubs have welcomed two new players: Patsy Sitton and Emma Trepinski. Monday Slammers Club enjoyed a pizza party with 22 playing bridge with us on October 6.

The Waco clubs meet on Monday (Monday Slammers), Tuesday and Friday (Sul Ross Club) at 1:00 p.m. with Cathy Valentine as club manager, and on Thursday (0-750 Club) at 12:30 p.m. with Geoge Holmes as club manager. Temple’s Bridge Studio of Temple meets on Sunday, Wednesday and Friday at 1:00 p.m. with Gene Thompson as club manager.

Waco clubs are pleased to be the 2025 host for the Christmas Party and ACBL-Unit Championship Game on December 4 at Waco Harrison Senior Center located at 1718 N. 42nd Street in Waco. A catered lunch will begin at 12:00 noon with the game following lunch. We hope to have 10 or more tables with members from both Waco and Temple for this event.

Unit 353 - Wichita Falls

By Marsha May

Unit 353 Games Relocated

Unit 353 has relocated because of an unfortunate occurrence on July 15. Dave Hertzog has been a long-time director and owner of The Bridge Club of Wichita Falls and he held games every Tuesday and Saturday. Both clubs in Unit 353 played at Dave’s pool house. Dave had a stroke on July 15, and even though the family was very willing to let us continue to play bridge at this location, the Unit 353 Board of Directors did not feel that was fair to Dave or his family. Helen Cash (our newest board member) found us a new location.

Pizza Hut Comes to the Rescue

Jamie Marshall is the Manager of Pizza Hut at 4311 Kemp in Wichita Falls, and he is letting us play in Pizza Hut’s Board Room. The Board Room is larger

than our previous location and has plenty of nice card tables and chairs set up. Doors close this area off from the restaurant and we are enjoying a lot of pizza.

Dave Hertzog’s Condition

Dave’s stroke was an interior brain bleed which affected certain parts of his memory. The good news has been that his physical condition is very good and he has been optimistic that his memories of bridge will continue to improve. Anne Hoover, Carol Shelby and Lois Roberson went to Dave’s house to play bridge with him and although he got tired, he did very well. They have plans to continue going to his house to play each week until he feels comfortable enough to play at the clubs again.

Pizza Hut Manager Jamie Marshall & Helen Cash

Lois Roberson, Dave Hertzog, Anne Hoover & Carol Shelby

New Sanctions

Pat Roinson is the Director and Owner of Suite 16 and has sanctioned Dave’s Tuesday games along with her games on Thursday. Cathy Zinn is an ACBL Director and has sanctioned Dave’s Saturday games. She is now the Director and Owner of Cathy BC.

Unit 353 is small in numbers but our members are incredible and deal well with the unexpected. We are grateful that Dave is doing better and better each day and we send a BIG THANK YOU TO HELEN, JAMIE AND PIZZA HUT!

* Robert D. Crawford, Houston

Marlene K. Feddema, San Antonio

* Mrs. Betty Freedman, Houston

Mrs. Cornelia H. Freeman, Austin

* B Paul Hirsch, Garland

* Steven E. Kaplan, Angleton

Jane K. Larimore, Fort Worth

In Memoriam

Martin P. Meer, League City

* Esther M. Moore, Garland

Donald Reid, Houston

Tom Whitesides, Dallas

Randall G. Wilson, Desoto

*Life Master

Betty Knobler Freedman 1928 | 2025

Betty Knobler Freedman passed away peacefully on Friday, October 24, 2025, with her loving family by her side.

Betty was predeceased by: her husband Milton Freedman; her parents, Goldie Knobler and Izzy Knobler; and her brother Ivan Knobler. She is survived by: her children, Marc (Twilight Freedman), Don "Duck" (Martha Freedman), Judy (Ronnie Yambra) and Linda (Nelson Block); her grandchildren, Monica, Warren Snideman, Wendy, Ryan Peterson, Jennifer, Ray Holsomback, Gary, Tessa Anderson, Brian, Justine Anderson, Henry, Arin Freedman, Emily Freedman, Sam, Auna Freedman, Ilana, Amy, Gage Mueller, Steven Yambra, Lauren, Jason Lourie, Lisa Yambra, Adam, Jocelyn Block, Tirza Block, Jordan and Chana Block; her sister-in-law Sylvia Freedman; and her sibling's children, Elaine Epstein, Cindy Freedman and David (Cathy Knobler).

