heavenstar

For over 30 years, we have used the same bingo machine and flashboard. It is the same as in large bingo halls. They are very spoiled to this system (some residents have lived and played bingo here for 28 of those years!) Problem is: The machine finally died-- it's been on it's last legs for 10 years and we have always patched it up. The flashboard still works-- but nothing is compatible anymore. I have tried several times in the past to get a donated machine-- when we do, they never work, are in the same condition or convenietly break during transport. And then I have to find someway to haul it off. Our resdients' council has some money to buy a new one-- but will not have a flashboard-- and this is fine with our small group of regular bingo players. But the large parties-- they really need to see the numbers (especially because they do not speak Engllish) Here is my question: For large group parties (150 residents and 20 volunteers) what other games can we play? My residents don't speak English so games like pictionary are out. They love Pokeno-- but I can only find the game with 12 cards. Any ideas on good projects to do?

ExxonMobile is coming to my facility during volunteer week on May 1st and they wanted to do a Prom-- 80's theme. I have a zero budget! They are buying food and music and everything we need except table centerpieces! I am sure I can come up with something-- i need about 18 of them, but I am just dry on ideas! The first (and only) one I have done so far is: Record bowl filled with styrofoam, a ruler coming out of the foam wrapped in white and black polka dotted ribbon. Topped with a styrofoam ball that is covered in a hot pink boa and mardigras beads hanging down in loops that are hot pink, purple and white. Also, in the bottom of the bowl, I have hot pink and purple fabric wrapped around a few cassette tapes. I would like to do something with a rubiks cube (i don't have one, so I would have to spend my own money on one), pac man, atari, fingerless gloves, ??? What else can I do that is cheap or free? I know you don't know what I have, but it is probably similar to what you have, so help me think, Please! Also for decorating the room, the only thing i can come up with is streamers, balloons and twinkle lights everywhere. Any other suggestions?