President’s Letter – September 2026

President’s Corner: Full Steam Ahead Into Autumn!
 
Dear IBC Members,
 
As the leaves begin to change, your IBC Board of Directors remains laser-focused on keeping our club thriving! Our priorities haven’t changed: maintaining a balanced budget, offering a clean, friendly, and safe venue, fostering top-tier competition, educating players of all levels, and above all, celebrating the wonderful game of bridge. We have an action-packed stretch coming up—here is what’s on the horizon!
 
Mark Your Calendars: Key Upcoming Events
  • Getting Ready for Tournament Play (Sept 26): IBC and CIBA are co-hosting a morning seminar tailored specifically for newer players looking to navigate tournament play with confidence. Stick around right after for a Swiss Team Competition open to seminar attendees and any player with under 500 Masterpoints! 
  • Indy’s Gold & Red Intermediate/Novice Regional (Oct 2–4): Hosted at IBC, this tournament is open to players with under 750 points who have not yet achieved Life Master status. 
    Need a partner? CIBA created a brand-new Partnership Desk. For partnership questions, contact Peter Lach, CIBA Partnership Chair, at 909-488-1196 or Peterlach814@aol.com. 
Applause, Please! Join us in celebrating our latest monthly honorees:
  • Player of the Month: Tom Koralewski 
  • Novice of the Month: Jonah Clodfelter 
    Keep an eye on upcoming announcements for the dates of our special recognition parties!
October Highlights & Community Giving
  • Club Appreciation Weeks (Oct 5–18): Enjoy two full weeks of extra-rewarding games! 
  • Honoring Janie Hodge & The Mozell Sanders Foundation 🦃: In memory of our beloved Janie Hodge, we are collecting contributions all month long for the Mozell Sanders Foundation’s Thanksgiving Dinner, a cause deeply dear to Janie and her family that feeds over 10,000 people each holiday. Our campaign culminates with special games on October 23. 
  • Firefighter Appreciation Game 🧑🏽‍🚒 (Oct 28): Due to ACBL schedule conflicts on September 11, we are honoring our local firefighters with a dedicated game on October 28. 
  • Halloween Games 🎃 (Oct 30): Get your costumes ready! Costumes are highly anticipated and strongly encouraged for our traditional Halloween game day. 
Club Growth & Social Media Buzz 📱
 
Our monthly table counts and player totals continue to meet targeted budget income goals! A huge thank you to all our mentors in the Fall Mentor/Mentee program—your guidance is building confidence, boosting table counts, and growing our Open game. 
 
Additionally, look out for big social media updates! Thanks to Matt Cory and Joyce Pepple, we are re-imagining our Facebook page to create a fresh, interactive hub that keeps us connected and introduces new players in the area to IBC. 
 
For complete schedules, be sure to check our website calendar or read the weekly newsletter updates. As always, your Board and Staff are here for you—reach out anytime with feedback or questions. 
 
See you at the tables!
Larry N. Cohen
Board President

IBC Board Update – August 2026

Dear IBC Members, ♠️♥️♣️♦️
 
As many of you know, the Indianapolis Bridge Center held a Special Meeting of the General Membership on August 1st to vote on the Amended and Restated By-laws proposed by the Board of Directors. With 48 members voting in person and 119 voting in absentia (167 total votes), the motion passed 166–1! 🗳️  Additionally, the Indiana Secretary of State officially accepted our Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation this past week. 📜✨The Board of Directors sincerely thanks everyone who participated. Faith in our leadership, demonstrated by this overwhelming approval, is deeply appreciated, and we do not take this responsibility lightly. 🙏
 
Following the meeting, 46 members stayed to play in the Blackwood Individual. This is an exciting and fun contest popular among our members.  Half of the players walked away with Masterpoints, and we hope to see even more participants at the next one! 🏆
 
