Ann Kuperberg
The Bighorn fire has brought devastation to the Catalina Mountains and smoke-filled air as well as fear of evacuation for SaddleBrooke residents. Along with the coronavirus, we’ve had much to be concerned with.
Yet, we go to doctor appointments, hair salons, and clubhouse for dinner or visit the malls, wearing our face masks and keeping social distance.
There are still online bridge games to occupy our minds. Tucson clubs have virtual competitive games on BridgeBaseOnline/BBO with a fraction of the money going back to the club. We can even play bridge with partners who have moved away every day of the week. No one cares what we wear or eat and drink.
You don’t have to worry about leading out of turn or reneging; the computer won’t let you.
On June 20 and 21, many of our residents participated in special games to raise money for Alzheimer’s research. There were games for non-life masters and open games.
The June issue of “Bridge Bulletin” had a review of a book by Kim Frazer. She gave advice on “gaining the mental edge” when playing bridge. It’s easy to get distracted when you have a terrible hand. You can slouch in your chair, look around the room, and yawn. Luckily, with online bridge, no one sees you. However, you lose your defensive edge.
She mentions dealing with slow opponents and hydrating when playing. You can get good ideas just from the review without buying the book.
Eventually, the MountainView Club will open again, but we’re better off being cautious.
Check our website, www.Bridgewebs.com/mountainview, for opening days and times.