The Rotary Club of St. Croix West’s community center in Frederiksted was transformed Monday into a senior citizens bingo parlor, where past Rotary District Governor Rupert Ross was the official caller.
The club hosted bingo games in recognition of Senior Citizens Month at the club’s annual Senior Citizens Fun Day honoring the seniors for the contributions they have made to the community.
Club President Deborah Howell said they have been holding the annual Fun Day for about 10 years as a community service project.
“The seniors need something to do, and we provide the outlet for them to come out and enjoy themselves,” Howell said.
Otto “Chico” Tranberg, 92, smiled from ear to ear while he closely watched his bingo card.
“This is a nice way to spend the afternoon,” Tranberg said. “It’s good to come out and have fun like this.”
The 75 seniors sat quietly watching their cards trying hard not to miss a number called. There was excitement in the room; and all eyes turned to players who called bingo, and laughter broke out if it was a false bingo. Jean Prince, a seasoned bingo player, jumped up in excitement and waved her card in the air when she got a bingo.
Vilma C. Johnson and her sister, Linda I. Thomas, who both love to play bingo, were laughing and having a good time. Johnson, who was a winner, said she was going to put her winnings toward a new screen door.
Howell said 100 percent of the money taken in is paid out to the winners. For a small fee the players got a 10 pack of cards, Rotary gave every one a free card, and extra cards could be purchased.
The Department of Human Services assisted in the transportation of the seniors who were not able to drive, picking them up at their homes. The department also provided a lunch of chicken, rice and beans, fruit and a beverage.
Mary Weekes Pamphile, Department of Human Services director for the retired and senior volunteer program, said the senior citizens look forward to the month full of activities. She said Tuesday they are going to Divi Carina Bay Casino, and Wednesday they will have a gala ball at Divi Carina Bay Resort.
“The senior citizens really appreciate what the Rotary Club does for them,” Pamphile said.