July Recognitions ⭐
  • Player of the Month: Darrow Neves 🌟
  • Novice of the Month: Mary Lou Hornak 👏
Upcoming Events & Announcements 📅
  • Mentoring Program Kickoff (Sept 8 – Nov 21): 
    • Open to players with at least 50 Masterpoints looking to learn from experienced Life Masters! 🧠💡 
    • The program begins with an opening party on September 8 and concludes on November 21. 🥳 
    • Check the signup sheet at the club—Sharon and Matt Cory will handle partner matching! 🤝
  • September Schedule Update: There will be no Saturday Evening Social in September. Instead, we encourage members to attend the CIBA-sponsored Terre Haute Sectional from September 18–20! 🚗💨 Details are available at the club and on our website.
  • CIBA Special Event (Sept 26): CIBA is hosting an educational session on “playing in your first tournament,” followed by an afternoon Swiss Team event for players with up to 500 Masterpoints. 🎓 Bridge newcomers are encouraged to attend!
  • A Heartfelt Thank You: Thank you to everyone who responded to our request for cash donations toward club celebrations in lieu of baked goods. Your generosity is greatly appreciated! 🍰💵
There is a lot happening over the next six weeks! 🗓️ If you do not currently receive our weekly newsletter, check our website and sign up for emails to stay in the loop. 
 
As always, your Board is here to serve you, and your feedback is always welcome! 💌
 
Warmly,
 
Larry N. Cohen
Board President
 

IBC Board Update – July 2026

July IBC Monthly Newsletter
Updates, Celebrations, and Important Announcements from the Board
 
Unlike last month’s single-subject newsletter, we have a wealth of club news, achievements, and upcoming events to share with the Indianapolis Bridge Center community.
 
Upcoming Special Meeting & Critical Vote
By now, you should have received notice regarding a Special Meeting of the Members of the Indianapolis Bridge Center, Inc.
  • The Purpose: To request member approval for the Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation.
  • The Goal: This action conforms our Articles to the requirements of Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Because IBC is organized exclusively for charitable and educational purposes, this is a vital first step in ensuring our long-term stability and allowing future distributions to qualify as tax-exempt (pending IRS approval).
  • The Team: A massive thank you to IBC Board Secretary Susan May for tackling this heavy legal lifting, with major contributions from dedicated general member Brenda Horn.
How to Vote
The Articles are posted on the hallway bulletin board for your review. You can vote in one of two ways:
  1. Proxy/Ballot Box Vote: Submit your proxy vote in the ballot box located on the Game Director’s desk.
  2. In Person: Join us at the Special Meeting on Saturday, August 1st at 12:30 P.M. 
Stick Around After the Meeting! 
Following the vote, we will host the always-popular Blackwood Individual game. Whether you are a seasoned pro or have never tried it before, this unique format is an amazing, fun, and challenging experience for players of all skill levels!
 
We Smashed Our Alzheimer’s Association Goal!
Our June-long fundraising efforts have officially concluded, and the results are staggering. We are thrilled to announce that we raised $75,000, placing the Indianapolis Bridge Center 3rd among all ACBL Bridge Clubs nationwide!
 
An incredible initiative like this requires a village. We owe a debt of gratitude to:
  • The bakers, crafters, and item donors.
  • The bidders, ticket sellers, and participants in our 500 pool and game ticket raffle.
  • Our Game Directors, who tirelessly promoted the events.
  • Everyone who hosted events or donated in memory of lost loved ones.
While so many of you worked selflessly behind the scenes, we must give a special shout-out to Mary King. Mary turned this massive project into a stunning point of pride for IBC, and her extraordinary volunteer coordination deserves the highest praise possible.
 
Membership Surpasses 450!
The Board is pleased to report that our membership has grown to more than 450 individuals! Our new beginner classes have played a major role in this growth. Thank you to everyone who referred a friend or neighbor.
 
Club Courtesy Reminders
  • Fragrance-Free Environment
    We have received a lot of favorable feedback regarding our request to limit strong fragrances. Reducing the use of perfume and cologne makes the club a much more comfortable environment for members with chemical sensitivities. The response has been incredibly positive, but with so many new faces, it bears repeating!
  • Handicapped Parking
    A few months ago, we appealed to the membership to respect our limited number of handicapped parking spaces. Having recently needed to temporarily use these spaces myself, I saw firsthand how wonderfully everyone has responded. Thank you for being so caring and leaving these spaces open for those with limited mobility.
Potluck Celebrations
We’ve been fortunate to enjoy several wonderful meals together recently. It adds so much to the festive atmosphere when members bring dishes to share. If you are unable to bake, cook, or buy a side dish but still want to participate, an occasional financial contribution is a great alternative to ensure you’re fully vested in the celebration!
 
