The Current ACBL Monthly Bulletin

In simple language, they are getting better and better by the issue — a far cry from the ones when I first entered the scene which proves indelibly how time marches on.  That observation is coming from one who is hardly a compulsive, avid reader and only adhered to mandatory reading in both high school and college.  I must confess (and I always joke about it) the last book I read in its entirety many moons ago was Forever Amber. 

When the monthly ACBL Bulletin appeared in my mailbox, I scooped it up with my other mail and began to glimpse through it — checking out Brent Manley’s Viewpoint, Letters to the Editor (with responses), Upcoming NABCS (not that we attend them anymore), Life Master Milestones, my favorites columnists’ monthly contributions which are growing in number — and last, but not least, the Obits.  I single out that page because recently more and more of my peers are getting their names in lights (unfortunately in a posthumous fashion).

What caught my eye were the opening few pages where the featured articles were plastered in bold print, with page numbers and all photos accompanying them were in technicolor   It was a traditional eye catcher.  On the opposite page besides the Table of Contents appeared fifteen small black and white photos of the glib-tongued "contributors" — captioning the original column titles as well as the pages on which they appear.   The distinct categories were listed (including page identification) which pointed you to Columns, Departments, Interactive Features, Masterpoints, Calendars and "Passings."  “Passings”?  How delicate!

The subject articles, replete in most cases with colored photographs, are very provocative.  If you can’t find an affordable cruise to enjoy, blame no one but yourself!  There are detailed enticing full color advertisements which can’t avoid catching one’s eye.  These lovely ads of bridge water journeys include just about every cruise line available with dates, sites, host experts and (sometimes) prices but an 800 number is provided if you are serious about wanting more specific information.  In fact, Bobby was approached about the possibility of hosting one as he has done on numerous occasions in the past.  However, it wasn’t workable, but I am still entertaining the thought as there are only so many duplicate clubs and casinos in Vegas and a change of venue might be good at our tender ages.  And, would you believe, though I have been all over the world for bridge championships — never been on a cruise!

And now –  where do we direct the credit?  Obviously .. to my old friends (Editor in Chief Brent Manley and Managing Editor Paul Linxweiler) whom it seems I have known forever (or longer) who are probably first and foremost responsible for this fantastic upgrading of our monthly delivery.  I am certain the Associate Editor (Sue Monday) and the Graphic Design/Layout Coordinator (Cindy Hill) whose names I recognize but do not know personally played a major role in making it all happen.    And, to the many others who have silent roles in its production and distribution — we thank you.