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The
game of bingo has come full circle and then some. Originating in
Italy as lo Giuco del Lotto in 1530, bingo is once again
popular there due to the government’s legalization of the pastime
in 2000.
But it’s not just for adults any more. Throughout the country, high
tech bingo salons attract scores of teenagers who have helped transform
this once staid game into a fashionable night time activity.
Borrowing a page from Las Vegas, the parlors use huge video screens,
loud music and flashing lights to draw customers in, and cash prizes
keep them coming back. Young patrons with disposable income have
made bingo as popular as clubbing.
With an estimated $50 million per month going to the government,
promoters are more than pleased with bingo’s success – 800 bingo
halls are expected to open by 2005.
Source: Italian America magazine
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