That Was the Year That Was: 2014

Our top stories for 2014:

10. Sheffield Police: As bad as Russellville? Not yet.
9. Angel Gieske finally arrested, but DHR marches on.
8. Lauderdale Sheriff candidate attempts to redefine family values.
7. Colbert County School Superintendent a law unto himself.
6, Heroin rears its ugly head in Shoals.
5. Mucho disgruntled citizens in Muscle Shoals.
4. UNA problems: No show Chinese benefactors, Football favoritism, Fatophobia.
3. Who knew tourism was so cut-throat?
2. Muscle Shoals High needs real leadership.
1. Three local youth ministers arrested on sex charges.

Honorable mention: Anyone whose mugshots are so numerous you feel like you're looking at old friends every time you see them.

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It was a stormy Monday afternoon, exactly three years after the worst tornadoes the South had ever seen. In the days before NOAH radio, almost everyone had their radio or television on to check weather updates. Jack Worley's voice suddenly interrupted WOWL programming while a static image proclaimed a bulletin.

There was a confirmed plane crash just outside Atlanta. The plane had left Huntsville less than an hour before. What wasn't confirmed was the speculation that it was the same plane that had originated in Muscle Shoals carrying nine passengers. Almost everyone knew a neighbor, friend, or family member who regularly took this commuter flight. Just who was on board that day?

In an era before cell phones, all landlines were in use. Very few could get a line out to call anyone, even if they knew whom to call. Some minutes later it was confirmed that it was indeed the Muscle Shoals flight that had crashed. Only one of the Muscle Shoals passengers survived. A wife who managed to get through to the hospital where her husband was taken was told not to travel in the dubious weather; her husband would be dead before she arrived.

The following video tells the story; while a little technical in the middle, the end is very moving. Earl Johnson, a victim mentioned in the memorial ceremony, was a brother to Jimmy Johnson of Muscle Shoals Sound.


Why focus on this today? Ironically, one of our top ten stories of 2014 is quite probably a direct result of this crash. We'll have more next year!



Shoalanda

What's Wrong in Cherokee Schools?

From "Frustrated Parent & Alumna of Cherokee" (edited to remove potentially libelous statements):

Lets talk about the Colbert County Board of Education and their red headed step child--the Cherokee schools!

I would love to know why so many of the teachers are currently sending their children to private school! Explain why Dr. Cornelius, the assistant superintendent (and God forbid, do not leave off the 'Dr.' he WILL correct you, even if you have known him his entire life) sent his eldest daughter to Cherokee until her 9th grade year and only transferred to Deshler, after she (had problems). Now 2 of his children are in the Tuscumbia schools system (where they do in fact live), yet he practically runs the Colbert County system and his wife teaches at Cherokee Elementary! Why is Cherokee and the Colbert County system no longer good enough? Why is the elementary librarian sending her children to Mars Hill, why are multiple teachers now sending their children to Covenant Christian and why are their peers following the same path?

How can you improve a system when you are an educator, but don't feel the system is good enough for your own children? What message does this send and what does this say about the teachers and the administration?

There are wonderful teachers and admins at Cherokee, this is no reflection on the ones who actually care! This is about the ones who feel it is okay to draw a paycheck from a school system that isn't good enough for their own children!

CHEROKEE IS SEVERELY BEHIND AND NO ONE CARES! 'Dr.' Cornelius is too busy worrying about people recognizing his title and not concerned enough with the real issues at hand. He is a coward!

Cherokee is NOT a bad school. Sure, it is a small town that isn't exactly climbing in number, but that isn't a reason to fail the school and be a factor in why the schools are facing closing their doors! Wake up people, your issues within the Colbert County school systems starts in the central office and end with teachers being snobs, so much that their own positions aren't good enough for their own children!

They make me want to vomit! What about the kids who are being left behind? I thought we were in an equality day and age!

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Also from a reader:

Currently, from an informal polling of Sheffield residents and businesses, there is an increasing lack of confidence in the Sheffield Police Department's ability, or willingness, to perform its duties to the citizens of Sheffield. At any given time, the officers that are supposed to be patrolling are either at the Police Department, at the Shell station on Hatch Blvd., or at McDonald's.

It has been reliably reported to me that yesterday, a marked Sheffield police cruiser was seen being driven by an African American female CIVILIAN.

