BRAZILIAN BRIDGE FEDERATION DINNER

Tuesday evening a dinner was hosted by Mr. and Mrs. Ernesto D’Orsi for those very much involved in the WBF.   Cocktails were served at the pool, followed by a sumptuous dinner in a magnificent glass-enclosed setting.   Seating assignments were in order and Bobby, being a past President of the ACBL as well as the WBF, and I were seated at a very prestigious table — with The Godfather of the WBF, James Ortiz Patino, the hostess, Cecilia D’Orsi, Jose Damiani (WBF President) who needs no introduction, Mr. and Mrs. Gianarrigo Rona, the President Elect, and three other obviously important local people I had never seen before.    Jimmy was revered by both Ernesto and Jose to the glowing smiles and applause of an appreciative audience.   Jimmy, who celebrated his 81st birthday and is now walking with a cane, delivered a teary goodbye speech suggesting it may be his last as visibly he is going downhill (though seated at the table, you would never surmise it).

Norman and I got to know Jimmy through our close friendship with Edgar Kaplan who worked hand in hand for the good of world bridge for a few decades.   When I went over to kiss him goodbye, he tried to rise (which obviously was an effort).   But despite my forceful discouragement, he overruled me, stood at humped over attention and kissed me on both cheeks.   His tireless determination was so evident last night even in such a weakened state.  Obviously, his mind was sharp as ever and his speech impeccable.  The Tuesday evening before there was a viewing of his famous ‘vintage card collection” beginning in the 15th century.  It was absolutely boggling.   Cocktails and hors d’oeuvres were served and his Curator explained much of the background and interest in this one-of-a-kind exhibition.   Everyone was quite taken to have been included in this showing.

Despite Jimmy being the star of the show, I could not help notice the energy and pride of Ernesto and Jose who absolutely ooze with the love and respect for both bridge and the WBF and what they have done both separately and together to honor our wonderful pastime.  Their dedication is obvious with every breath they take and it is because of people like this great duo and other devoted people close to them, that bridge has escalated to this position universally.  They have set an incomparable example for bridge players the world over.