Trudie Rainone, Karen Deigl, Jesse Strang and Alex Beuttell Roberts [Photo: Kaila Jones]

A sold-out group of more than 200 ladies – and a smattering of men – gathered at the Oak Harbor Club to ‘Seas the Day’ at the 15th annual Bingo Luncheon, presented by New Vision Eye Center, to benefit the Senior Resource Association.

Arriving guests, greeted by Aquaman and a mermaid, sipped on champagne and mimosas while perusing assorted auction items. Many also purchased last-minute raffle tickets in hopes of winning beautiful carved abalone shell and yellow diamond earrings, donated by Trudie Rainone, who donned a sensational octopus costume for the occasion.

Kay Brown of Premier Estate Properties said she was hoping the 15th time would be the charm, saying, “I’m one of the original sponsors and I’ve never ever won a Bingo game.”

As they filtered into the dining room, everyone was impressed with the event committee’s fabulous ocean-themed décor, which featured colorful jellyfish hanging from chandeliers, fish netting strung across the ceiling, marine-based centerpieces and undersea scenes projected on two large screens.

Board president Don Wright spoke about the vital importance of their Meals on Wheels and newly renamed Day-Away and LifeWay (formerly Adult Enrichment & Respite) programs, which the event supports.

“I can see first-hand the appreciation and the smiles on folks’ faces when you walk up there with a hot meal. A lot of times, that’s the only meal they get, and a lot of times that’s the only conversation they have with anybody. It’s an eye-opener,” said Wright, adding that they are always looking for volunteer drivers to deliver the meals.

The Day-Away and LifeWay programs, Wright said, gives respite to caregivers, enabling them to drop off loved ones at centers in Vero Beach and Sebastian, knowing they will be cared for by licensed individuals in a safe, social and engaging environment.

“Your generosity allows many residents to be able to stay at home longer. I think it extends people’s lives,” said Wright. Citing how well-run the 35-year-old organization is, he said that roughly 90 percent of donations go directly into programming.

Karen Deigl, SRA CEO, shared a story about one elderly woman who had been living in dire circumstances, but who, thanks to now utilizing a number of SRA services, is able to remain in her own home.

“So thank you for your generosity, which helps our clients and caregivers in need to receive the services and the support that they need,” said Deigl.

And then it was time for some fierce but friendly rivalry, beginning with the ever-upbeat Anna Valencia Tillery presiding over a Seas the Day-themed Purse Game, which had women digging into their oversized satchels to search for, said Tillery, “some things you’re going to need for a day out under the sea,” from a bathing suit (yup, one woman had one), to a snorkel mask (nope, none of those).

This year’s Bingo caller was Amy Dingler, owner of Amy’s Pressure Cleaning, who also tours the country as a stand-up comic. “I’ve seen her sit down, too,” said Deigl in her introduction.

And then, their colorful bingo daubers at the ready, the competitive guests got down to business – their quiet concentration broken only as gleeful shouts of BINGO rang out – with winners taking home a bounty of gifts donated by local businesses.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the April 20 SRA Pro-Am Charity Golf Tournament has been cancelled. Check with SRA regarding the April 23 Silver Tones Spring Concert, featuring hits by Elvis and Queen.

For more information visit SeniorResourceAssociation.org.