PHOTO BY BECKY SMITH

Want a mind-blowing way to keep your cool these hot days?

A new round of bridge classes begin today—and there are now bridge games five days a week.

Most of the games attract between 40 and 60 people.

It’s testimony to the fact that people here want to keep their minds sharp, in addition to remaining physically active, said Bridge Instructor Chuck Abramo.

 There are 25 million bridge players in the country, including Bill Gates and Warren Buffett, who once called bridge “the best intellectual exercise out there.” Some studies tout bridge as being among the activities that can lower the risk of Alzheimer’s Disease.

Local bridge players play for the camaraderie, as well as the intellectual stimulation, said bridge teacher Jo Murray.

Those who take part in Wednesday’s games, for instance, often go out afterwards for a light dinner. Regular potlucks after the games provide an additional way to meet people.

Beginning classes, as well as separate intermediate classes, meet from 3 to 5 p.m. Tuesdays at the Wood River Community YMCA. Murray also teaches online classes, with students from as far away as New York and Anchorage.

Duplicate games, all sanctioned by the American Contract Bridge League, begin at 3 p.m. Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays at the YMCA or Our Lady of the Snows Catholic Church community room.

Bridge is the largest single activity the Y hosts on a regular basis.

The Wednesday and Friday games are for less-experienced players.

“Our philosophy is that you don’t have to play bridge well, but you do have to be a nice person,” Abramo said.

A new Sunday game this summer focuses more on learning, and players can ask for “help” as they sharpen their skills.

For a schedule and more information, go to www.sunvalleybridge.com.