When the game reached North America in 1929, it became know as “beano”. It was first played at a carnival near Atlanta, Georgia. New York toy salesman Edwin S. Lowe renamed it “bingo” after he overheard someone accidentally yell “bingo” instead of “beano”.
He hired a Columbia University math professor, Carl Leffler, to help him increase the number of combinations in bingo ccards. By 1930, Leffler had invented 6,000 different bingo cards. They were developed so there would be fewer non-repeating number groups and conflicts when more than one person go Bingo at the same time.
The Durant’s Neck Ruritan Club holds a community Free Senior Bingo twice a year, typically in October and February. It is a wonderful time for the players and the hosts and includes a free lunch. Oh and did we mention prizes? There are prizes to be won.
Why Bingo for Seniors?
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It is a social game that brings people together from all over the community to physically be together for companionship
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It can relieve or prevent symptoms of depressions and anxiety
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It can enhance coordination and boost cognitive health
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Encourage Socialization
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It can provide a psychological boost
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It can improve cognitive abilities even in older age
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It is fun!