Marina residents now have a local spot for bingo games thanks to a nonprofit group that contributes to extracurricular programs at Salinas-area schools.

The hall began offering games Jan. 15 at the American Legion hall on Marina Drive. The hall is sponsored by the Booster of Salinas Schools group, which supports music and sports programs for schools and colleges in the Salinas area.

While Salinas offers at least two other bingo halls, Marina bingo hall officials said they have introduced something unique: "Gem Hunt," a speed bingo game developed for small handheld electronic units.

Jo Murray, a volunteer with Boosters of Salinas Schools, described the game as a combination of bingo, poker and slot machine games.

The games already have started to attract attention among Marina residents, Murray said.

"We've seen that participation has been picking up here," she said. "We offer folks a player-friendly business."

Doors open at 2 p.m. every Monday, Wednesday and Thursday. The game "Gem Hunt" begins at 2:30 p.m. each day until the regular bingo session begins at 6:30 p.m. A second session of "Gem Hunt" begins at 10 p.m.

A $50 bingo package buy-in includes 20 packs of nine games. A $30 buy-in also is available.

The hall also sells popular pull tabs, and players can buy into Gem Hunt for any amount, Murray said.