Bunko is more than an evening of playing a game.
It is a party that includes a meal, a time for catching up, and an opportunity to share the news of each family represented.
Add the anticipation and excitement of shouting out “Bunko!” and you have a fun night on your hands.
Bunko, played with three dice and a whole lot of luck, originated in 19th century England and was imported to San Francisco in 1855. The shout of “Bunko!” signifies a win and a chance to wear a colorful lei until another shout interrupts play.
The group The Star-Herald visited with at the home of hostess Diane Mayo are Becky Rasberry, Bobbie Hoffmister, Mary Hudson, Peggy Barton, Deborah Tavares, Dana Nichols, Daphne Dabbs, Brenda Williams, Linda Simmons and Carolyn 
White. There is also a roster of substitutes who fill in when a member is unable to attend. Daphne Dabbs, Carolyn White, Mary Hudson and Deborah Tavares are founding members of this group.
The evening begins with a meal in the home of the hostess or in another venue. Once the tables are cleared, however, members ready for play finding their places at three tables, each prepared for four.
Excitement grows as the games get underway.
“We get very excited and loud. When somebody wins ‘Big Bunko’ everybody knows about it,” said Carolyn White.
As games progress, someone in the group is always wearing the lei signifying she is a “Big Bunko” winner. Six winners are named throughout the evening with prizes awarded to each.
The hostess sharing the recipe for the food she serves is part of each gathering.
Mary Hudson, credited with organization of the group, said members have created a bond and look forward to each meeting. Sherlene Robertson was also instrumental in the organization.
After the games are over and the prizes are awarded, a quieter mood decends on the group as they share their joys, sorrows and concerns during a time of prayer.
This group of 12 ladies is representative of many area gatherings for game nights. Do you know of a group who gets together to play some other game that we should feature? Let us know at news@starherald.net.
