Hi Deana,

Wow. You're on top of people passing through those milestones. I wasn't sure myself; it seems the ACBL tracking between 2023 and this year is a bit fuzzy. I thought I was at 496. Thanks for the confirmation.

Story? Just lots of club play, twice a week. Like everybody else, I'd have to appreciate my regular partners. They put up with my occasionally sloppy declarer play. My aggression on penalty doubles makes them nervous. The sectional day that put me past 500 was an exceptionally poor day for me as a player. Teammates and partner saved the day.

In all seriousness, I do think we need wider discussions on promoting the game, not just on the boards and committees. It almost seems too late. And the unit 103/178 problem too, of needing to work better together.

While I appreciate the predicament for the ACBL on the hotel thing, I've heard local rumblings from people likely (or less) to go to Louisville. The discussion doesn't really impact me as a working person on a limited budget. The only NABC I'll see is the one we're hosting in a few years. It's a delicate balance these days, I know. The future is unclear. People are skittish about cheaters. People like to play at home in their pajamas. Good friends and competitors are dying. The $10 surcharge has alienated about three people I know. This month's bulletin tries to whitewash it. I was a chess organizer in the late 70s/early 80s, and on the unit board in Washington state tasked with a modest sectional. So I understand the dilemma.

Our sectional in Bremerton WA got priced out by the local hotel in 2017. Our new location in 2018 was subpar and many promised never to return. Then they dropped it in my lap and we had to think outside the box--we went to the local mall and focused on the best hospitality for players we could muster. If the ACBL relies on tournaments, it needs to look carefully at other possibilities. Hotels are convenient, and they have great amenities. Especially when I'm travelling for work. But they are also pricey for people who are there only for a bed in between bridge sessions and meals.

Peace

Todd