By Chris Fischer
On Thurs., Mar. 20th Eastern Star Home held its 7th annual “Love You More” Bingo fundraiser. Proceeds from the fundraiser will be used for healthcare education scholarships.
The home’s gathering room was full of people of all ages. Activities director Lisa Haigh marked the attendance as 109. The event included rounds of Bingo, and a silent auction of donated items. The auction itself raised $1,053.
A pack of Bingo cards cost $10, and attendees could purchase extra cards for more chances. Several Bingos were called, and just as many $10 local gift cards were distributed. Games included classic Bingo, Popeye, Four Corners, and Blackout. The Blackout game had a $100 prize. Its winner donated the $100 back to the scholarship fund.
The scholarship and fundraiser were created in memory of Kennedy Tomsha, who used to work at Eastern Star. She left an impression on many people during her life. Several people donned memorial “Love You More” t-shirts.
Former co-workers described her as bubbly, kind, very compassionate, and willing to give someone the shirt off her back. When Eastern Star residents told her “Love you!” she liked to answer “Love you more!” Caring for the residents was more than just a job.
Friends and family came out to show their support. Jill Tomsha explained that the event was completely organized by Eastern Star Home’s staff. They just had to show up. “We think it’s a great thing. The family’s happy.” Tomsha said. She noted that the event always got a good crowd.

Tomsha said that their daughter loved working at the home. She would even visit residents who were in the hospital. At the time of her passing, the younger Tomsha had just begun her college career, and was thinking she’d like to eventually become a Physician Assistant.
Kaytlyn Boomsma, Kennedy Tomsha’s best friend since grade school, was also at the event. She said “It was hard to not have a good time around Kennedy.” Boomsma described her as constantly smiling and laughing. Her laugh was contagious. “She would really light up a room.” she added.
Haigh said that the staff of Eastern Star Home pitched in to make the event happen. Lyle Wagner announced the games, in between sets of dad jokes.
Two memorial scholarships were founded for graduates of Hitchcock-Tulare High School, which Kennedy Tomsha attended. One is via Eastern Star Home, and the other is through the Tomsha family.