Bingo resolution prompts news conference

Bingo resolution prompts news conference

In response to messengers passing a resolution on electronic bingo gambling, Alabama Citizens Action Program (ALCAP) held a news conference Nov. 18 shortly after the conclusion of the Alabama Baptist State Convention (ABSC).

The resolution as originally presented Nov. 17 at the meeting held at Whitesburg Baptist Church, Huntsville, noted the ABSC’s historical opposition to gambling, the constitution’s prohibition of games of chance, constitutional amendments for 18 areas (16 counties and two cities) to support legalized charity bingo and the Governor’s Task Force on Illegal Gambling and called for messengers to

  • reaffirm opposition to electronic bingo gambling at any location in the state.
  • call upon Baptist pastors to inform and educate each congregation on the evils of gambling.
  • call upon the Alabama Legislature in its 2010 regular session to oppose any legislation that would permit or expand gambling of any type.
  • applaud and support Gov. Bob Riley and his task force.
  • send a copy of the resolution to the governor’s office, dignitaries, state legislators and media outlets.

During discussion of the resolution, ALCAP Executive Director Joe Godfrey proposed an amendment: “Whereas the Alabama Supreme Court recently ruled that the electronic bingo machines currently operating in Alabama do not meet the definition of the traditional game of bingo.”

It passed unanimously.

“Electronic bingo machines are being determined by the courts to be what they are — slot machines and, thus, illegal in Alabama,” Godfrey said at the news conference. “A federal judge, two circuit court judges and the Alabama Supreme Court have all agreed that these electronic bingo machines are not the same as traditional games of bingo and are actually illegal slot machines.”

He also commended Riley “for recognizing the harmful effects of gambling and for taking steps to rid our state of this evil” and urged citizens to contact legislators, asking them to vote no on gambling bills.

Because of a family illness, Resolutions Committee chairman Sid Nichols was unable to be present.

Jim Graham, pastor of Coosada Baptist Church, served as acting chair, presenting seven additional resolutions:

  • On affirming Great Commission ministries — reaffirming the mission emphasis of the ABSC, “One Mission, The Great Commission; One Program, The Cooperative Program; Many Ministries, Great Commission Ministries,” and resolving to continue partnership with the Southern Baptist Convention in reaching Alabama, North America and the world with the gospel of Jesus Christ.
  • On affirming the Cooperative Program (CP) — recognizing Alabama’s Baptist entities, the importance of working as cooperative ministries and the CP’s role in propelling ministry.
  • On Baptist heritage — recognizing the 400th anniversary of the modern Baptist movement and calling pastors to recognize a Baptist Heritage Sunday and other Baptist heritage events.
  • On appreciation for Andrew W. Tampling — honoring longtime Alabama Baptist pastor and leader Andrew W. Tampling for his many years of faithful servanthood to the convention and denominational life. Tampling died Oct. 30.
  • On appreciation for Thomas E. Corts — honoring Thomas E. Corts, retired president of Samford University in Birmingham, for his many years of commitment to Christian higher education. Corts died Feb. 4.
  • On appreciation for Noxie “Buster” Taylor — thanking Noxie “Buster” Taylor, executive director of Shocco Springs Baptist Conference Center in Talladega, for his 30 years of ministry, leadership and service at Shocco Springs.
  • On appreciation — thanking convention leadership, Madison Baptist Association, area churches and Whitesburg Baptist for hosting the 2009 annual meeting.