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The Rest of the World
For most of us, bridge is the center of our “outside” activities – as well it should be. We thought however you might want to know what’s going on elsewhere… mostly because it will make us glad to get back to bridge and tackle our defense game!
Here are some August observances and I promise you these are real. You can Google them to find out exactly where and when if you want to attend.
Sandcastle Day, which celebrates the joy of the useless. Crackers in the Keyboard Day, designed to draw our attention to small details. Sisters Day, not yet a Hallmark occasion, but important nevertheless. Homemade Pie Day, a personal favorite. National Fresh Breath Day, a sharp reminder for bridge players. Chocolate Day, and I deeply resent that this is a DAY, not a MONTH. Pluto Demotion Day, not sure if we are FOR it or AGAINST it.
And finally, Cow-Chip Throwing Days. I swear I’m not making this up. Did you know that Drew Russell, 28, of Edmond OK broke the previous record for Cow Chip Chucking. In 2015 he threw said cow patty a stunning 188' 6", topping the previous record by 5'. This was part of an annual Cow Chip Festival, an event with a 48-year history, which include the chip chuck, a talent show (one tries not to picture this), a parade and a carnival.
And back to bridge we go!
DAVID BIRD starts us off with six challenges. Here’s what he helps us with: What to discard when under pressure. When to make the perfect switch. How to prevent the declarer from discarding a loser. How to make a suit preference signal. When to unblock even though it hurts. Finally, how to make the perfect lead.
BEN NORTON brings us six hands all centered on a central theme, defensive signaling. He shows us how, if we do it right, it’s like magic. We will read through the backs of our Pard’s cards. Good signaling is the heart of good defense. Play and learn.
PAUL BOWYER gives us eight examples showing how the defenders can preserve communication between each other and keep the entries open. This isn’t as easy as it sounds. Sometimes we have to violate Granny’s rules, and Paul shows us when, and how.
MATTHIAS HUBERSCHWILLER has two quizzes for us. One is on leading trumps or not, and the second is on what to lead with trump length. A pattern emerges! Very useful stuff.
And finally, I’ve got two warm-up hands, one on Suit Preference signals and the other on Covering an Honor with an Honor.
So there you have it, everything you need for a perfect August. Enjoy!
Don't forget: if you like Marti's style, have a go with her Bridge Boot Camps. Click here to ask Marti about the schedule...
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