Honors & Achievements
Congratulations to our standout players this month!
  • Novice of the Month: Tom Tyler
  • Player of the Month: Bob Lyon
Looking Ahead: Special Games
There are many special games scheduled over the next 30 days. You can find the complete schedule in our weekly newsletter, on the physical calendars on our bulletin boards, or anytime on our website. Click here to view the online calendar.
 
A Reminder from Your Board
The Board is here to serve you, our members. Please feel free to reach out to any Board Member with your questions, ideas, or comments. See you at the tables! Click here to see the list of IBC Board Members.
 
Larry N. Cohen
IBC Board President

IBC Board Update – June 2026

Dear IBC Members,

This is a truly special time of year at the Indianapolis Bridge Center.

For years, we knew this event as “The Longest Day.” Today, it is called “DO WHAT YOU LIKE TO END ALZ,” but our mission remains exactly the same. Just as the ACBL has embraced the Alzheimer’s Association as its primary charity, IBC has proudly taken up the fight against this insidious disease.

The reality of this cause hits close to home for many of us:
1 in 9 people over the age of 65 are living with Alzheimer’s.
Because age is the greatest risk factor, that number jumps to roughly 33% for those aged 85 and older.

IBC has a stellar track record of raising funds to fuel research and alleviate the burden on the millions of families navigating this battle. In fact, last year IBC ranked 4th among all ACBL clubs nationwide for funds raised. Keeping that incredible ranking—and more importantly, making a real impact—requires all of us.

Over the next few weeks, we ask you to open your hearts (and your checkbooks!) to support IBC’s fundraising efforts. We have a fantastic lineup of events:
Tasty Treats & Goods: Enjoy our bake sales and merchandise tables.
Pro-Am Opportunities: Bid on a session to play with one of our expert teachers.
Raffle Tickets: Enter for a chance to win free play tickets for our daily games.
I am purposely keeping this month’s letter short because I want this message to stand out. Our members have always seen IBC as more than just a place to play bridge—we are a community of caring individuals who unite for causes greater than ourselves. That mindset has sustained us for years, and it is what will carry us into the future.

Please join us over the next few weeks to make this campaign a success and secure IBC’s place as a powerful, compassionate voice in our community.

For additional IBC news and updates please see the website and/or the weekly newsletter.

Thank you for your generosity,

Larry N. Cohen

IBC Board President

larry@norle.net

IBC Board Update – May 2026

📢 IBC Member Update: May 2026

Mapping the Future of the Indianapolis Bridge Center

“Make a plan!”

“Before you start declarer play, make a plan.”

This is one of the first and most important lessons we are taught in bridge. I am convinced that this philosophy is also critical to the future success of the Indianapolis Bridge Center. Our budget, our physical facility, our strategy for growing membership, our leadership succession, and our educational programs cannot simply happen organically. They require a roadmap.

With this concept at the forefront, the IBC Board, staff, and several dedicated members held a retreat on April 29th to establish a strategic plan for the next five years. I believe we have begun a process that will allow our community to thrive for years to come.

A New Foundation: 501(c)(3) Status

The first step in this process involves a change in our tax-filing status. IBC is currently a 501(c)(4) organization, a designation that does not allow donations to be tax-deductible. We are currently preparing the necessary paperwork to obtain 501(c)(3) status.
As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, IBC would be recognized for its educational and charitable missions. This change offers two significant benefits:
Tax-Deductible Giving: Your future donations to the center will be tax-deductible.
Grant Eligibility: IBC will become eligible for grants from foundations that support educational initiatives and community service.
📈 Sustainability and Growth🌱

We recognize that while future costs can only be estimated, our current fees are already substantial. It is our hope that by opening these new pathways to income, IBC can avoid increasing annual membership or daily game fees above present levels.

Changing our tax status is only the beginning. Over the next five years, our aim is to listen more closely to your needs. Whether you are looking for more games at different levels, adjusted schedules, new forms of competition, or expanded classes, we want to hear from you.

