Bingo fundraiser marks 'Toys' start

SANDPOINT - Halloween is over, the elections have done and Thanksgiving is just around the corner.

And that means that it is time for the Bonner Mall Merchants Association's annual Turkey Bingo games to benefit Toys for Tots.

The Sandpoint Lions are asking the community to support what promises to be a high demand for assistance this Christmas.

"With the reality of the economic turndown, we know that many will be seeking a supporting hand in the form of food boxes and toys this year," Lion President Bill Lewis said.

Last year, the Toys For Tots drive exceeded the Lions $46,000 goal, but the dollar amount of this year's goal is still being calculated, Lions Club officials said.

The games will be held Thursday and Friday from 6 to 8 p.m., and again on Saturday 1 to 5 p.m. Prizes will be awarded to winners, and some very special toys will be raffled.

The games will take place in the area of Sandy's Sugar Shack, which will remain, open as well as the Sandpoint Diner is offering a wide variety of goodies from fudge to hamburgers.

Lion Treasurer Della Kenworthy said the $2,500 raised during last year's Turkey Bingo made a major down payment on Toys For Tots.

With greater demand anticipated this year, Lions officials said they hope this year's effort will do even better.

The Lions want to thank the Bonner Mall Merchants Association and Betty Stepek for all their work and contributions to get this effort under way. The Lions hope that our caring community will turnout, enjoy the bingo games, and help those who need some cheer this Christmas season.