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Shoalanda

Bid Laws/Angel Update

Robert Gonce

We've seen several comments concerning the proposed Florence-Lauderdale Tourism Board contract with Mr. Robert Gonce. The problem with the contract in no way concerned Mr. Gonce's abilities or ethics. Some board members were concerned that the proposed contract was not on the agenda and that no bids had been requested for these services. That in no way is a reflection on Mr. Gonce.

Alabama bid laws exempt professional services. In other words, pvc pipe of a certain thickness is more or less the same and those purchasing it should seek the best price. Attorneys, architects, accountants, etc. are a different matter. Your cousin the real estate attorney might agree to defend you in a murder trial for 50.00 an hour, but would you really want him/her to?

The downside is this policy leads to nepotism and good ol' boy politics. It does pay to question such contracts, but in this case we don't see any irregularities.

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An Angel Update: Apparently Angel Morris Gieske was not indicted by the most recent Lauderdale County grand jury. She is awaiting trial in Walker County on charges of First Degree Theft and Theft by Deception. So when's her trial there? Good question.

According to the Walker County Circuit Clerk's office supervisor, Cecelia by name, the office does not give out that information, bur refers those seeking such info to AlaCourt. When questioned on the rationale for this possibly illegal policy, Cecelia replied, "We ain't got the staff for that."

If any readers have an AlaCourt account or are nearby any county courthouse and curious, please send us any information on Gieske. Her victims eagerly await.

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An oldie, but a goodie:

How Do They Get All These Jobs?

Shoalanda

Dick Jordan Speaks...on Tourism...Surprise

In today's TimesDaily, Lisa Singleton-Rickman's article on the latest Florence-Lauderdale Tourism news is informative...as far as it goes. We've commented before that any local official could state to the TD that they've just returned from a lunar vacation and no writer would even blink. Perhaps these writers have been told not to veer from the script, but when the interviewee makes, shall we say, a very odd statement, wouldn't it be in the readers' best interest to follow up?

First, let's see what Florence City Councilman Dick Jordan said on the tourism board issue. Mr. Jordan's comments are in red; our take on the remarks is in green:

Florence City Council President Dick Jordan said he’s aware of the public backlash since the meeting. He also said Morris’ sentiments aren’t representative of the council as a whole.

Morris' remarks are representative of most Florence citizens who are in favor of more transparency in local government. Obviously, they are not Mr. Jordan's sentiments.

He said the council will abide by state law and not remove either of the two men, Abramson and Muhlendorf, who are appointed by the city. “We appointed these board members to act on their own and our intention is not to micromanage,” Jordan said. “They are appointed for four years, and when their terms are up we’ll re-evaluate and at that time either reappoint or choose a successor.”

And just how were these board members selected? From a WAFF story: "Everyone tells us, including Tourism, that they're number one in the state. If you're number one in the state, adding someone is not going to make you any better. I picked the most qualified and that's what I did. I went through the applicants and regardless of what committee they're on or where their (sic) from, I picked who I felt was the most qualified." said Jordan. So Mr. Jordan picked them, did he? He now says "we," but in October he used the personal pronoun "I"--very interesting. Just which one was it?

Anything else left out of the story? Ahem...yes. Dick Jordan's wife Libby Watts Jordan is currently the curator of the Rosenbaum home; before that she was the director of cultural tourism--the only one the board ever had. She was the first to hold that title, and apparently when Ms. Jordan left the position of cultural director, the board felt there was no need to replace her. 

As far as we know, there is still an ongoing lawsuit concerning L. Jordan's appointment as Rosenbaum home curator:

New Director of Rosenbaum Home

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There have been a great number of comments online supporting Adam W. McKinney, the Rogersville man accused of physically abusing his girlfriend's 13 month-old son. We will address one of them: Were the child's injuries definitely intentionally inflicted?

Nothing is 100% in such a case, but we're going with the medical personnel on their take of the situation. We sincerely doubt that Athens Police have any grudge against McKinney.

We know that Limestone DHR has the victim in their custody. We would like to know if McKinney's partner's two older sons have also been placed in their care. McKinney is now out of custody on bail.

Shoalanda

Liability? Might Be a Good Idea to Check

We recently mentioned possible liability concerning the use of trusties in a jail system. While it is supposedly impossible to sue a city or county in Alabama, rest assured it can be done...and plenty of attorneys are out there who would just love to do it.

