BINGO at Riverview Terrace

By MARGARET HOBBS / Staff Reporter for the Southern Standard

Experienced Bingo caller Dot Rowe finds great joy in participating in the regular gatherings of the “Bingo Bunch.” (Margaret Hobbs photo)

Anyone visiting Riverview Terrace on Monday mornings would be pleasantly surprised to see the dining room filled with senior citizens enjoying rousing games of Bingo.

Both visiting seniors and Riverview residents anticipate the 10 a.m. gathering for both Bingo and the opportunity to visit with friends.

The new endeavor for Riverview came about when, after 8 years of having weekly Bingo meetings at Wal-Mart Supercenter, came to an end. Much to local management’s dismay, they had no choice but to cancel the games.

The staff at Riverview Terrace is happy to open their doors to accommodate the gathering.

“It’s wonderful to see them coming together here.” said Linda Newman-Greene. “Mr. Phillips was so sad to have to turn them away, but he has helped us get organized. He had donated a sound system for calling and regularly donates prizes for the seniors.”

Other area businesses and home health agencies have been gracious in also providing prizes and more are needed if anyone wants to contribute.

Dot Rowe, a feisty senior citizen herself, is the voice of Riverview Terrace Bingo. She has called Bingo games for almost 8 years and enjoys every minute of it.

“I usually call about 15 games a month. I see numbers in my dreams, but I love it!” says Rowe.

Benefits derived from the interaction is great, seniors not only get to visit with each other, they have the mental and physical stimulation so greatly needed by senior citizens.