A memorial service was held on Monday, October 27th in Houston at Congregation Beth Yeshurun. In lieu of flowers, for those who wish to honor Betty's memory, donations may be made to Congregation Beth Yeshurun's Sam Freedman Fund.

Standing: Cathy Zinn & Pat Robinson

Seated: Margie Brown, Margaret Kirkland & Faye Morrison

Games & Classes for Newer Players - Come Join us!

0-99 Masterpoint Game: Every day at 6:00 p.m. (CT)

The 99er Nite Club East games are offered seven days a week at 6:00 p.m. If you are a 99er, ask your club if they are participating. Your club must "opt in."

0-199 Masterpoint Game: Every day at 6:00 p.m. (CT)

The 199er Nite Club games are offered seven days a week at 6:00 p.m. If you are a 199er, ask your club if they are participating. Your club must "opt in."

For more information email Janice_Hardcastle@hotmail.com

Click here to see the flyers for the Nite Club Games

Lecture Series

Zoom® Spanish Lecture Series - Third Saturday of every month at 12:00 p.m. (México City), 1:00 p.m. (CT)

November 15 & December 20 – TBD

Zoom® Intermediate/Newcomer Lecture Series - Fourth Saturday (Except December will be the Second) of every month at 12:00 p.m. (CT) 11:00 a.m. (Mexico City)

November 22 – Presenter: Vic Quiros, Topic – TBD (will be at 11:00 CT)

December 15 – Presenter: Thomas Rush, Topic – TBD

Click Zoom® Link for either lecture.

Remember that if you are unable to attend the live lecture, all are recorded so you can watch when you have the time. They are located on the D16 website under the Lectures & Training menu.

District 16 Teacher of the Year

Is there a bridge teacher who has inspired you? Now is the time to reward that individual’s enthusiasm, passion and patience! Celebrate your teacher! Nominate your teacher for the D16 Teacher of the Year award.

The nomination process works like this:

1.You ask your teacher if he/she would like to be nominated.

2.Your teacher agrees.

3.You send an email to district16TOY@gmail.com with your teacher’s contact information.

4.We take it from there.

Please submit nominations by November 30, 2025, so that your teacher has time to put together a portfolio by December 31, 2025.

The winner will be announced at the 2026 Lone Star Regional.

November 13th - 15th, 2025

4688 Louetta Rd, Spring, TX | 281-651-6550 | thebridgeclub@sbcbglobal.net

Event Schedule

Thursday thru Saturday Nov 13th – 15th Single Sessions

499er Pairs 10am

499er Pairs 2pm

Stratification*

A (300-499) B (100-300) C (0-100)

* Strats may be modified by Director

Need a Partner?

Contact Kas Rangan 539-210-1333

kas.rangan99@gmail.com

Ambassador available for all sessions.

Notes

BCOH is a fragrance-free facility. Life Masters with less than 500 pts can play.

Tournament Chair

Zane Bolen zbolen@comcast.net

Entry Fees

(Per Session - Cash Only)

Current ACBL Members

Lapsed ACBL Members

$12

$16

ACBL number required to play. 120 day guest membership available free at https://www.acbl.org/membership/

Snacks / Lunch

Free snacks and drinks. Lunch available for $8 Cash each day.

Lodging

SpringHill Suites 20303 Chasewood Park Dr., Houston, TX 77070 offers a rate of $105 + tax per night, and free cancellation 24 hours before check-in. A block of rooms is not reserved for tournament. Rooms depend on availability. Contact hotel at 832-953-2223, ask for Imagine Peels and mention BCOH Bridge Tournament.

December 6th - 7th

Saturday & Sunday, 1:30 pm

Entry Fee: $10 per session

($14 per session for unpaid ACBL members)

J Strat A : 100-200

K Strat B : 50 - 100

Ö Strat C : 0 - 50

Strats may be adjusted at Director’s discretion

Chairs: George Watkins • 512-335-1158 tarzan.watkins@gmail.com Nola Ray • 512-831-8801 raynola57@gmail.com

