Bingo is the Name of the Game

It was all about the numbers on last Sunday at the Arundel Volunteer Fire Department. 

Fifty hot dogs, 100 cup cakes, 200 cookies and lots of numbered Bingo cards. All these at the AVFD Ladies Auxiliary's annual Children’s Bingo. 

“This is one of the many events that the auxiliary hosts every year to raise money. Over the years we have purchased new office printers/copiers, computers, dining table and chairs for the kitchen, a microwave, a TV, etc. for the AVFD,” said long-time Auxiliary President Carene Housenfluck. 

“The Children's Bingo has been a popular event for local youngsters (and many parents) for several years and is probably going to be around for years to come.  The children win non-monetary "prizes" that are age appropriate.  Some prizes are donated by local businesses but many are purchased or donated by the members,” said Housenfluck. 

Historically, ladies auxiliaries were started because women were not allowed to be firefighters. "The wives, mothers and girlfriends wanted a way to support the work of their husbands, sons and boyfriends who were EMT's, medics and firefighters," explained Kitty Gross, a 24-year member.

The AVFD auxiliary was chartered in 1987.

“Our auxiliary is small compared to many local auxiliaries; we have only 10 active members, but we are able to accomplish quite a bit despite our numbers,” said Gross. 

Whitney Dieux of Shady Side celebrated her son’s birthday at the event. 

“I drive by the AVFD sign everyday on my way to work. When I saw the Children's Bingo event, I thought what a great way to celebrate Noah’s birthday. He loves fire trucks. Not only did the kids in the party get to play bingo but also got a tour of the station,” said Dieux.

She had over 10 children attending the event to celebrate Noah’s birthday. She also said “They will have a pit-beef sandwich sale at the fire house next Saturday and Noah says he would like to come back then!”

Stacey Kurnmeyer attended the bingo with her daughters Emma and Sydney. “We never miss a Children’s Bingo. My husband is a fire fighter and we think it is great to see children visiting with firefighters in a non-emergency situation. The girls love visiting the station and the chance to win a prize,” says Kurnmeyer of Bowie. “This is a nice community driven event. The girls and I got to spend a great afternoon together, enjoy lunch and support the AVFD at the same time,” said Kurnmeyer.

“Mackenzie and I look forward to coming to all the events at the AVFD. This was our first time at Children’s Bingo but we will be back for the Halloween Children’s Bingo in October,” said Denise Willson. 

Eight year old Wells had her heart set on the new Harry Potter movie DVD.  “I was hoping to win and I did!  I read the book so I am ready to see the movie,” said smiling Wells.