Bingo Controversy

[mckeagan65]

The Houston County Commission is waging a bit of a war against the Alabama Governor's office over bingo.

Commissioners held a news conference Friday morning at the site of the Country Crossing Entertainment Complex on Highway 231, South of Dothan.

Country Crossing is counting on Bingo gaming to be a big part of the resort's success.

The commission is upset over the governor's deputy legal advisor who recently contacted the Nevada Gaming Commission, warning them that bingo machines are illegal in Alabama.

Commissioners say the actions are malicious, and undermining efforts to expand and complete Country Crossing.

They've sent a letter to the manufacturer of bingo equipment and the Nevada Gaming Commission, which seems to be siding with the commission over the governor.

"They determined in fact we are correct. And it is fine for the equipment to be shipped. They are also going to call the governor's office and inform them that they appreciated the concern, but they disagree with the governor's position," says Mark Culver.

The governor's office admits the legal staff contacted the Nevada Gaming Commission as part of a statewide effort to crack down on illegal gaming, and was not targeting Houston County.

[Harrycarter]

The Bingo controversy has certainly sparked a lot of discussion. It shows how quickly public reactions can grow when a brand’s message or campaign is misunderstood or considered insensitive. Situations like this remind companies how important it is to be mindful of cultural context and audience perception when creating marketing content.