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