Approximately 200 people of all ages had their bingo dabbers ready to go last Thursday at the Morris Multiplex.
The evening kicked off a year-long license for monthly bingo evenings to support fundraising efforts for the Morris & District Centennial Museum and Morris Area Recreation Commission.
Formal bingo hasn’t been held in the community in over a decade, and many players voiced their enthusiasm for its return.
“It’s what Morris needs right now—a chance for people to get together,” shared Kara Ferguson, a resident of Letellier enjoying a night out without her children. “It’s a ‘choose our budget’ event.”
Older players shared how they missed “doing the circuit.” In years past, regular bingo evenings were held in Dominion City, Letellier, and Morris, and friend groups would alternate communities each week.
“Having bingo in Morris is nice because we’re getting to the age where we can’t always handle a night out to Club Regent,” one woman laughed.
With funds raised from this event, the museum hopes to upgrade infrastructure and hire permanent part-time staff to curate its artifacts and organize community programming. The Rec. Commission, meanwhile, will put their funds into recreational programming.
“We’re excited to have everyone here tonight,” said Arien Peterson at opening call. The community welcomed back its ancient, bulky bingo machine, outfitted with a new blower. Laughter filled the hall as staff navigated the nuances of different bingo games and adjusted the pace of number calling. “We’re trying our best, but we aren’t professionals.”
As the evening progressed, experienced players stepped up to help the less seasoned volunteers—which included community members, Morris Area Foundation members, and Maverick hockey players—in understanding the game.
Early bird games paid out $52 each while the bonanza jackpot went for $342 in over 53 balls. The Pick 7 winner took $182 home.
Bingo games will take place the last Thursday of each month. The next one is March 27.