General Questions & Partnerships: unit207contactus@gmail.com

♥ Austin Fall Sectional Winners ♦ Unit 207

Thursday, September 25 - Saturday, September 27 - Open Pairs

Thursday AM - A

Ron LaCour, Stephen Olson

Friday PM - A

Thursday PM - A Anne Lacour,

Saturday AM - A

Friday AM - A

Saturday PM - A

Sunday, September 28 - A/X Swiss Teams

Steven Wood, Kim Brinkmanm, Kathryn Bailey, Robert Donathan

Denton Fall Local Sectional Winners ♦ Unit 183

Thursday, October 2 - Saturday, October 4 - Open Pairs

Thursday AM - N/S

Thursday AM - E/W

Thursday PM - N/S

Thursday PM - E/W

Beth Tobias, Pam Lashelle

Bill McCarty, Daniel Jackson

Paul Tobias, Pam Lashelle

Pat McMullin, Jimmy La Fountain

Pam Lashelle

Alan Copeland, Jo Smith

Nancy Kornegay, Stephen Kornegay

Sue Mazzucco, Frank Mazzucco

Nancy Kornegay, Stephen Kornegay

Dallas Fall Sectional Oct 29-Nov 1, 2025

Lovers Lane United Methodist Church 9200 Inwood Rd. Dallas, TX 75220

Snacks and Drinks Every Day! Cashless Payments Only!

Wednesday, October 29

Stratified Open Pairs and 499er Pairs (Single Sessions) 10:00 am & 2:30 pm

Open Stratified Swiss Teams (2 Sessions) 10:00 am & 2:30 pm

Thursday, October 30

Stratified Open Pairs and 499er Pairs (Single Sessions) 10:00 am & 2:30 pm

Friday AM - N/S

Chuck Mogged, Jan Mogged,

Saturday AM - N/S

Doug Berke, Kamal Das

Friday AM - E/W

Alan Copeland, Jo Smith,

Saturday AM - E/W

Ellen Lane, Michael Hayes (np)

FridayPM - N/S

Darlene Campbell, Gari Martin (np)

Saturday PM - N/S

Chuck Mogged, Jan Mogged,

Friday PM - E/W

Nancy Kornegay, Stephen Kornegay

Saturday PM - E/W

Peter Hudson, Jin Chu

Sabine Neches Fall Sectional Winners ♦ Unit 201

Thursday, October 9 - Saturday, October 11 - Open Pairs

Thursday AM - AB

Friday AM - C (Tied)

Gretchen Lindquist, Lesley Kallet

Saturday PM - A

Thursday AM - C

Friday PM - AB

Val Townley-Smith,Bob Townley-Smith

Saturday PM - B

Thursday PM - ABC

Friday PM - C

Phyllis Mann, Margaret Jackson

Saturday PM - C

Friday AM - A

Friday AM - B

Saturday AM - A

Verna Dalquist, Wilbur Dalquist

Saturday AM - BC

Tournament Co-Chairs

Val Townley-Smith & Susan Pennington

Teresa Bolen, Zane Bolen

Jimmy Breihan, Marilyn Adams

Val Townley-Smith, Bob Townley-Smith

Teresa Bolen, Zane Bolen

Verna Dahlquist, Wilbur Dahlquist

Debbie Nash, Bill Nash

Gretchen Lindquist, Lesley Kallet

Marilyn Adams, Jimmy Breihan

Gretchen Lindquist, Lesley Kallet

2026

Texas Capital Bridge Unit 207

Texas Capital Bridge Unit 207

JANUARY 1-4, 2026

Bridge Center of Austin p 6700 Middle Fiskville Rd.

Free Coffee & Snacks

STRATIFICATIONS

(Pair & team games based on average MPs)

Open Pairs & Stratified Swiss Teams:

(Thursday – Saturday)

A: 3000+, B: 750-3000, C: 0-750

299er Pairs:

A: 200-300, B: 100-200, C: 0-100

No player may have over 300 MPs

Sunday Stratiflighted Swiss Teams:

A: 3000+, X: 0-3000, B: 1500-2500, C: 500-1500, D: 0-500

No player with over 2500 MPs can play in the BCD Swiss

All stratifications are at the director’s discretion

Basic Chart for 299ers

Basic+ Chart for BCD Swiss

Open Chart for all other events

This is a Fragrance-Free Tourney

Thurs, Jan 1st - Sat, Jan 3rd

Stratified Swiss Teams, single session 10am, 2:30pm

Open Pairs, single session 10am, 2:30pm 299er Pairs, single session 10am, 2:30pm

Sun, Jan 4th

Stratiflighted A/X & BCD Swiss Teams

10am & TBD

$140 per 4 per son team, includes lunch

Additional player s, $6 each Entry Fees: $14/session

Students and players with 0-5 Masterpoints pay $7 per session Thursday-Saturday

($4 additional per session for unpaid & non-ACBL members)

