Schools
Family Bingo Night at West Orange High School
West Orange Council of PTA's sponsors evening of fun in support of scholarship
Bingo was the name of the game this past Friday night as many West Orange families filled up the high school's cafeteria for a night of friends, family, food and to try their luck with the popular amusement.
Sponsored by the West Orange Education Foundation and the West Orange Council of PTA's, more than 200 people packed into the school trying to win some prizes while supporting the council's scholarship raising efforts.
"It's all for the kids," said Carol Fastiggi, council's co-president. "Tonight is about getting everyone together and getting all the kids to intermingle."
The West Orange Council of PTA's is an umbrella organization that helps oversee each school's individual parent-teacher association.
"Our purpose is to work with the local PTA and help build unity among the schools and help share and disseminate information," said Lori Hascsak, council co-president.
She added that the council helps fundraise for high school scholarships.
Proceeds from the event went to the council's scholarship fund. Scholarships are awarded at the end of the school year to graduating West Orange seniors. Money raised will also provide scholarships for the summer enrichment programs.
As families arrived at the school they were able to purchase playing cards for $5 a pack. Two cards were played per game and each game kept on going after an initial win to allow for multiple winners.
When players were one spot away from a Bingo they were encouraged to stand up as they awaited their lucky winning number. Once that number was called, participants screamed out "Bingo" and were able to claim a child-friendly gift from the prize table.
The final game consisted of the special purchase orange card, which had participants in the running for the grand prize of a brand new Wii game system.
Members of the council helped run the event along with the assistance of ten high school students who received community service for their help.
Families were able to pre-order pizza. Many also brought food from home. The council provided cookies.
Originally slated to be held at the cafeteria, the event was moved last minute to the high school due to an overwhelming response. "We filled up quickly," said council member Cynthia Cummings. "It's great to see so many people here."