Trusties working outside the jail might not be Sheffield's only worry. From a reader:

I have received another complaint about Sheffield Police Department's refusal to answer calls. Allegedly the Sheffield Police Department's dispatcher refused to send an officer to do a report on a citizen's complaint earlier this week. As a former LEO, it is disheartening and embarrassing to hear of such unprofessionalism in a career field that is currently 'under the microscope'. Perhaps the City of Sheffield should consider dissolving its police department. I'm sure other more productive uses of the money saved could be found.

On a slightly different front, we've been told that at many schools in the area volunteer coaches are the norm. We've recently seen a volunteer coach at Deshler murdered allegedly because of his gambling interests. Another volunteer in Franklin County has been challenged due to his overt religious influence.

Are these volunteers covered by school system liability insurance? We certainly hope so.

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Shoalanda

Who Abused 13 Month-Old Boy?

A 13 month-old Rogersville boy was recently taken to Athens Hospital for some serious injuries:

Adam McKinney

Now McKinney has posted this on his Facebook page:

Believe wat u wanna believe i know that im wrongfully accused of sumthin that i would never do and im puttin this n gods hands

Earlier posts by McKinney indicate that someone had accused his girlfriend of the abuse. So who abused this child? Obviously the authorities have some evidence against McKinney or they wouldn't have arrested him. Here's a very telling study:

Cohabitation and Abuse

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Want to stick it to North Korea? (Only wingnut "truthers" believe Sony did this as a publicity stunt.) Here's the link, but remember to store your gray cells safely away before veiwing:

The Interview

Shoalanda

Merry Christmas 2014

Merry Christmas to all our readers. We hope you have love, peace, and joy this holiday. May you find the prize in the plum pudding and kiss the one you love under the mistletoe!


J. Redmon
Bailey Quarters
Cherry Pitts
Number 99
Shoalanda Speaks

Put a Little HASRA in Your Heart This Season!

Quick, Tell Shoalanda What You Want for Christmas!

It's easy to say "Bah, humbug!" It's also easy to have good intentions. It's extremely easy to be so overcome with holiday chores that we forget to do some of the smaller things.

Maybe you intended to give to the Salvation Army or some other organization, but simply forgot. Maybe you chose to support some other worthy organization, but let it slip by.

If this is you, you can still help a worthy cause right now. Most of us have PayPal accounts. If so, click to give to HASRA right now:

Donate to HASRA

Heart of Alabama Save Rescue & Adopt serves one of the Shoals' basic needs. Don't forget these little ones this season!



Shoalanda

'Tis the Season To Be Grumpy!

Get back, Grumpy Cat. Our readers are not happy either.

From a reader on Muscle Shoals football: Things changed a lot when Scott Basden came on the scene. He pretty well demands center stage and calls the shots. At one time, he sent out a letter to all of us that had reserved seating to inform us that he had doubled the price to $200.00 per seat. When we asked Wooten who authorized that (since the Board is supposed to set fees, etc). Basden his dumb old country bumpkin act and said he thought he was supposed to set the prices for those things since it was his "fundraiser". Things will never change with the people in place as it is now.

From an associate of the Sheffield Police: It appears that one of Sheffield PD's officers is on administrative leave pending possible domestic violence charges being filed.

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We've previously mentioned, in fact several times, how different charges are for the same crime depending upon the county, victim, etc. Yet, several studies have been done concerning the physical attractiveness of the alleged criminal.

At left is Jodey Wayne Waldrop of Franklin County who shook his infant son to death. While we have no sympathy for him, we don't believe he intended to kill the infant. He admitted his actions, apologized to his wife for the crime, was convicted of Capital Murder, and died in prison.

At right is Justin Matthew Green of Lauderdale County. Green's young daughter died from a cord being wrapped at least three times around her neck. Green placed the guilt on his partner's two older children and has not apologized, at least publicly. He's now charged with Manslaughter.

Two different counties...and two different looks. Does Green with his blond hair and blue eyes simply appear more innocent because of his baby face? It's something to think about.

Shoalanda

Local Nepotism in Government

If two or more relatives work in the same government system, is it nepotism? In a small school district or town, it could simply be there was no one else qualified for the job.

However, we know that some Muscle Shoals residents have accused the city of hiring unfit employees in order to placate/help current employees. Tuscumbia attorney Billy Underwood is currently representing two men, both master plumbers, who were overlooked for a person of much less experience to fill an inspector's position.

