.... From the rookie Director perspective! 

I have to admit, when we were first planning a Bingo night I honestly had no idea how popular this would be. I knew people generally enjoyed Bingo, I knew we could offer some fun prizes, I also knew EVERYONE is capable of taking part and I was thinking it would be an early night after some calm game playing.  Well, I'm not afraid to admit my shortcomings, I was wrong, wrong and wrong!!!!

You all rocked it!  More than 120 people enjoyed the night of fun-filled  Bingo and I admit I am shocked!  I cannot even sit for 3 hours, let alone focus on one task for that long, so kudos to all who lasted the entire night in hopes of scoring the final Bingo bundle.  I am amazed at your perseverance and patience.  My body was ready for bed by 9pm, but you all kept playing past 10. 

I stepped outside a couple times for air and could hear the cheering and clapping spilling out the doors and into the parking lot! I loved how every one cheered for each other and had good, spirited fun.  It's hard to lose, especially a tie breaker, but I think everyone was genuinely happy for the winners.  I so wish we could give prizes to everyone for excellent sportsmanship! 

Sharon and Sylvia knocked it out of the park in the Bingo Basket category! Gorgeous baskets overflowing with coolness were as useful as they were gorgeous.  Thanks to Donna, as well, for selecting and presenting the gift cards prizes with class and beauty and Scott Bleggi for donating the "big prize".

Special thanks to the UCR board members and volunteers, as well.  The night would not have run so smoothly with Donna Z from St. Francis, our 9 UCR board members, and volunteers from St. Rose. To learn more about our fantastic UCR Board, click here.

Incidentally, I've never heard Happy Birthday sung louder than it was Saturday night.  What a super special night for the birthday girl celebrating with UCR friends and family around her!  Thanks for the cookies.

I'd love to hear any thoughts you had about the night and how to improve things. (yes I know faster sign in and more bingo cards are my fixes).  I'm such a rookie! :-) 

Feel free to email me at jennlynn@ucresources.org with any comments.

We will do this again, I promise! What a blast!