Due to a litany of challenges that have come his way lately, it’s been a tough go of it for Curt George.

That all changed for George on Wednesday evening after his name was revealed as the winner of the $1,000 grand prize in the eighth annual Times News Bingo contest.

With the win, George can only hope the tides have turned and that his stretch of hard times eases up in time for the holiday season.

“I really need it,” George said. “My TV went (Tuesday), my car don’t work, my daughter’s car went; I just had double bypass heart surgery.”

George, of Palmerton, said he was surprised to hear his name called.

“I couldn’t believe it,” he said. “This is great; I appreciate it.”

George said he liked playing the game.

“I enjoy doing it,” he said. “I’m glad I won.”

George was among 50 finalists from the 789 completed cards that were received. That was about 100 fewer completed cards than last year.

The finalists received a phone call and the Times News printed the 50 finalists names in the newspaper on Dec. 11 and 13.

Jennifer Benninger, advertising director, noted the contest began on Sept. 6, with the bingo card inserted into the newspaper, as well as the first bingo number advertisement.

A bingo number ad was in the Times News every day up through Nov. 28.

Because this is a coverall bingo game, all the numbers on the card had to be filled out and received by 4 p.m. Dec. 5 in order to qualify.

The finalists were then picked on Dec. 8.

“Each fall, we’re excited to offer our readers this bingo game, culminating in a $1,000 cash prize just before the holidays,” Benninger said. “We appreciate our sponsors and readers whose support makes local journalism possible.”

In addition to main sponsor and grand prize party host, the Lehighton Outdoor Center, Benninger also thanked the other sponsors of the contest: Hager Furniture, Pencor Hydraulics and TN Printing.

A sponsorship raffle was also held in which $25 gift cards were given out from the following sponsors: Cindy’s Deli, Basile Italian Delight Restaurant, Mint Salon & Spa, Jim Thorpe Market and two from Krebs Auto Detailing.