Here for your consideration are two reader comments:

* The music teacher at Trenholm is the superintendent's daughter-in-law.  The teacher's aide is a niece. (Note: the current Tuscumbia superintendent has recently resigned.)

Dr. Brian Lindsey

* After reading the reader's comments on cities and the MSCS superintendent.. Would anyone be surprised to know that the hiring of the MSCS superintendent violated state law which carries a fine and penalty? Yes, the board members found out about the law, and enforced it against family members they didn't want to promote or hire, but haven't fixed the real problem. Interesting that the superintendent is still in his job with everyone knowing they are in violation of the state law passed before they hired him. Nepotism in Muscle Shoals on steroids. No wonder the state legislators have to make laws - but somewhere in the passage of those laws, they will have to learn to be specific that it does pertain to Muscle Shoals.

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Meanwhile on a totally different subject in Lauderdale:

I WAS TOLD BY A LAUDERDALE COUNTY SHERIFFS DEPUTY THAT ONE OUT OF EVER 4 HOUSES IN LAUDERDALE COUNTY THERE IS SOME SORT OF METHANPHETAMINE ACTIVITY GOING ON IN IT-THIS WAS VERY EYE OPENING TO ME BUT I JUST THOUGHT THE PUBLIC OUGHT TO KNOW AND YOU MIGHT WANT TO READ UP ON THE DRUG & THE SIDE EFFECTS AND THE HAVOC IT CAN REEK ON YOUR FAMILY AS WELL AS YOUR COMMUNITY!

We wonder which deputy made this statement? The percentage seems extremely high, and we sincerely doubt it. If anyone has other info on this, please send it to us.

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A reader has questioned why trusties working outside a jail could be a liability. No matter how honest these people are, they can inflict unintentional damage and a city could be sued. Some years ago a prisoner in south Alabama was operating a push-type lawn mower when he inadvertently hit a rock. The rock then crashed through the windshield of a passing car. The system found its liability insurance covered only employees on the payroll. It was an expensive oops.

A second reader, a city employee, has told us Sheffield does use trusties around the jail. If there is any way this can be expanded, now is the time. Sheffield has the potential to raise itself out of a generations long slump.

If anyone knows of conditions in the Sheffield jail, please contact us. We know that money is a factor there as well, but we hope the city at least tries to maintain a safe and secure environment.



Shoalanda

Update on Justin Matthew Green

We have previously published two blogs on Justin Matthew Green: Links

As more information has been made available, we wish to clarify some points and make some further observations:

*  The deceased child, Arabella Claire Green was Justin Green's biological daughter. We've had some readers indicate this makes a difference. Really? He might have killed one of his partner's older two children, but not his own?

* We're not saying our search is definitive, but all accidental strangulation infant deaths we've seen mentioned are of the "hanging" variety. This could be remotely possible in this case if the cord which strangled Arabella was caught on her bed in some manner.

* Does anyone think a 13 month-old child left her crib, picked up this corded toy, then returned to her bed where she wrapped it around her neck at least three times, then managed to catch the cord on her bed?

* After reading the indictment, we assume the district attorney's office felt there wasn't enough evidence to try Green for Capital Murder and expect a conviction. Green's attorney would obviously argue the child's death was due to the actions of one her half-siblings, four and six at the time of her death. It could also be the grand jury simply didn't understand the almost total improbability of a death like this.

* Green is charged with Manslaughter. If his partner (or former partner--we don't know their relationship status) agrees, he almost certainly can plead to something much less.

* Green has at least two separate previous arrests that fall into the theft category. One occurred in 2006 and one in 2009. In other words, Green is a slow learner. We understand desperation, but he obviously had much worse problems. Yet his girlfriend apparently found him acceptable. Did the father of the two older children agree, or had he been fighting for custody? Had DHR already been involved?

* Since Green is out of jail on bond, if he has continued to live with Arabella's mother, she has almost certainly lost custody of her other two children to their father--assuming he wants them. If Green goes free, it may be a long battle for this young woman to reunite with her children.

* We would insert here that all young women should choose their life partners carefully, but why bother? After all love conquers all, right?



Shoalanda

Does Sheffield Get a Bum Rap?