Realizing this vision requires work. We need to survey our members, listen to feedback, and think beyond our current ways of doing things. I invite you to join us in being open to this new vision so that we can create a vibrant future together.

In the coming months, we will be asking for your input and support. Please consider volunteering in any area where you have professional expertise or a personal desire to see the IBC improve.

Following our next planning session in June, we hope to introduce several committees that can utilize your unique talents. In the meantime, please feel free to reach out to the IBC Board or staff to let us know of your interest in getting involved.

April Recognition
Player of the Month: Penelope Millar
Novice of the Month: Ron Phillips
Social Events & Celebrations
Saturday Checkered Flag Social
Date: May 16
Details:
Signup sheets posted in the hallway
Club Championship game
Schedule: Meal starts at 5:00 P.M.; Game begins at 6:00 P.M.
Merris Young Life Master Party
Date: May 26
Schedule: Games at 10:30 & 11; Celebration and lunch at noon.
Special Games & Results
May 18-24: Play for GOLD
May 26th: Club Championships
Thursdays 12-2pm (14th, 21st, 28th): Soiree Games
Details: 18 Boards for only $8
Looking Ahead 👀
🏎️May Fundraiser: A reminder that the Indy 500 themed fundraiser to benefit Alzheimer’s research is underway. Entries are only $10, additional details posted at the club.
Reaching New Heights🔝

As Sharon recently shared, the ACBL has ranked IBC as having the 8th highest table count in the nation. We are incredibly close to climbing even higher—only 82 tables away from the 7th spot. To put that in perspective, if we add just two additional tables per week, we could potentially break into the top five.

Share Your Thoughts
As we race toward the Top 5, we want to make sure IBC is the best it can be. If you have suggestions to improve our space or make our schedules more effective, please reach out to the Board or Management. Help us keep the momentum going! 🏁

Larry N. Cohen
IBC Board President
larry@norle.net

IBC Board Update – April 2026

IBC Member Update: April 2026
 
A Message from the Board: The Heart of Our Club
 
Sometimes you ask a question the wrong way and get an answer that is more enlightening than asking it correctly.
 
Later this month, the IBC Board of Directors, our Professional Management team, and several others will begin creating a new 5-year plan to sustain and grow our institution. This follows the success of our previous plan, which stabilized our club following the impact of COVID-19 and is set to expire at the end of this year.
 
With this planning in mind, I recently asked members: “What do you like about this place?” While I should have asked specifically about the facility, the responses I received were far more meaningful.
 
Members repeatedly described IBC as a second home, a gathering place, and a comfortable atmosphere to compete and form lasting friendships. To paraphrase Cicero: “It is not the place that makes the person, but the person who makes the place honorable.” Our foremost goal for the next five years is to ensure these activities continue and to create schedules that meet the needs of our diverse membership.
 
Upcoming Game Changes
 
Friday 0-500 Game: Beginning in May, the start time will move up one-half hour to 10:00 A.M. This change is in direct response to feedback from frequent participants and those looking to join the game.
 
April Recognition
  • Player of the Month: Nabih Shurush
  • Novice of the Month: Robert Varadi 
Social Events & Celebrations
  • Saturday Night Social: Going Away Party
    • Date: April 18
    • Details: We are saying farewell to Melissa and Stephanie as they move to Massachusetts.
    • Food: Linda Benedix and Joe Shierling are providing cake. Please bring a vegan hors d’oeuvre if possible.
    • Schedule: Meal starts at 5:00 P.M.; Game begins at 6:00 P.M.
    • Sign-up sheets posted in the hallway.
  • Novice of the Month Party
    • Date: Sunday, April 26
    • Details: Celebrating Heidi Studebaker.
    • Game: 0-1500 game starts at 6:00 P.M.
Special Games & Results
  • April 20: ACBL Charity Foundation Game
  • April 24, 26, & 29: Club Championships
  • NCAA Pool Results
    • Our basketball pools raised $880 for our June “Do What You Love to End ALZ” efforts! Thank you to everyone who participated.
    • Bracket Winners
      • 5 Games: Danny Hibner, Joyce Carusi, Richard Graham, Suzi Pratt.
      • 3 Games: Jim Schutter, Robin Smith, Kathy Garrity, Suzi Pratt.
      • 1 Game: Ginny Brauer, Jonah Clodfelter, Stony Sullivan, Brenda Smith, Carolyn Quick, Mary Pat Schmitt, Jo Ann Harlan, John Nichols. 
Looking Ahead
  • May Fundraiser: Get ready for our Indy 500 themed fundraiser to benefit Alzheimer’s research.
  • Parking Reminder: We have a limited number of “Handicap” spaces. If you have a placard but are able to navigate the extra distance, please consider leaving the closest spots for those with more limited mobility.
Your Voice Matters
 
