Thunder Bay Synchro Bingo Schedule February – March 2012

BINGO Frequently Asked Questions

Why do we do bingos?
For the money. Our club will earn in excess of $6,000 this season.

What’s involved in working a bingo?
For the most part all the bingo workers need to worry about is selling cards and calling back bingos. Workers are generally assigned their position for the evening by one of the BFM’s (okay, I do the assignments). Workers are needed as follows: the door (2), special station (1), u pick ‘um (1), floor (3-4), cash room (2).

What’s a BFM?
BFM is short for Bona Fide Member. On the schedule the BFM’s are highlighted in yellow. The BFM’s are responsible for the running of the bingo that evening, and are required to be present throughout the night.

What time do I have to be there?
BFM’s are required to be at the bingo hall no later that 5:00 p.m. Everyone else needs to be present and ready to go by 5:30 p.m. Bingos are usually done by 10:00 p.m.

What if I can’t work my assigned bingo?
It is your responsibility to find a replacement worker. You can trade off with another synchro member or have another adult work for you. If you absolutely cannot find a replacement, and you know in advance, and not at the last minute, contact Wendy.

Can my child work the bingo for me?
No. Bingo workers must be at least 16 years of age. Volunteer hours are available for high school students looking to fulfill that obligation, please let me know in advance.

Can I “buy out” my bingo obligation?
No, that isn’t an option because we are too small a club.

Is this all the fundraising we do as a club?
No, there will be other activities.

Is bingo fun?
It ranks somewhere between a root canal and a night on the town with Tiger Woods.

How many bingos will I have to work?
Most of the parents will work four bingos (roughly a 20 hour commitment). Those who have more than one swimmer or who were foolish enough to volunteer to be the bingo coordinator will work substantially more. Your bingo commitment to the club runs from September to September.

If I take over as bingo coordinator next season will I get a discount of my synchro fees?
Good luck, it hasn’t happened so far.

How are the names selected?
All of the names are put into a hat.

Can I still play bingo if I volunteer to work at them?
Maybe. Obviously you cannot play at a bingo you are working. Thunder Bay Charity Bingo has a rule which prohibits anyone who works bingos for more than three groups/charities from playing bingo in the hall.