STAFF REPORT
Glasgow News 1
For the fifth year in a row, the Barren County Family YMCA is inviting women across the community to grab their friends and their lucky bingo charms for a night of purses, pampering and a little friendly competition.
The annual Purse and Pamper BINGO night will bring an anticipated crowd of around 150 attendees to Willow Oaks Golf Club, where 20 designer handbags will be up for grabs throughout the evening.
“It’s like a girl’s night out,” said Barren County YMCA CEO Tara Bailey. “We’ll begin with dinner, there will be a cash bar, as well as a DJ so maybe some dancing too.”
Dinner will be prepared by Willow Oaks and will feature two entrée options: Honey Ham served with roast potatoes and green beans, or a vegetarian Alfredo.
The event blends the structure of traditional bingo with the atmosphere of a social gathering. Before the first number is ever called, guests will have the chance to browse a variety of vendors offering everything from jewelry to chair massages.
“People can shop and listen to the DJ,” explained event coordinator Lindy Pedigo. “There’ll also be some candid photos taken by Susan Marsden.”
The namesake game begins at 7 p.m., when players will settle in for 20 rounds of nine-card BINGO. Each round will produce one winner, who will walk away with a designer purse. In total, the handbags being given away are valued at more than $6,500.
Brands featured this year include Michael Kors, Tory Emerson, Kate Spade and others – a lineup that has helped the event grow steadily in popularity over its five-year run.
While the purses may be the headline attraction, organizers say the evening is as much about fellowship as it is about fashion. The event has become a staple fundraiser for the YMCA, supporting its programs and outreach efforts throughout Barren County. The proceeds from this year will go to the new senior center opening at the Y later this spring.
For many attendees, the night has become a tradition – an annual opportunity to gather, enjoy a meal, reconnect with friends and, with a little luck, head home with a new designer handbag.
Gage Wilson with Glasgow News 1 contributed to this reporting.
