BRIDGE TIP FOR JANUARY

LIBRARY CORNER

Stop bidding as soon as there is evi- Marty Sez. . .Bergen’s Bevy of Bridge Secrets dence of a misfit. Marty Bergen

The book jacket points out that this book is unique because

H.W. Kelsey each page contains exactly one tip. Clever one-liners at the top of the pages are designed to help the reader remember the tip. Example: “Sandwich —Yummy,” “Vive La Differ- A Little Bridge Humor ence” (when partner’s bid follows his initial pass), and “If You [sic] Got It, Flaunt It” (bidding 1NT in competition to show This lady, Charlotte, plays very slowly. She is asked to 18-19 HCP after partner passes your opening bid). A glossary speed it up a bit. She says: "I'm sorry, but I can't think is included at the end of the book should the and play bridge at the same time." reader not understand the author’s terminology. Larry Cohen is quoted as saying this book is Eddie Kantar “definitely a home run.” Be sure to check it out. UNIT 206 CHIT CHAT Volume 4 Issue 1 Monthly Publication of ACBL Unit 206 January 2013 Editor: Sandy Cervantes Assistant Editor: Cheryl Whitfield Staff: Teresa Moore Features Editor: Marcia Lanphear Myra Reneau

DO YOU KNOW… If I should open 1NT with a five-card major?

According to the experts, there is no “right” answer…just opinions. But, currently most experts favor opening 1NT with a —that is 5-3-3-2 distribution. With 5-4-2-2 distribution, expert ad- vice varies, and many prefer opening the . The difference hinges on your rebid after opening a Imajor. For example, Larry Cohen says, “if you don't open 1NT, you will have a major (pardon the pun) headache when it comes time to rebid.”

Marty Bergen is even more adamant: “Whenever you have a balanced hand and the appropriate point count, open 1NT. Do not be distracted by a five-card major. There are absolutely no exceptions. Life will be much easier when you open 1NT with a five-card major and a balanced hand. You will not have a rebid problem, and your part- ner will immediately know about your strength and balanced distribution.”

Say you have this hand:

♠Q T If you choose to open 1H, what will be your next bid? Your partner may answer with a bid of 1S. ♥A Q T 4 2 If you bid 1NT, you are showing 12-14 HCP. On the other hand, if you bid 2NT, you’re saying you ♦K J 2 have 18/19 HCP. For this is reason, many experts favor the 1NT opening. If you open 1H, it will be difficult to show your 16 HCPs. ♣K J 3

As with all things “bridge,” there is a disadvantage. By opening 1NT, you may miss a 5-3 major-suit contract. Nevertheless, conventions such as Puppet Stayman (which we will feature in next month’s newsletter) can pre- vent this. Larry Cohen strongly defends his position by stating, “I have found (in 30+ years) of experience, that my way is the best way. I have my good and bad moments, but in the long run, the money goes to the 1NT open- ing. Even when I do miss a 5-3 major-suit fit, I find that notrump plays just as well (and even if it is the same, it is worth a fortune at matchpoints to get the 10 extra points for your contract).”

CHECK THIS OUT!

John Friedl will conduct a series of ten lessons featuring the 2-over-1 . Lessons will be offered on Thursday evenings from 5-6 PM beginning on January 17 and continuing through March 28. Although the main focus of the lessons will be 2-over-1, they will present a complete bidding system with related conventions including forcing 1NT, , new minor forcing, reverses by opener and by responder, and Jacoby 2 No . Also included will be Roman Key Card asking bids, four-way transfers over 1NT, and general concepts on and .

The cost is $50 for the 10 sessions, with the entire proceeds going to help support the Bridge Center. Advance registra- tion is required, and payment in full is due on or before the first lesson on January 17.

A printed lesson outline will be distributed to all participants. John highly recommends that participants purchase the book 2 over 1 Game Force by Audrey Grant and Eric Rodwell. The book is currently available for $13.57 plus shipping from Amazon.com.

A registration sheet will be posted next to the green at the Bridge Center, or you can email your registration to John at [email protected]. Payment can be made by check (made out to the Chattanooga Bridge Center) or cash.

THE LITTLE UNIT THAT COULD

Our local bridge clubs form ACBL’s Unit 206, and our unit is part of District 7, which includes Georgia, South Car- olina, North Carolina, and Eastern Tennessee. We are the smallest unit in District 7 with only 245 players — more than 100 players fewer than the next smallest unit. But, regardless of size, we do things in a big way here in Southeastern Tennessee.

We put on spectacular tournaments — our regional this past summer had over 1700 tables with more than 900 players in attendance. Our Memorial Day and fall sectionals are always crowd pleasers with some players saying they’ are willing to drive miles just to enjoy the wonderful hospitality we traditionally offer.

Our various clubs have at least 7 regularly scheduled games a week with either 2 or 3 additional games on Mon- days each month. Most months we have a special themed game — a potluck dinner, a pro-am game, an 8-is- enough team competition, or as many of you just recently enjoyed, our fabulous New Year’s Eve game where friends meet to play their favorite game in the company of fellow aficionados and partake of a wonderful gourmet breakfast. Our directors take charge of games, settle disputes, and make sure those scores and hand records are online for our reference.