We are always looking to enhance our surroundings and our community. If you have suggestions to make our space more attractive or our schedules more effective, please reach out to any Board member or Management.
 
Larry N. Cohen
IBC Board President

IBC Board Update – March 2026

IBC March 2026 Member Update:

Some months it is a struggle to compose this monthly newsletter but sometimes it writes itself. This one was an easy one because of the generosity of our Membership.

As I was paying for my game the other day, I saw a small note of gratitude from Gleaner’s Food Bank, pinned on the bulletin board behind the director’s chair, thanking the Indianapolis Bridge Club for donating over 280 pounds of food to their food pantry. At a time when food insecurity is increasing at an alarming rate, it brought a sense of pride that we, as a community, responded so positively and selflessly.

  • This is just another example of our Club rising to the opportunity to meet a need, whether it is in our own facility or in our larger environment.
  • We have annually given generously to Toys-for-Tots, with donations of both gifts and money.
  • Our efforts for Do What You Love to End ALZ (formerly known as The Longest Day) far exceed Clubs from larger populations. Those efforts involve so many of us in soliciting donations, baking, donating items, giving our time and bidding with open wallets to make IBC a leader in the nationwide endeavor.
    When we needed help with breaking down tables, cleaning, repairing furniture or decorating, membership has responded en force.
  • It is in that light that the Board would like to thank everyone who responded to the “Ice Machine Challenge”. So many members stepped up that we were able to reach our goal of funding the new ice machine without depleting our delicate budget. While the ice machine is not yet functioning, it is installed and is awaiting a single part for completion. Thanks to all for your patience and your contributions.
  • Similarly, everyone’s enthusiastic response to our now annual Bracket Challenge has been quite robust. At this point we are close to filling out 4 full brackets for the upcoming NCAA tournaments. Not only does this effort help to sustain our club financially but it builds on the camaraderie of a shared fun experience.
  • Upcoming events for the rest of March:
    Emerald Day honoring all Emerald Life Masters – Tuesday, March 17th at 11AM
  • CIBA GNT Incentive Game
    2-Session Swiss Teams
    Saturday, March 21 10AM at IBC
    $56 per team, covers both sessions and lunch!
  • Club Championships March 19th, 22nd, 24th and 30th
  • ACBL-Wide Charity game March 25th

For events in April please keep an eye on the weekly bulletin or check the website. If you are not getting the weekly updates in your e-mail let us know and we will add you to the mailing list.

Monthly Recognition:

Congratulations to

  • Brett Roby (Player of the Month)
  • Heidi Studebaker (Novice of the Month)
  • Jeff David (Sapphire Life Master)
  • Merris Young (New Life Master)
  • Patsy Cram (New Life Master)

Membership Update:

Membership renewals for 2026 are occurring and right now we’re at 389. Our goal to reach our budget is 400 so if you have not renewed your membership for 2026, please try to do so at your first opportunity.

On the Horizon:

As many of you know, near the end of the Pandemic, our Leadership (Board and Staff) formulated a 5 Year Plan designed to keep IBC open and financially solvent. Our continued existence is a testament to the success of that plan.
Those 5 years are ending at the end of 2026. With that in mind, the present Leadership is now tasked with creating a blueprint for the next 5 years.
As those plans are formulated, we will keep Membership informed on the progress, thinking and implementation of those efforts.

On that subject and all other Club business, the Board and Staff are committed to being open to your input.

Please feel free to reach out to any of us with questions, suggestions and comments.