This is a CASHLESS ONLY Tourney

Chair: Mark Craig, 55mcarney@gmail.com, 512-496-8190

Partnerships: Brett Leach, unit207contactus@gmail.com

Online Partnership Requests For This Tourney Opens December 8th, 2025. Use this link: http://tinyurl.com/atxbridge

Director in Charge: Kevin Perkins

Wednesday AM - A Venkatrao Koneru, Greg Hinze

♥ Diane Olson Election Sectional Winners ♦ Unit 172

Wednesday, October 15 - Friday, October 17 - Open Pairs

Wednesday AM - B

Albert Fulton, Tessa Bodnar

Thursday AM - C

Zane Bolen, Teresa Bolen

Friday AM - BC

Leigh Primerano, Louisa Morton

Wednesday AM - C Cindy Parker, Stanley Morris

Thursday PM - A

Friday PM - A

Brian Bankler, Roxana Tom

Thursday AM - A

Robert Martin, Barbara Morgan

Friday AM - A

Friday PM - B

Sam Williams, Jr, Jo

Thursday, October 16 - 0-499 Pairs

AM - AB

Stanley Morris, Cindy Parker

Thursday AM - B Albert Fulton, Joe

Wednesday, October 15 & Saturday October 18 - Stratified Swiss Teams

Wednesday PM - A

Donna Swarthout, Ed Rawlinson, Gary Anziani, Dave Swarthout

Wednesday PM - C

Matt Giffin, Carol Ellis, Andrea Williams, Steven Kassarjian

Saturday - A

Ed Rawlinson, Dave Swarthout, Donna Swarthout, Gary Anziani

Saturday - B

Homer Stevens, Stephanie Stevens, Susan Hernandez, Marifrances Watson

Saturday - C

Matt Giffin,

Ramirez

Patty Hinze, Greg Hinze

Roxana Tom, Brian Bankler

Neesvig

Anita Ramirez, Donnelle Blahuta, Bob Watson

Two Tournaments in One Sectional & I/N Regional Winners ♦ Unit 174

Friday, October 17 - Saturday, October 19 - Bracketed Swiss Teams

Friday - Bracket 1

Gil Micheletti, John Zilic, John Du Bose Jr, John Erickson

Saturday - Bracket 1

Sally Wheeler, Buddy Hanby, Mike Doyle, Joe Quinn

Friday - Bracket 2

Sam Khayatt, Nadejda Drenska, Frederick Gregory, David McDonald

Saturday - Bracket 2

Kathy Sinkin Amor, Donna Hrachovy, Sarah Springer, Martin Hrachovy

Friday - Bracket 3

Chloe Ella Fackenthall, Lesley Kellet, Jim Middleton, Joseph Baker

Saturday - Bracket 3

Marilyn Slaughter, Sheryl Thomas, Brian Dudley, William Shepherd

Friday - Bracket 4

Lauri Laufman, Mariah Stopper, James Woodward, Raymond Stopper

Sunday - Bracket 1

Buddy Hanby, Sally Wheeler, Jack LaVigne, Joe Quinn

Friday, October 17 - Saturday, October 18 - Open Pairs

Sunday - Bracket 3

Syed Tirmizi, Gunjan Singh, Chris Whitelonis, Fali Tamboly

Saturday AM - A

Anthony Bianchi, Gary King

Saturday PM - A

Clif Rice, Mark Howard

Friday AM - A

David Dyer, Lois McCallister

Friday PM - A

Ralda St Pierre, Jack LaVigne

Silver Life Master Martin Hrachovy, Unit 174, Houston

Life Master Mary Vagnoni Unit 174, Houston New

Sunday PM - B

Lindy Kahn, Sharon Kagan

Ba rbara Ph illips

January 19-25, 2026

Marriott Houston Westchase

2900 Briar Park Drive, Houston, TX 77042 (713) 978 -7400

• $135 Special Bridge Rate

• Reservation Deadline: January 4, 2026

• Scan the QR Code to book instantly

• Direct online booking by clicking HERE

• Call 1-888-236-2427 and ask for the ACBL Bridge Rate

Tournament Chairs

Betty Starzec (713) 562-2568

lstarzec@comcast.net

Brigitte Sandifer (713) 703-1319

sandiferdb@gmail.com

Partnership I/N Hospitality

Linda McReynolds (713) 819-7812

lindamcreynolds@comcast.net

Karen Nussbaum (832) 524-5233

Karenunit174@gmail.com

Partnership Chair

Lesley Kellet (713) 852-7198

lellybean@msn.com

Naming Events

Marsha Bernstein (713) 857-6088

marshabernstein@att.net

Mini-Soloway KO Teams

Bracketed Teams

Bracketed Pairs

Gold Rush Pairs

Newcomers 0-20 Game

Complimentary ACBL labels

▪ Houston 174 is happy to print ACBL labels for you!!