We have a wonderful bridge library filled with books to answer every possible question and challenge even our best players. The library is loving- ly tended by a professional librarian who not only keeps our materials neat and orderly, but stays on top of recent bridge books to keep our offer- ings timely and worthwhile.

Our Education Committee provides many opportunities to improve your bridge skills. We offer classes before the Monday evening NLM game, as well as a series of beginner and novice classes on Saturdays. On Fridays from 1-3 pm, we alternate classes with Play & Discuss games host- ed by experienced players available to answer questions and guide newer players. In response to a number of requests, this month we will start a new series of lessons prior to the Thursday evening game featuring the 2/1 bidding system. (See the article above for further information.) Other units think we are crazy to keep our class fees so low, but we want to grow and improve bridge in our area.

Unit officers and board members are not only responsible for financial and administrative functions, but they are devoted to improving the level of bridge in our area and making the playing experience enjoyable and rewarding. Our club managers are diligent in satisfying all ACBL require- ments, ensuring that all commitments and obligations are fulfilled, and acting as liaisons between our local bridge groups, other clubs, and the ACBL.

We have a PR committee that looks for ways to highlight our activities to those outside the bridge community. We have experienced players reserving playing dates with novice players and helping them acclimate to our open games. Our monthly newsletter celebrates our local players, communicates upcoming events ,and features bridge columns by local experts. Special games and activities are showcased in scrapbooks avail- able for all to enjoy. The list goes on and on and on — and all of this is accomplished by the smallest unit in District 7!

Of course, all of these efforts require teamwork, cooperation, and volunteers dedicated and committed to bettering and developing bridge in our region. It’s not fair that a few share all this fun. Why not see where your skills can be put to use and volunteer your time and talents to make Unit 206 the absolute best in District 7. There is always room (and need) for an extra pair of hands, and your support would be welcomed.

In Memoriam…. Nat Hughes

This past month Unit 206 lost a long-standing and loyal friend when Nat Hughes passed away. Nat was an original, the likes of which we probably will never see again in our life- times. He was a true Southern gentleman, al- ways courteous and proper, but one could eas- ily see when his playful side took over. His warm chuckle and the twinkle in his eye were Nat Hughes is pictured here undeniable giveaways. with his wife, Bucky. For many years Nat labored tirelessly to im- prove bridge in the Chattanooga area. Working in cooperation with other dedicated players, he played a significant role in creating a perma- nent home for the Chattanooga Bridge Center. He gave generously of his time and talents, helping novice players improve and new players feel welcome. His optimism and positive atti- tude were contagious, and it was easy to see how these two qualities helped raise the spirits of the membership as a whole. His skills as an educator served him well at the bridge table. Both partners and opponents alike were the recipients of his affirming feedback. He took the adage “if you can’t say something positive, don’t say anything” to heart. And, because it was difficult for him not to say anything, Nat always found a way to come up with a kind word or an encouraging suggestion. Playing with him was as good as psychotherapy—and definitely cheaper!

Nat was an intelligent and astute bridge player. He delighted in his accomplishments, but was quick to recognize the error of his ways when his aggressive bidding did not produce the de- sired results. Never one to dwell long nor hard on his or his partner’s mistakes, he easily erased misbid or misplayed hands and comfortably moved on to the next deal. Although he was the consummate competitor, he was a genuinely unselfish sportsman. Nat could always enjoy the success of another—even if it came at the cost of his own.

Unit 206 will find it impossible to fill Nat’s shoes; he truly will be missed. We send our most heartfelt condolences to his family and close friends as they deal with this significant loss. In Memoriam… Donna Myers

We were saddened to learn of the passing of Donna Myers this past November after fighting a long and arduous battle with cancer. For more than 20 years, Donna confronted this disease with determination and strength, never letting her attitude or outlook be defeated. Regardless of how she felt, Donna was an upbeat, positive influ- ence at the Chattanooga Bridge Center. Donna and Al Myers Always a fierce competitor, when Donna was at the bridge table she was ready for combat. Her cheerful attitude and the beautiful smile that crinkled her eyes belied an indomitable and resolute spirit, and she showed no mercy for those of us who did not take the game seriously.

It was always fun to arrive at Donna’s table—she would have a welcoming smile and kind word for all her opponents. It was especially fun if it was basketball season, as Don- na was more than willing to give her opinion on the Lady Vols’ chances and playing rec- ord. She loved traveling to the games whether at home in Knoxville or away at another SEC school, and she especially enjoyed sharing these times with her husband Al.

Growing up on a farm in the Midwest must have taught Donna that idle hands had no place in her life. She and Al loved to golf, and when Donna had to give up the sport be- cause of serious back surgery, she quickly replaced her golf clubs with needles—quilting needles to be exact. She was a talented quilter, having developed many of her handwork skills under the tutelage of her mother who was a gifted seamstress. She often shared photos of her work, and each quilt was unique and beautiful.

