Residents invited to play bingo this Sunday

Residents are invited to play bingo this Sunday from 1 to 4 p.m. at the senior center. Doors open at 12:15. Bingo is hosted by the Canyon Lake Lioness Club and is held monthly on the first and third Sundays.

Due to State Law, bingo is limited to those over 18 years of age and older. Admission is $10 and includes a six-sheet paper set which allows the player to play all 10 regular bingo games. Extra sets are available for $10 each.

In addition to the regular bingo games, two 50/50 games are played each session. The 50/50 games cost $1 each or six for $5. The 50/50 game payouts are split between winners and the Lioness Club. The amount depends on the number of 50/50 games sold per session.

A free 50/50 game is given to any player who brings a can of food. The club donates the food to H.O.P.E, a non-profit organization in Lake Elsinore. Free games are limited to one per player.

The cash payouts for regular bingo games vary each session. Cash payouts typically range from $20 to $60 per game, depending on the number of players. In the case of multiple winners per game, the cash payout is split equally between the winners.

Extras include pull tabs for .50 and power ball numbers for $1. Bingo daubers are available for $1 each.

A limited amount of snacks and non-alcoholic beverages are available to purchase. Players may bring in their beverages and snacks.

The sleeper rule is in effect and “sleepers” will not be paid. A “sleeper” is a person who does not immediately call bingo upon achieving one. If the caller calls the next number before the player yells bingo, the payer’s bingo will be declared invalid.

Newbies need not be intimidated. Before each game begins the bingo caller will explain the game before it’s played. Lioness Club volunteers also are on hand and ready to offer assistance to those who are new to the game or need help.

All proceeds from bingo go toward the various charities the Lioness Club supports, including the Ronald McDonald House, Smile Train, Loma Linda Eye Foundation, Foundation Fighting Blindness and Guide Dogs of the Desert.

It is necessary for people who live outside the gate to call to call Nancy Coughlin at 951-805-0543 or Joanna Spiller at 951-244-1533 for gate entrance.