Several Sheffield citizens have written us concerning various problems in the town of Sheffield. It would appear to boil down to lack of funds to make necessary repairs, etc. If you haven't driven down Montgomery Avenue recently, do so this holiday season. It may not be booming like Florence, but it could be on the way.

The important thing to remember is that you have a voice in how these new tax dollars are spent. Make yourself heard at future city council meetings.

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From a concerned Sheffield citizen:

During my daily commute I try to pay attention to my surroundings.  In Sheffield, there is something that I almost didn't notice:  The alleys.  Alleys serve a multitude of purposes. In most cases they allow easy access by property owners to the back areas of their properties, allow easy access by utility workers to power and telephone lines, allow emergency access to homes by fire department personnel, and allow local police patrols to maintain a watchful eye on properties normally hidden from cursory view.  Unless one lives in Sheffield where most of the city's alleyways are blocked with low-hanging limbs and overgrown shrubs, that is.

I, too, have noticed the number of street lights that are out, or totally missing, throughout the Sheffield.  My brother-in-law is a police officer in a small city like Sheffield.  I made mention of the street light issue to him over the phone the other night.  He informed me that in his department, on 'slow' nights, the enterprising officers make notes of the street lights that need replacing and submit a list to the local utility office each week.  Sounds like a great idea.

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Shoalanda

Welcome to...

Florence where men outnumber women three to two...at least on public boards. (Funny for the day: David Muhlendorf's LinkedIn page states that one of his specialties is "team building.")

Tuscumbia where they give new meaning to fruit basket turnover. If you think the school system losing two coaches and and a superintendent in a year's time is a bit much, just wait until 2015.

Rogersville where what you do stays in Rogersville. After all, the TimesDaily won't publish it.

Muscle Shoals where they make you feel like family....and give you a job if you really are.

Sheffield where the crime rate is much lower than the national average...of course they only answer 50% of the complaints.

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Some thoughts from readers:

* Sheffield needs a citizens' committee to explore WHY Sheffield's officers don't do proper patrols, don't monitor school zones during 'high traffic' times, don't conduct proper traffic control and don't investigate all crimes reported.

* I just finished watching the video of the 12-11-14 tourism meeting. I can only think of the late Fred Gywnn’s statement in “My Cousin Vinny” when watching Alex Nelson’s “performance” … Are you on drugs? Alex Nelson is a bully and I am embarrassed he has behaved so badly.  I’ve had some dealings with Ms. Wilson and Ms. Stanfield in the past and they have always been courteous and professional. To say they are an asset to our community is an understatement. Maybe Alex Nelson will find a lump of coal in his stocking; he is definitely being naughty.

* You most likely will hear that Sheffield LEOs are 'too busy' to focus on 'traffic control/traffic offenses'.  If so, that would raise these very important questions:  1) What's 'so important?  And, 2) If they are pursuing 'other crimes', why aren't these 'other crimes' being reported to the local news outlets? Hmmm.... Is 'crime' in Sheffield 'really THAT bad?'

* It's Walmart company policy to NOT sell firearms after 10PM.  However, they also will not sell pocket knives from the display case after 10PM, either, citing company policy. You can buy all of the pocket knives you want from displays on the main aisles, though.   BUT....get this:  Walmart WILL sell AMMUNITION from a locked display case after 10PM.  If you can figure out the logic in THIS one, please let me know.

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We had several who asked why the Muhlendorf family is selling Paper & Chemical Company. We have no inside information on this sale, but will hazard a guess that David Muhlendorf may wish to segue into retirement and that none of the Muhlendorf/Israel family wishes to take over the responsibility. That happens frequently in family companies of a certain age. Paper & Chemical was founded in 1949 by Mr. Samuel Israel, pictured at right.

Also, this will give David more time to devote to the Florence-Lauderdale Tourism Board. In fact, in future meetings, he might actually even find the impetus to mention the word "tourism."

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We'll have more on Sheffield and Muscle Shoals next week. Feel free to send any comments for publication. No profanity, vulgarity, or libelous statements, please.

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Shoalanda

Catching Up!/Readers Write

We're delaying Number 99's debut blog due to some other reports on local news which overlap. Rest assured, he will be here soon. Instead, we'll catch readers up on other fascinating events around the Shoals:

* David Muhlendorf has announced he's selling Paper & Chemical...at the company Christmas party no less. That must have been a fun event. Perhaps he will take the proceeds and use them to start a school on sensitivity training. (Do you know why Mr. Muhlendorf's aunt is famous? No bonus points for this--we just think it's neat. Sad that's she's no longer with us since she would make such a more competent board member than her nephew.)

