GOREN ON BRIDGE
Today’s deal presents a problem in how to play the trump suit. There is a legitimate chance to drop the singleton king by just laying down the ace. Our friends at The
Advanced School of Bridge Mathematics tell us that this is a 26 percent chance. However, it risks losing two trump tricks whenever East started with all three missing spades. There are two safety plays available that will guarantee the loss of no more than one trick in the suit. Low toward the queen will hold the loss to one trick regardless of which opponent has all three. Even better is to lead low from dummy and play the 10 if East plays low. Better because the suit will play for no losers should East have the singleton king. What to do?
The answer lies somewhere else. You cannot decide how to play the spade suit until you learn whether you have a club loser! The first thing to do is win the opening heart lead with dummy’s queen and lead a club to the queen.
Should that lose, you have no choice but to try to play the spades for no losers by laying down the ace. A winning club finesse allows you to take a safety play in trumps. We would overtake the king of hearts with dummy’s ace and lead a spade to the 10. Nicely done!
ARIES (March 21-April 19)
Concentrate on making someone’s heart happy; The sweetest dreams of a holiday gathering may include a plus one, and you can spend memorable moments with an affectionate companion.
TAURUS (April 20-May 20)
You are at your best when you have someone special by your side; embrace traditions with a loving partner. You can appreciate a warm holiday and still face the past and learn important lessons.
GEMINI (May 21-June 20)
Whether you entertain loved ones or just phone home for the holiday, remember this day has different meanings for different people.
CANCER (June 21-July 22)
Gatherings can remind you of your connection to others If you are with family or a tribe of friends, take time to appreciate this. If you are solo this holiday, make of list of the relative advantages.
LEO (July 23-Aug. 22)
For many this is a day to celebrate blessings. For some, it’s a sad reminder. You can choose to allow your perspective to evolve. Remember your boundaries if you feel put on the spot.
VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)
You may find it difficult to put business ideas aside and relax around a family dinner table. Listen to a friend’s sound advice and avoid overreacting to challenges.
LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22)
Upcoming events may be the carrot that persuades you to get chores completed quickly. This might be a family holiday, but romantic twosomes can make beautiful music together tonight too.
SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21)
You might be glad to see the end of pumpkin spice. Surround yourself with creature comforts and enjoy the blessings that life has on offer.
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21)
When someone is put up on a pedestal and everyone can see all sides, usually fakes get revealed pretty quickly. Celebrate blessings and contribute to those who have less.
CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19)
Do not be disturbed if you are confronted by someone with a bone to pick. This may be an excellent time to clear the air and set things right.
AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18)
Make it clear that any disapproval you express is aimed at actions, not personalities. You might prefer doing something more interesting but must bow to conventions.
PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20)
You might not be able to trust your intuitions today. Don’t act in ways that you imagine will please someone, which is emotionally draining and may not bring your results anyway.