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