[Sunday499] Updates to ACBL's alert proceedure

Dear Friendly Bridge players, ACBL has updated the alert procedure. Some changes our players need to note: When using a transfer, instead of announcing "transfer" state the suit you are transferring to. For example, in the auction 1NT–2♥, where partner’s 2♥ showed spades, instead of Announcing “transfer,” you will now Announce “spades.” Instead of saying “could be short” for a non-forcing minor-suit opening that might contain fewer than three cards, you must say the minimum number of cards in the suit, as in “Could be one.” Support doubles and redoubles no longer require an Alert. In an uncontested auction, no natural jumpshift (whether weak, intermediate or strong) requires an Alert. BBO's convention cards have not been updated and still show these bids in red. It will take them some months to update. Be patient with our folks who continue to alert the old way. there will be a learning curve and adjustment period. When you receive your January Bridge Bulletin be sure to read page 35 where this is discussed. In the meantime, more information on all the changes can be found here: https://bridgefeed.acbl.org/red-alert/ --