▪ However, to do so you MUST MAIL your info by Saturday, Jan 17!!

▪ Email to:

lsrlabels@gmail.com

▪ Include Name, City, State, ACBL #

▪ Pickup at Hospitality Desk

▪ No labels can be printed during the tournament

 Exciting New Events

 Awards at Hospitality Desk

 Welcome Gift

 Hot Dog Lunch on Friday

 Expert Lecturers between

Future Life Masters

The FLMers are players with 0-99 MPs.. Sessions

 99er games Mon-Thu & Sat

 FLM Day is Tues with raffle prizes

 FLMers can play in GOLD Rush Mon-Wed & Fri-Sat

 Win more GOLD in Bracketed Pairs

Only on Thursday

Separate section with peers

Top players are in their own section

 0-20 Game on Fri & Sat

The Fun is Just Beginning!

Monday, January 19

Ba rbara Ph illips

January 19-25, 2026

Friday, January 23

(1 of 6)

Side Series (1 of 6) 2:30

Side Series (1 of 6) 7:00

Tuesday, January 20

(2 of 6)

Saturday, January 24

Round Robin Teams

/ 2:30

Series (2 of 6) 2:30

Side Series (2 of 6) 7:00

Wednesday, January 21

Wed-Thur Soloway Style KO 10 & 2:30 (Continues 10 & 2:30 Thursday)

Flight Pairs

Pairs

/ 2:30

Pairs 10 / 2:30 Afternoon Side Series (6 of 6) 2:30 Evening Side Series (6 of 6) 7:00

Sunday, January 25

& 2:30

Series (3 of 6) 7:00

Thursday, January 22

Bracketed Round Robin Teams 10 & 2:30

Bracketed Pairs 10 & 2:30 Morning Side Series (4 of 6) 10 299er Pairs 10 / 2:30 99er Pairs 10 / 2:30

Afternoon Side Series (4

Stratification & Flighting

Top Flight Pairs: A: 6000+ B: 0-6000

Mid-Flight Pairs: B: 1500-3500 C: 0-1500

Open Pairs: A: 3500+ B: 1500-3500 C: 0-1500 Side Pairs: A: 2500+ B:

Pairs:

Soloway Style KOs are bracketed and will be a 2session Round Robin qualifying event with the top 4 teams playing two sessions on the second day to determine first to fourth place. Bracket sizes will be 9 to 11.

Bracketed Pairs is a 2session event where pairs are organized into groups of similar MP levels. MP awards based on the strength of the field.

Double session events are indicated by & and Single Session events by /

Side Series Games are a series of single-session pair games that are open to all players. You may play in as many sessions as you like, but only pairs who play in at least two sessions in a series are eligible for Overall GOLD Points. Participants may enter as many sessions as they wish and play with the same or different partners.

Bracketed Pairs: Bracketed by attendance

Open Bracketed KO Teams Bracketed by attendance

299er Pairs: Stratified at Director's discretion

99er Pairs: Stratified at Director's discretion 0-20 Pairs: Stratified at Director's discretion

• Strats are determined by MP average, but no player may exceed event limit.

• Strats may be adjusted by the director to balance for strength of players.

