Under Phase Two of the Red Traffic Light level the government has advised that "vulnerable older people should limit their social interaction". The cancellation of bookings at the club this week suggests that the warning is being heeded. Whenever numbers allow we are now are now using only every second bridge table in an effort to increase distancing. John Skipper has organised our connection to Real Bridge and we hope to have this operating as soon as a method of payment has been set up and our directors have undergone the necessary training. How long we are able to remain playing face-to-face bridge is an unknown, but in the meantime we need to do all we can to operate safely. Those of us who currently attend sessions do so in the knowledge that we must wear a mask. Though the increased level of security we achieve by doing this is a comfort, the actual wearing of the mask can be far from comfortable. 

Masks can cause some people to feel claustrophobic, glasses can become fogged up, we can feel hot and bothered- the list goes on. It is easy to inadvertently wear them upside-down or inside-out, and tempting for some to wear them on top of the head, under the nose, or even the chin. Some players are making an art-form out of prolonged cups of tea and strategically placed very long glasses of water. However, we have now had time to adjust, and with the ever-increasing case numbers it is time to get serious. Out of consideration for all our members, including those with mask exemptions, we need to co-operate with requirements and act responsibly. Directors should not be diverted from their duties to act as the mask police. Likewise, committee members should be free to play bridge and not be called upon to intervene in disputes. Please wear your mask when entering the building and leave it on unless you are eating or drinking. Please also have your refreshments at the allocated break-times and do not keep them at the table afterwards. 

Our current situation is stressful and challenging so let's please all show tolerance and work together calmly as we make our way through it.

Thank you,

Marilyn Copland,

President.

Senior/Senior Reserve Seminar, Sunday 27th February at 10am, $15 Tutor: Jane Skipper. Topic: Play your cards right! … a look at leads, signals and defence. Sign up in the foyer or email the office.