Province pulls plug on Digby Neck bingos

The bingos were taking place in a commercial building, which is against the law, says the province. The building is leased by the society from its owner, Bilcon, proponents of a quarry that had been planned for the area.

Cindy Nesbitt, an independent candidate in the recent federal election and organizer of the bingo games, said the first games were held in February and as interest grew, the games became regular and over the summer were held weekly.

Nesbitt said during that period the Little River bingos consistently drew a capacity crowd of 64 regulars—Digby Neck women who paid from two to five dollars for a social evening. “Sometimes we had to turn people away.”

Nesbitt, co-owner with her husband Randy of the only gas bar on Digby Neck, said an official of the provincial gaming authority came into the store one day.

He said, “We’ve been made aware you are running a bingo and you should have a license.”

Nesbitt didn’t know this was a requirement, but made application immediately and was told the bingos could continue while that application was being considered. The building was subsequently inspected by the fire marshal and the local building inspector.

Nesbitt said the bingos were recycling all funds raised back to the participants and the local community, so she was surprised licensing was necessary.

Prizes were products and gift certificates donated by businesses and there was hot food served at intermission. The money from bingo tickets sales was banked so 25 Chrisco hampers could be purchased—and awarded as door prizes at the Christmas party for the 64 regular players. That party was originally scheduled for Dec. 7. “We were also purchasing five hampers for families in the community who might be in need,” said Nesbitt.

The Christmas party, which included prizes, party hats and a feast, was held early on Oct. 30. While there was a mood of festivity, a number of people present also expressed anger at the province’s decision. “As far as I’m concerned, the Little River bingos were the best value around,” said Eve Wood of East Ferry. “And this is the right place to have them. It’s a central location for people.

Wood has been a regular and said she plans a letter writing campaign. “I’m really miffed that they can shut us down. I’ll be writing to the premier, and Greg Kerr and the licensing board.”

Brenda Morrell said she returned to the Digby area after several years away and the bingos have been a method for her to meet people and find out what’s going on.

Cheryl Guier of Freeport was also at the party in spite of having surgery just a few days earlier. “I didn’t want to miss this,” she said.

Nesbitt said the bingos drew women from Brier Island to Rossway and was one of the few social activities on Digby Neck.