Donna was always ready to welcome new players and to help those trying to improve their game. She shared her tal- ents and knowledge freely and enjoyed seeing newer play- ers succeed.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to Donna’s husband, her children and grandchildren and close friends. This special lady truly will be missed. Get Well Wishes SATURDAY JANUARY 19 Warm and heartfelt get-well wishes go out to Cotty Kale The Chattanooga Bridge as she continues to battle Center will host a special major health issues. We game the afternoon of Sat- urday, January 19th. A hope she turns the corner light lunch and drinks and soon sees significant will be provided by the improvement. Her optimism, club. Find a partner and and courage are all valuable tools in deal- mark your calendar now so you won’t miss the fun. ing with a very difficult situation. We miss More information will be you, Cotty, and hope to see you soon. posted on the bulletin board at the club.

CONDOLENCES

We offer our deepest thoughts of sympathy as well as our sincere prayers to Unit 206 players Teresa Moore and Claude Walker as they mourn the passing of their mothers. Although both ladies lived long and fulfilling lives, this loss is never easy for those left behind. We hope that Teresa and Claude can take some comfort in knowing that we are ready with strong shoulders and open arms to offer whatever they may need to help them in the days ahead.

YOU ASKED FOR IT With all the wonderful food overflowing at our recent holiday buffets, it is difficult for something to stand out. But, this dish was a real hit, and many of you asked for the recipe.

Sylvia Friedl's Hot Spinach & Artichoke Dip (with thanks to Knorr)

1 package (10 oz.) frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry 1 package (8 oz.) cream cheese, softened 3/4 cup mayonnaise 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese (about 6 oz.) 1 package Knorr's vegetable recipe mix 1 can (14 oz.) artichoke hearts, drained and chopped 1 can (8 oz.) water chestnuts, drained and chopped 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped

Preheat oven to 350. Combine all ingredients except 1/2 cup cheese. Put in a 2-quart casserole dish, and top with re- maining cheese. Bake for 35 minutes until dip is hot. Serve hot or chilled. You can find the Knorr's vegetable recipe mix in the packaged soup section of your local grocery store.

CHRISTMAS CHEER AND HOLIDAY SMILES

Last month Unit 206 welcomed in the holiday season with a wonderful afternoon party and game. The revelers were ready to party hearty and share seasonal cheer. Our talented Chef D’Vine outdid himself with a delicious ham and juicy prime rib, and players decked the buffet table with scrumptious goodies—you would have thought we really came to eat rather than play our favorite game! After our fabulous lunch and annual meeting, we got down to the serious business of playing bridge. We had 16 full , and topping the winners list were the partnerships of Stephanie and John Felker and Fran Kiefer and David Brown. Among those enjoying the festivities were Betty Owen and Donna Burnside; Judy Kemp and Kathy Wasson; JoAn Talley and Ann Keown; Grady and Suzanne Nichols; John and Carol Hudson; Linda McKinney and Suzette Hunt; Sue and Bert (the Elf) Shramko; and, Bill Adams and Emily Mitts. HIGH GAMES FOR NOVEMBER HIGH GAMES FOR DECEMBER

Chattanooga Chattanooga Open Ron Smith/John Moreton 73.21 Open Michael Sherman/Ron Smith 81.00

NLM Hank Muftuoglu/Ray Hall 70.13 NLM Hank Muftuoglu/Ray Hall 69.05

Cleveland Dick Mellor/Barbara Creagan 69.03 Cleveland Carol & John Hudson 64.04

Fairyland Susan & Earl Rothberger 67.26 Fairyland J. Herrmann/Marcia Lanphear 73.28

♦♣♥♠♦♣♥♠♦♣♥ WISHING YOU

Congratulations and a pat on the back to the following A HAPPY Unit 206 players on achieving significant milestones in their bridge careers. NEW YEAR

CHANGE OF RANK

November 2012 CBC GAME December 2012 SCHEDULE

Barbara Henderson Junior Master

Pat Niemczyk Junior Master Mary Rhoden Junior Master Iris Abelson Club Master Sunday 1:30 Open Game Belinda Lloyd Regional Master Monday 10:00 1st, 3rd & 5th/ Russell Lloyd Regional Master Open Game Hank Muftuoglu Regional Master 6:30 Mini Lesson David Brown Bronze Life Master 7:00 NLM Game Cotty Kale Silver Life Master Tuesday 12:00 Open Game Wednesday 12:00 Open Game Dick Mellor Gold Life Master Thursday 5:00 2/1 Lesson

6:30 Open Game Friday 1:00 Novice Lesson/ ♦♣♥♠♦♣♥♠♦♣♥ Play & Practice

CLEVELAND NEWS

Until further notice, the Cleveland Club will host only the Tuesday afternoon game at 1:00 pm. Please let Dick Mellor know if you are coming.

How sweet to take a walk down memory lane...