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Blacklight Bingo fundraiser will benefit Arc of Owensboro, Special Olympics

Messenger-Inquirer - 4/6/2019

April 06-- Apr. 6--Arc of Owensboro's first try at Blacklight Bingo last year proved such a success the nonprofit has added 100 extra seats for the upcoming event.

"We had people begging for tickets last year," said Sally Phillips, Arc executive director. "And we had people who wanted tickets at the door, but we couldn't accommodate them."

Instead of last year's 450 guests, this year's Blacklight Bingo will serve up to 550.

Blacklight Bingo's doors will open at 5 p.m.April 12 at the Arc's bingo hall at 3560 New Hartford Road. Bingo starts at 6:45 p.m.

After hosting bingo for more than 25 years, Arc officials decided last year to try something new. For the first time, they hosted a one-night Blacklight Bingo event.

Guests played bingo under blacklights in a party atmosphere. The event was such a success, Arc officials hope for a repeat.

Phillips is the first to say the first year taught them a lot.

"One of our big issues last year: We didn't have enough blacklights. But we've purchased some, and we will be renting additional ones. We should have more than enough blacklights this year."

Also, last year, food service moved a little slow, so Phillips and her staff came up with a plan to ensure that part of this year's event goes well.

Each $25 ticket includes a meal, bingo papers, dauber and blacklight bling, which consists of fluorescent do-dads. Games pay out between $150 for the first round and $1,000 for the jackpot.

In the ticket packet, guests will receive an entry form for door prizes.

Many items, including a $600 diamond necklace, computer bag and Wildcats memorabilia, will be raffled off for $1 chances. However, a $5 raffle ticket buys the chance to win an all-terrain vehicle. Anyone, whether or not they attend Blacklight Bingo, can buy a chance to win the ATV. The winner does not have to be present at the drawing.

For more information about tickets, call 270-685-2976. Also, tickets to the event and raffle tickets can be purchased at the Arc, 731 Jackson St., or at the bingo hall concessions booth at 3560 New Hartford Road.

Proceeds from the event will be split between the Arc and Daviess County Special Olympics.

The Arc is a nonprofit organization that serves people with developmental disabilities. Bingo is a major fundraiser for the Arc all year. At least 30 percent of the nonprofit's budget comes from bingo proceeds.

Renee Beasley Jones, 270-228-2835, rbeasleyjones@messenger-inquirer.com

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