LISTEN: John Akaki takes pleasure and finds meaning in calling bingo. GPB intern Taleen Hanna brings us this audio postcard.

The bingo machine that Akaki uses is programmed to beep when the next ball should be called. The bingo machine and the board with numbers on it costs about $15,000. Although the cost is high, the quality of the equipment ensures the fairness of the games.

The bingo machine that Akaki uses is programmed to beep when the next ball should be called. The bingo machine and the board with numbers on it costs about $15,000. Although the cost is high, the quality of the equipment ensures the fairness of the games.

Credit: Taleen Hanna

People go to all kinds of places in search of meaning for their lives. For many it's church. For other it's the ball park, concerts, museums...maybe book clubs. John Akaki finds meaning in his post-retirement job as a bingo caller at the Moose Lodge in Macon.

His affection for the game is rooted in honor for his late mother — a connection from heaven to here, he said.

"She probably says, 'I never thought my son would be calling bingo games!'" he quipped.

Akaki’s job requires clear delivery, especially since most of the players take the game seriously. He says that they are “committed to this sport of sorts.”

Akaki’s job requires clear delivery, especially since most of the players take the game seriously. He says that they are “committed to this sport of sorts.”

Credit: Taleen Hanna

"Not everyone wins," Akaki said, "but the wealth is spread around over time."

Tags: Macon  Macon Bibb  Georgia  Bingo  Fun  Living better  mother