The State - News from April 12, 1989

A retired welder from Gardena figures he hit a $5,000 jackpot in a bingo game at the Soboba Indian Bingo Hall in Riverside County, but was awarded only $750. Jose Hernandez, 64, and other players say the announcer proclaimed the game was worth $5,000 before it began, and introduced Hernandez as a $5,000 winner after it ended. But bingo officials say the announcer erred, because the game was listed on the program as having a $750 prize. “It was disgusting,” said Peggy Kiester of San Bernardino, who sat at the table across from Hernandez. “The man had hit the big one and they should pay up.” Hernandez’ daughter said the family is ready to go to court over what she calls a matter of principle.