This Friday, the Bridge Club of Atlanta in Sandy Springs and bridge clubs across the country are hosting The Longest Day, in an effort to help raise money for the Alzheimer’s Association.
“Alzheimer’s has affected a lot of people close to the players,” said club Owner Sam Marks. “It is a very important charity.”
Marks, who opened the club in July, said he is also personally affected because his mother suffers from Alzheimer’s, which causes dementia, or a loss of brain function.
“It is a horrible disease,” he said. “I want to raise funds and create awareness of both bridge and Alzheimer’s.”
He said the event will be a good “joining of efforts” because bridge is one form of mental exercise to help delay the onset of Alzheimer’s.
“It helps you stay healthy longer,” Marks said.
The Longest Day will consist of four games — at 9:30 a.m., noon, 4 and 6 p.m.
“$1 from each entry fee goes to Alzheimer’s and players can get people to sponsor them or contribute more money,” Marks said.
He said he hopes the Longest Day generates about $300, and is estimating about 120 players throughout the day. No specific skill level is required.
“It’s really neat people are going to be playing bridge all across the country on the same day,” Marks said.
Club member Helen Browdy plays bridge four or five times a week, and said she had a taste of Alzheimer’s when her mother developed dementia before death. Browdy also said she believes the mental exercise is healthy for the mind, loves the challenge of bridge and is looking forward to playing for a full day.
“I’m using my brain every day. It’s a wonderful game and frustrating,” she said. “I think the Longest Day is a wonderful thing. How often do you get to play all day long?”

If you go:

o What: The Longest Day
o When: Friday starting at 9:30 a.m.
o Where: Bridge Club of Atlanta, 4920 Roswell Road, Unit/Suite 33, Sandy Springs
o Cost: $10 for games at 9:30 a.m., 4 and 6 p.m., and $7 for noon game
o Information: https://thelongestday.alz.org/home/about or http://www.bridgeclubatlanta.com