♥ Dallas Labor Day Regional Winners ♦ Unit 176

Wednesday, August 27 - Sunday, August 31 -Bracketed Swiss Teams Games

Wednesday - Bracket 1

Nancy Kornegay, Mark Bumgardner, Steve Kornegay, Kimmel Jones

Wednesday - Bracket 8

John Burgess

Brenda Darby, Dave Lemasters, Frankie Lemasters

Thursday - Bracket 5

Anne Goodman, Glenda Cooper, Bill Brooks, Ken Melvin

Friday - Bracket 1

Gary Bush, Ellen Hessel, Ira Hessel, Barry Schaffer

Wednesday - Bracket 2

Steve Birnbaum, Jim McCommons, Bob Butterfield, Eileen Davidoff

Thursday - Bracket 1

Ellen Hessel, Gary Bush, Ira Hessel, Barry Schaffer

Thursday - Bracket 6

Victoria Collins-Becker, Tommie Anglemyer, Maria Gregorat, Janet Borg

Friday - Bracket 2

Jim McCommons, Paul Taylor, Ed Yetter, Eileen Davidoff

Wednesday - Bracket 3

Martha Ward, Sharon Ward, Mary Chaffin, Erika Walker

Thursday - Bracket 2

Bob Scallan, Mike Chockley, Terry Wolfe, Bill Driscoll

Thursday - Bracket 7

Gary Britt, Jo Britt, Tom Spradlin, Carol Kinsey

Friday - Bracket 3

Lauri Laufman, Paddy Fiorino, Brigitte Sandifer, Jim Woodward

Wednesday - Bracket 4

Lynn Trigg, Chuck Mogged, Fred Seipp, Jan Mogged

Thursday - Bracket 3

Valarie Remmers, Jeff Karpeles, Feza Buyukdura, Dale Remmers

Thursday- Bracket 8

John Burgess, Brenda Darby, Dave Lemasters, Frankie Lemasters

Friday - Bracket 4

Marsha Boyer, Carol Wilson, Debbie Nash, Bill Nash

Wednesday - Bracket 7

Gary Britt, Jo Britt, Tom Spradlin, Carol Kinsey

Thursday - Bracket 4

Carol Wilson, Marsha Boyer, Debbie Nash, Bill Nash

Thursday- Bracket 9

Marilyn Knatz, Marit Hornes, Jill Spence, Leon Gertsch

Friday - Bracket 5

Reg Watt, Tom Lang, Maria Gregorat, Janet Borg

Friday - Bracket 7

Barbara Taylor, Gretchen Cash, David Salem, Dan Butler

Friday - Bracket 8

Jo Britt, Gary Britt, Tom Spradlin, Carol Kinsey

Saturday - Bracket 4

Patricia Stille, Connie Scott, Walter Netschi, Anne Goodman

Friday - Bracket 9

Cindy McShane, Judy Crabtree, Tawana Arnett, Dolores McCuistian

Saturday - Bracket 5

Susan Kroney, Susan Moss, Linda Lindley, Sharon Ward

Friday - Bracket 10

Jyoti Boppana, Doris Sivernell, HP Goel, Mollye Morris

Saturday - Bracket 7

Louise Shanley, Elizabeth Brown, Gari Martin, Patty Degenhardt

Saturday - Bracket 2

Alan Josephson, Stuart Litwin, Jerry Barrett, James Moody

Sunday - Bracket 2

John Schwartz, Scott Nason, Eric Diamond, Bob Friz

Monday, September 1 -Stratified Swiss Teams

A

Kristen Onsgard, Jim Johnsen, Ira Hessel, Ellen Hessel

B (Tie)

Kathy Russler, Athena Leung, Phil Brown, Jyoti Boppana

B (Tie)

Mary Lynn Genovesi, Valerie Remmers, Dale Remmers, Bob Holliday

Wednesday, August 27 - Saturday, August 30 - Open Pairs

Wednesday - B

Bob Scallan, Michael Chockley

Wednesday - C

Karen Bell, David Worrall

Saturday - A Nancy Kornegay, Steve Kornegay

Thursday PM - A

Bruce Mann, Margot Hirsch

Saturday - C Sue Mazzucco, Frank Mazzucco

Saturday - Bracket 3

Ross Ramsey, John Brennan, Brian Eaton, Truett Cates

Sunday - Bracket 4

Kamal Das, Bob Dixon, Jan Mogged, Chuck Mogged

Friday - C

John Redfern, Cheryl Brunson

Sunay - B

Rebecca Brown, Stan Pushkarsky

Wednesday, August 27 - Saturday, August 30 - Gold Rush Pairs

Wednesday - A

Friday - A

Wednesday - C

Saturday - A

New Life Masters

June Kiley, Robert Kiley

D Lane Mueller, Patsy RainwterMaddu

Loralee Berg, Fran Shelton

Mary Kolb, Janice Thompson

Life Master Cheryl Benash, Unit 174, Spring

Life Master Darnell Dingle. Unit 197, Lubbock