Bingo night is one of Northwestern College’s many quirky and unique campus events.
This tradition gives students the chance to don elderly attire and enjoy an evening of bingo. Last year, the SAC took the competition to a new level by offering several big prizes.
“Bingo night is a night when all your wildest dreams come true,” said junior Nathan Mastbergen, who was one of the winners from last year’s bingo night.
An unsuspecting Mastbergen had given up hope of winning when he returned from the restroom in the middle of a game of bingo. He realized that he was only a few numbers away from a bingo. Mastbergen ended up winning the round and became the proud new owner of a LoveSac bean bag chair.
Although Mastbergen enjoys bingo night for its unique atmosphere, he admitted that the prizes enhanced his evening.
“Everyone gets really into it so that makes it fun, but when you win, the level of fun goes up a notch,” Mastbergen said.
Mastbergen’s bingo night prize has proven to have a lasting impact on his college experience.
“It’s a nice, comfortable piece of furniture for D-groups, lockdowns or just hanging out,” Mastbergen said. “It’s very good for naps, and it’s in a great place to jump off the top bunk onto.”
Mastbergen also admits that although some people have suggested that the LoveSac would be a draw for women, it has not had that effect.
Like many other students, Mastbergen has big plans for this year’s bingo night.
“I am a firm believer in doing everything to the best of my ability, so I’m in it to win it,” Mastbergen said.
Another success story from last year’s bingo night comes from sophomore Janet Pitsenberger, who won a yellow tandem bike.
“I didn’t realize at first that they had called my number,” Pitsenberger said. “I was close to a bingo and I was anticipating it. It took me a second; then I ran up in my old-person costume and heard that I won the bike and was very surprised.”
Like Mastbergen, Pitsenberger was pleasantly surprised by winning such a big prize.
“I was very in shock because I never win anything,” Pitsenberger said. “I was super pumped because of all of the prizes, I knew the bike was the one I would most likely use and thoroughly enjoy.”
The yellow tandem bike, which has become well known on NW’s campus, has been enjoyed by Pitsenberger as well as many other students.
“I’ve loved riding it, and I’ve let a lot of people borrow it. A lot of people have gotten use of it on campus,” Pitsenberger said.
Pitsenberger plans to attend bingo night again this year and is excited to dress up and have fun with friends.
At 9 p.m., Friday, Feb. 10, students will line the RSC mall area dressed like baby boomers waiting for their chance to take home one of the many alluring prizes of bingo night. This year’s prize list includes flex money, a ski trip in the Black Hills, a $200 textbook voucher, a Kindle Fire, a 6 month subscription to Netflix and two tickets to a Casting Crowns concert.