Larry N. Cohen
larry@norle.net

IBC Board Update – February 2026

February 15, 2026

IBC Member Update: February 2026

Believe it or not, we are already past the midway point of the month, and the momentum at IBC is incredible. We are currently sitting at 90% of our membership renewal goal. If you haven’t made your annual contribution yet, now is the perfect time to help us reach 100%!

Despite a few days of closures, January was a standout month, with overall participation beating our 2025 numbers. A special shout-out goes to our Monday Online Game, which saw participation triple compared to last year.

Want to join the fun? We’d love to see you online this Monday! You can find all the details on our website, or feel free to chat with any of our staff or game directors for more info.

A “Souper” Success and a Cool Club Update
Our Souper Douper Super Bowl event was a massive hit! With 11 full tables of players and a delicious spread of homemade soups, the energy in the room was fantastic. A huge thank you to everyone who shared their culinary talents with us.

The “Big Game” Winners: Congratulations to our square winners, who have earned free games!
1st Quarter (3-0) Jan Kilies 2 Free Games
2nd Quarter (9-0) Melissa Conrad 2 Free Games
3rd Quarter (12-0) Cris Bahret 2 Free Games
Final Score (29-13) Melissa Conrad 4 Free Games
The Ice Machine Challenge: While the square fundraiser was a great start toward replacing our ice machine, rising costs mean we are still short of our goal. Even if you don’t personally use the ice, it’s these little amenities that make IBC “a cut above the rest.” In fact, at the recent CIBA Regional, the most common feedback I heard was: “We are so spoiled by the amenities at IBC!”

The Masterpoint Challenge: To bridge the gap, I’m issuing a friendly challenge to our Regional players:
Earned points? Consider donating $1 per Masterpoint won (or a flat $5 if you hit the board!).
Attended the Regional? A small contribution in honor of our club’s reputation would go a long way.
Dates of Note: February Mark Your Calendars!
We have a busy second half of the month! From championship points to milestone celebrations, here is what’s coming up at IBC:

Club Championship Games
Earn extra points at these upcoming championship sessions:
Wednesday, Feb 18: 11:00 AM Open Game & Evening Games (0-100 and 0- 500)​
Saturday, Feb 21: Mixed Pairs Social (Evening)
Tuesday, Feb 24: All Games
Friday, Feb 27: All Games
Special Events
Friday, Feb 20: ACBL Education Foundation Fundraising Game. Come out and play to support the future of bridge!
Saturday, Feb 28: Brenda Smith’s Life Master Party! * Time: Game starts at 1:00 PM.
Bonus: All points for this game will be converted to 1/3 RED ! Join us to celebrate Brenda’s wonderful achievement.
For March dates, watch for the weekly newsletter and check the calendar that will soon be posted on our website and bulletin boards.

Monthly Recognition – Congratulations!
Mike Helmer (Player of the Month)
Kate Barth (Novice of the Month)
In closing, I want to express my sincere gratitude to all our members for the culture of respect you bring to IBC. This spirit shows up in so many ways—from the warm greetings at the tables and the willingness to lend a helping hand to your thoughtfulness in keeping our  environment fragrance-free. Most importantly, it is seen in the overwhelming outpour of concern and support whenever illness or loss affects one of our own. All these small acts combine to make our community truly unique.

Please remember that your Board is here to serve you. We welcome your concerns, suggestions, and questions at any time—don’t hesitate to reach out.

Larry N. Cohen
Indianapolis Bridge Center Board President
larry@norle.net

IBC Board Update – January 2026

IBC Member Update: January 2026

We are so pleased with the response to the request for everyone to renew their membership. You may have noticed that our normal game rate is $15 per person. Your membership entitles you to a $3 discount per game, membership does have its privileges.

Help Us Reach 400! Our financial stability depends on our membership goal.

  • Current Game Rate: $15 (Members pay only $12!)
  • Action Needed: If you have not renewed, please do so now—even if you’re “wintering” elsewhere. We are currently short of our goal of 400 paid members.

Ice Machine Fundraiser: Super Bowl Squares 🏈

We need a new ice machine 🧊! And Sharon wants a good one! This expense is not within our budget. To help cover the cost, we are hosting a Souper Duper Super Squares game for the BIG GAME on Feb 8.

