KOTA Territory NewsBringing back BINGO

Bringing back BINGO

Makenzi Henderson

As the economy fails, more people have to take fun out of their budget.  But, there's a community where people can still have some fun on a 'Bingo' budget.

"If you get a Bingo, jump up and say bluh! Or Boo! Or Bingo!" said the Bingo announcer.

They all come to play and win.

While Randee Barker doesn't get Bingo often, "I'm not that lucky."  She is lucky.  Lucky to have her mother, son and grandchildren here.

"We come as much as we can," said Travis Barker, Randee's son.

Four generations at Whitewood's Bingo night.

"My husband likes to play Bingo.  My grandson likes to play Bingo.  It's something we can do as a family," Randee said.

Families, like the Barkers, help bring a Bingo boom back to KOTA Territory.

"I was excited because I used to do it when I was a kid.  So, they haven't done it for quite a few years," Travis said.

Last spring, Whitewood community members started Bingo night again to promote frugal family fun.

"$7.50 gives you a good night of fun," said Brenda Lindstrum, the city finance officer.

"It's just nice time to have family time during the week instead of just on the weekends.  Because most of the time, I'm at school and it's just 'ugh!'" Raylene Summers, a Bingo player said.

"You don't have to go out of town and go to a movie or something like that.  It's good, clean, cheap entertainment," Travis said.

This fall, people fill the hall.

They hope to get a Bingo and a prize.

"It was the jackpot and it was $100," Summers said.

But, they are content with a laugh and a cheer.

"It's not so much the Bingo.  It's getting together with friends and having a good time,"

If you want to join in the fun, the Whitewood Senior Center hosts Bingo every Tuesday at 7:00 p.m.

Of course, there are Bingo games in every KOTA Territory community so it is easy to get into a couple of games a week.