July Senior Bingo

Saturday, July 18th marked another successful Senior Bingo for Community Unlimited. The events (which have been occurring regularly for almost a year now) provide an enjoyable opportunity for the community's seniors to get together and socialize. However, due to the dedication and creativity of CU's Youth Board members, they've grown to be much more than that, with concepts such as "Bingo Bucks" (imitation money printed by the Youth Board and won through the game, then traded for prizes), themes (examples include Hawaiian luau, May Day/Cinco de Mayo, and Easter), and recognition of birthdays and anniversaries for any of the seniors during that month.

This weekend's event was no exception; the room at the hosting Congregational Church was decorated in accordance with the month's theme of Independence Day (there was also a cake assembled to resemble the flag). Aside from the elaborate additions, the activity on its own is a worthwhile event, with the vast personalities emerging and flourishing in the community (as well as playfully competitive) atmosphere. It was led by the regular caller, Youth Board secretary Terrance Binion, with several other Youth Board members helping out by pouring coffee, writing down the numbers, and handing out the Bingo Bucks to the winners.

Terry Binion said, "I love the look on people's faces when they get a bingo. Everyone has their own 'winning face.'" He also added that people have "their own disappointed face...when I tell them to clear their cards." With games running the gamut from straight bingo to “X Marks the Spot,” “T for Terrific,” “I for Independence,” and Cover-all, Terry gets to see plenty examples of both throughout the afternoon. And of course the happy faces when lunch break is announced, and the line forms for the ice cream floats and other delicious snacks!

Next month's bingo will take place Saturday, August 22 at the Congregational Church, from 1 to 4 PM. There is a combined theme of Birthday Party (celebrating the one-year anniversary of the bingo) and Getaway Vacation. Anyone bringing in a relic of one of their previous vacations (pictures, souvenirs, etc.) will automatically receive an extra Bingo Buck. Players may also earn extra Bingo Bucks by bringing in 2 non-perishable food items for the Congregational Church’s food drive (one Bingo Buck for each two items) that day.