Every Thursday night at the Portuguese Hall in Point Loma for the past seven years, a lively crowd gathers to try their luck at Bingo. Doors open at 4 p.m., and the games begin at 6:30 p.m. Players must be age 18 or older. The cost is $21.
Ten regular games pay out $250, with the Progressive Jackpot at $1,199. If you arrive hungry, the Portuguese Café offers dinner specials. The beloved bartender, JD, mans the full-service bar throughout the night.
The games draw regulars and newbies alike, so whether you’ve been playing for years or thought “Bingo” was just a name for a dog in a children’s song, all are welcome. Volunteer floor workers are happy to help if you’ve got questions. The Portuguese Hall is at 818 Avenida De Portugal. (619) 223-5880. upses.com/bingo
Roman Bech and his mother Phyllis at the game table.
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Patricia Leon, Peggy Terrill and Kim Holcomb
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Siggi Grayson and Evette Burleson, sell lucky charms to other players.
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A table of regulars focused on their cards, waiting to mark the last few numbers needed to win.
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Eva Abbott, Melissa Cormier and Rachelle Cormier giggle and get camera-shy during their weekly Bingo game.
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A player marks her card.
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‘Good ol’ J.D.’ has been tending bar for the past 42 years, working at the Bingo games for about four years.
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Joanne Engelhart is a weekly Bingo queen, and on this particular evening, wins $200.
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Tony Cefalu proudly holds up his Bingo card.
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An overview of the Bingo crowd Thursday, Feb. 28 at the Portuguese Hall
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A table of regulars keep their heads down so they don’t miss a single number called out.
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These lucky troll dolls belong to Robert San Nicolas. ‘They’re married!’ he explained.
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Don Bagley seems to be enjoying himself!
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Stephanie Heyn holds up her lucky elephant friend, Feathers. ‘Don’t forget Feathers!’ she told Point Loma-OB Monthly .
