Glenbrooke News

One of the more popular groups at Glenbrooke was started in March 2008 by residents Don and Ulla Iavello and is called Mexican Train ( also known as Trains).       Played every Wednesday afternoon  in the Arbour Lodge,  you have to get there early as play starts promptly at 1:00PM.

This information was originally posted in 2009 but I was unable to find the reason it was called Mexican Train.   A  couple years later and several attempts and internet searches later, we still do not have an answer.  However, I have since learned that it is offensive to some Hispanics - hence newer sets are simply labeled "Trains."

Whatever you call the game, it can be an enjoyable Wednesday afternoon.  There is always someone to teach the game so just come early to be matched with someone.

Trains is a played with dominoes.  Each player starts with 11 tiles and proceeds to form “chains" or “trains” unitil all the tiles have been played.   The game begins by placing the tile in the central station and building the line out.   Like most games,  there is some luck, some skill and some strategy involved in playing all the tiles.

When first started,  residents played around one or two tables in the game room at the Arbour Lodge.   Now, we have almost outgrown the activities room.   The number of players increases or decreases depending on the seasons.   Given this is the vacation season,   it seems logical that the group will be taking over the ballroom as it continues to grow.

There are a number of reasons for the popularity of Trains.   It is very easy to learn, no partner is  needed and  people find the social aspect just as important as playing the game.

Don and Ulla always welcome new people, so if you haven’t tried Trains yet, get on board and join the fun!