  • Cost: $5/square. (Players can purchase as many squares as they want).
  • Prizes: Win 2–10 free games!
  • Rules and squares posted in the hallway. If the current board is filled, we will add another.
  • You may purchase your squares at the Director’s table.
  • Bonus: We are also collecting canned soup and goods from now through the BIG GAME for a Gleaners Food Bank.

Coming Up at the Club
New Online Game for IBC players: Mondays on BBO (Bridge Base Online) available through the link on the BBO website (started Jan 12). If you need help connecting to this opportunity, please reach out to staff for assistance. Or click here for instructions on IBC’s website.
Sunday Night Special: Bring a Sunday newcomer on Feb 1 or 8 (they play free). On Feb 22, everyone plays free + pizza!
Bringing Back a Tradition: the return of the “Loyalty Party,” Saturday, February 7th, Free play for those who played 100+ games in 2025. (This will also be your last opportunity to purchase squares for our fundraiser).

📣Calling all prospective players:

Bridge for Beginner Classes: Starting Jan 18 @ 2:00 PM. Tell your friends!
For a schedule of all other classes, please see the bulletin board.

Monthly Recognition

Congratulations!

🏆 Tom Frank (Player of the Month)

🏆 Joyce Carusi (Novice of the Month)

🎓 Brenda Smith (New Life Master)

Larry N. Cohen
larry@norle.net

IBC Board Update – December 2026

December 15, 2025

Indianapolis Bridge Center (IBC) Newsletter: Year-End Wrap-Up & 2026 Outlook

Celebrating a Successful 2025

As the year draws to a close, we can look back on 2025 as a successful period for the IBC! We are proud to report that we were able to increase the pay for our game directors for the first time in several years, and also provided well-deserved raises to our management staff.

Looking Ahead: 2026 Budget & Membership Drive

The Board of Directors recently met and passed the proposed budget for 2026, which is now posted in the hallway for your review.

Our financial stability relies on achieving a goal of 300 paid annual members next year. While we’ve consistently met our goals for monthly paid players, we are currently slightly behind our target for annual renewals.

We strongly encourage all active participants to renew your 2026 annual membership assoon as possible!

  • Easy Payment: This year, you can pay using a credit/debit card. We also stillaccept checks or cash.
  • Follow-Up: We will soon be sending an email reminder to those who have not yetrenewed. Thank you for helping us reach our 2026 goals!

IBC’s Exciting Holiday Lineup!

The next few weeks are packed with activities to close out 2025!

Date/Time Event Details

Dec 15th – 21st (All Week)

Stardust Week! 25% of all points will be converted to GOLD!

Blackwood Individual Game—No partner needed!

Sat, Dec 20th Annual Holiday

Party

5:30 PM – Social Hour

6:00 PM – Game Starts

Dec 24th Christmas Eve IBC is closed for evening games. December 15, 2025

Date/Time Event Details

Dec 25th Christmas Day IBC is closed all day.

Sat, Dec 27th & Sun,

Dec 28th Pop-Up Games 50% Red Points will be awarded.

Mon, Dec 29th Charity Game Proceeds benefit Blood Cancer Research.

Wed, Dec 31st Game NYE Party

5:30 PM – Hors d’oeuvres and Game

Mark your calendars: The Indiana Bridge Foundation Celebration is also on Wednesday,

December 31st!

Kicking Off 2026: January Events

Get ready for some special games and social events in the New Year!

• Saturday, January 10th: Join us for a “Perfect 10” game.

• Saturday, January 17th: “Souper Social”

o Canned food collection to benefit Gleaners.

o Unveiling of our “Souper Duper Super Squares Board”—win free games based on the score of the NFL Championship!

• Wednesday, January 21st: A special game to honor Glen Fidlier and fundraise for the Alzheimer’s Association.

Monthly Recognition:

Our Player of the Month (POM) is John Fosnaught, and our Novice of the Month (NOM) is Scott Birnbaum.

Congratulations to them both!

For January events, please see the calendar posted online and on the bulletin board, as well asthe weekly newsletter!

In closing, the Board wished you all a wonderful HOLIDAY SEASON!

We look forward to seeing you at the tables!

Larry N. Cohen

larry@norle.net