Assembly Resolution No. 782

BY: M. of A. Woerner

MEMORIALIZING Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim
June 27, 2025, as National Bingo Day in the State of
New York

WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to recognize
official days that are set aside to acknowledge significant American
traditions that positively impact the lives of citizens of New York
State; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, it is the sense of this Legislative Body to
memorialize Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim Friday, June 27, 2025, as
National Bingo Day in the State of New York; and

WHEREAS, National Bingo Day helps raise awareness about the social
and charitable benefits the game provides while also highlighting the
enduring appeal of bingo as an inclusive and entertaining activity; and

WHEREAS, National Bingo Day is celebrated by special games,
promotions, and activities, both in traditional bingo halls and across
digital platforms; and

WHEREAS, Bingo originated in Italy in 1530 and was known as the
Italian lottery in which old cigar boxes were used to pull wooden
numbers from while players would mark off their numbers on their cards
using beans, which is why the game was originally called "beano"; the
game spread to France where it was known as "Le Lotto," and was played
by the French aristocracy; and

WHEREAS, Bingo was popularized by a New York toy salesman, Edwin S.
Lowe, who in December 1929, invented the bingo card after coming across
the game being played at a fair in Jacksonville, Georgia; he worked
alongside a mathematics professor (Carl Leffler) to invent cards with at
least 6000 combinations; and

WHEREAS, The game features paper cards with 24 numbered squares
arranged in five rows, five columns, and a free space in the middle; and

WHEREAS, Bingo promotes community spirit, supports local charities
and offers a fun, low-pressure way for people to socialize; and

WHEREAS, For many, bingo is more than a game-it's a cherished
tradition that connects generations, encourages friendly competition in
a welcoming environment, emphasizes community spirit, and supports local
charities; and

WHEREAS, Thanks to the rise of mobile gaming, bingo is making a
comeback, connecting players all over the world; and

WHEREAS, With the rise of online bingo and virtual bingo, the
average age of players is now estimated at 35, despite its popularity
being traditionally amongst seniors; and

WHEREAS, 80% of bingo players are female and it is estimated that
Americans spend over $90 million on bingo cards per week; and

WHEREAS, With a rich history reaching back to the 16th century,
bingo has become an American institution that defines the fabric of this
nation's sense of community and entertainment; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
memorialize Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim June 27, 2025, as National
Bingo Day in the State of New York; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to The Honorable Kathy Hochul, Governor of the State of New
York.