Panola College Foundation raises $106,000 at Designer Purse Bingo

The Panola College Foundation hosted its annual Designer Purse Bingo fundraising event on March 27 at the Carthage Civic Center, attracting approximately 690 guests and raising a record-breaking $106,034 for student scholarships and program grants.

“Designer Purse Bingo continues to be a highlight event for Panola County each year, and we are so grateful for the incredible support that makes it possible,” said Joanna Huckabee, director of institutional advancement at Panola College. “It truly takes a team – from our hardworking volunteers and committed Foundation members to our generous sponsors and guests – and we appreciate everyone who played a part in this memorable evening.”

Brian Naples, professor of government, entertained the audience as the emcee, thanking the sponsors and calling out anticipated bingo numbers throughout the evening.

The event sponsor for the evening was Jacobe Brothers Construction, Inc., while Beauty Sense by Patricia served as both the program and food sponsor. Each guest took home a tote bag provided by Edward Jones Advisor – Hope O’Rear. Sanford & Sons, Inc. sponsored the centerpieces for each table, and Alli D’s Boutique provided cups, with Sodexo sponsoring napkins. The 360 Photo Booth experience was sponsored by Corgan. Pippen Motor Company and Rural Water Supply sponsored koozies, while High Roller Resources provided water bottles. Carthage Furniture and The King-Aultman Group, LLC sponsored beverages, and Hal’s AC & Electric provided popcorn for attendees. A signature drink was offered by Grind & Grain, with signature drink cups sponsored by Simply Beautiful Salon, and wine glasses provided by Cyclone Rentals.

Bonus games for the evening were sponsored by Beauty Sense by Patricia and DPT Services, giving guests the chance to carry home one of two Christian Louboutin bags.

Bingo purses included 24 different designs, with games sponsored by Austin Bank, Carthage Economic Development Corporation, Citizens Bank, EAG Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Carthage, MaxFlow Chemicals, Ms. K’s Suga Shack, Panola Dental, Sharps Medical Waste Services, Templeton Investments/L&K Express Wash, Twisted Peach Designs, VeraBank, and Voyager Midstream/My Sweet Addiction. The purses included brands such as Coach, Consuela, Kate Spade, Michael Kors, and more.

A popular raffle gave guests the opportunity to win a variety of prizes, including designer purses, took place during the event. Raffle sponsors DNC Facility Services, Farmers State Bank, Horne Rota Moos, Lazy K Boutique, Ransom Drilling, Revive & Restore Health & Wellness, Smith Energy Services, Strong Services, UT Health East Texas, Wagner Tax & Accounting, and Hope Community Medicine. Additional raffle prizes were donated by National Roper’s Supply and Republic National Distributing Company.

The Foundation extends its appreciation to Bear Creek Smokehouse, Jucy’s, and Wayne-Sanderson Farms for their generous food donations. Special thanks are also extended to Ann and Willis Blackwell for preparing the meal, helping to make the evening a success.

“Thanks to your support, we’re able to provide meaningful scholarships and program grants that directly benefit Panola College students, faculty, and staff,” added Huckabee. “We’re already excited for next year as we celebrate the 15th annual Designer Purse Bingo.”

Those who are interested in attending Designer Purse Bingo may contact the Panola College Office of Institutional Advancement at 903-693-2029 for more information.