The District 16 Star Award (formerly known as the Texas Star Award) annually honors the Unit volunteer who works steadfastly at the Unit level to promote bridge and to further Unit activities. 

2021 Charles Ford

Charles Ford, a Ruby Life Master, has been dedicated to bridge for 30+ years. His love for bridge began while watching his parents play. In 1990 he was able to start on his own bridge career.

 Having completed the necessary classes to become an ACBL certified teacher, Charles enjoys teaching bridge and sharing his love for the game. He has held Junior Bridge Camps in the summer and, along with Sandy Hilliard, has taught bridge to 3rd through 6th graders in Canton. He also teaches bridge at the Senior Center in Mabank. Classes he has taught include: beginner classes, 2/1, Jacoby transfers, play of the hand and others. He is always ready to help players improve.

 In the past, Charles served 6 years on the Unit 225 board and was President his last year on the board. He worked as co-chair with Ginger Rhamey to bring a regional tournament to our area and ensuring its success.

 Charles participated as the Unit’s spokesperson to the Tyler City Council regarding the Unit’s rental fee at the Tyler Senior Citizens Center. Charles has run the Tuesday games in Athens for several years. He is always ready to do whatever he can for the game of bridge from tournament setup/breakdown to teaching classes and much, much more.

Past Winners

• 2020 Nelda Avent
• 2019 Carol Kinsey
• 2018 Sandy Hilliard
• 2017 Mike Graham
• 2016 Linda Harrison
• 2015 Jean Roach
• 2014 Noelene Hardy
• 2013 Janie Wolaver
• 2012 Shirley Shelton
• 2011 Ginger Rhamey
• 2009 Lela Mae Corley
• 2008 Gloria Rowland
• 2004 Dottie Pirkle
• 1999 Cleo Tucker
• 1996 Oleta Hall