Welcome address of ACBL President

On behalf of the American Contract Bridge League and the bridge population of Montreal, I wish to extend our warmest welcome to our friendly city.

I still remember vividly the first World Championship that I attended some 20 years ago. No doubt for some of you this is an initial experience, and for many years you'll remember it with a smile on your face. For others, seasoned veterans, this is a return trip to test their skills against the best the world can offer.

We Montrealers feel honoured to be your hosts at these championships. At this point I would like you to recognize some of our volunteers who have been preparing for this moment for many years:

Dr. Tibor Bertalan, the Chairman of our Organizing Committee;
Rejean Blanchette, his assistant;
Jean-Guy Daoust, President of the Montreal Bridge League;
Barbara Corcoran, Monique Laurin and Agi Bertalan, who are in charge of registration and hospitality;
Jean Castonguay, Recruiter of Caddies;
Brian Fraser, Treasurer;
Roger Dunn, Webmaster;
My wife, Mari, who helped me through the darkest hours and looks after our entertainment.
I would like to ask all volunteers present to stand up and be recognized.
Thank you, thank you, merci beaucoup.
For two weeks our city will be your city. I hope you'll have a wonderful time.
Eight years ago, the then President of the ACBL, Virgil Anderson, who unfortunately is not here tonight, impressed me by concluding his speech in several languages. Utilizing my absolutely perfect pronunciation, let me greet you again.

Welcome Khash amadin Bienvenuto
Bem Vindo A Bienvenido Huanying dao
Isten hozott Kangei Witamy serdecznie
Bienvenue a Montreal

ACBL President
George Retek