* Angie Roberson, indicted for the theft of approximately 100K in Lauderdale County, reportedly turned herself into authorities last night after failing to show at both a preliminary hearing and her trial.

* Do you know what hacking is? We thought we did, but it seems that crime can also include authorized access to legal records for illegal or unauthorized purposes. Remember Harold Knighten in Lawrence County? He was a highly placed police officer who used legal computer systems to spy on those he didn't like. He was convicted of the crime, but is currently appealing with the help of his attorney Billy Underwood. Now we wonder just how many local authorities, both elected and appointed, are guilty of this illegal act?

* According to sources at the ABI, Angel Gieske is scheduled to be indicted in both Lauderdale and Colbert Counties during the next grand jury session. There's been no word from Limestone and Franklin Counties.

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Now some interesting comments from readers:

* The (Muscle Shoals) School System--these issues arise from the lack of transparency that has plagued the system for many years. MSCS spends millions on facilities but can't buy new text books for the students. MSCS spend millions on new athletic facilities but have teachers that cannot teach the courses for which they are hired. MSCS hires coaches and then hires their wives to teach causing a more qualified teacher to be terminated to make room. For the most part the administrators and teachers DO NOT have the best interest of the students in mind. It's how can they make the system appear to be better than the other systems in the area so to attract new residents into the city. If someone was to dig deep into the contracts and the books of the school system they would find just how bad the citizens of Muscle Shoals has taken. The recent hire of the new superintendent is a perfect example; he was not the most qualified yet he was still hired because of the pull his family has with the city and school. He may do a good job, but he definitely was not the most qualified person for the job.

* When my wife and her ex were in a custody battle over her 2 daughters, we had the extreme displeasure of having a court-appointed GAL. This GAL in question absolutely REFUSED to meet with the children being 'represented'. This particular GAL also NEVER consulted, interviewed, or otherwise made any contact with the parents or relatives of the 2 children being 'represented'. No wonder GALs have a bad reputation.

* Ever tried to get INTO or OUT OF Brooks High School before or immediately after school? It's miracle someone isn't killed on a daily basis. WHY aren't there traffic lights at the two entrances/exits of the school? They could be 'timed' to coincide with the school's beginning and closing each day.

* My **** was a majorette for three years at UNA. The band director not only knew about the weight limits and BMI's, he encouraged and enforced them. He also discourages band members and auxiliary line members from any extracurricular activities. He does this by threatening to withhold band scholarships. Many band kids that pass through my work place have shared these stories with me.

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We looked for a video of Irving Berlin singing the complete version of White Christmas, but found this instead. Enjoy:

Shoalanda

Angel Arrested, But DHR Marches On

Angel Morris Gieske was arrested in Walker County last July. As of today, possible charges are still pending in four other northwest Alabama counties. We have not yet been able to contact the Walker County District Attorney's office; however, when we do, we will publish her court dates.

Oddly enough, both DHR offices in Colbert and Lauderdale Counties, where Angel still faces possible charges, say that her false credentials identifying her as a PhD in counseling have no bearing on the outcome of cases in which she was consulted. You might want to read that last sentence again to be sure you understood correctly. That's right--no bearing. So what were they paying her for if her wonderful reports on various dysfunctional families had no impact on their final recommendations concerning child custody?

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A word about Guardians Ad Litem. We understand that losers in custody cases are often bitter. We once saw the family of Andrew Daniel Scott call the GAL in Hottie Scottie's case a washed up alcoholic. Just a little demented, weren't they?

Now a mother has written us chastising the GAL in her case as homosexual. We understand her pain in losing her children over what could be trumped up charges, but we have it on pretty good authority that one's sexual orientation doesn't affect one's ability to earn a JD, pass the bar, or practice in a fair and rational manner.

We will say that we have seen some attorneys, all heterosexual as far as we recall, whom we considered idiot savants. In other words, they barely had walking around sense. These attorneys are few and far between, and we greatly admire our legal eagle friends and associates.

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Kudos to Dr. Barry Morris! He's called out the Testy Tourism Three, and we salute him as our latest Local Hero. We do think he fibbed just a little. We're sure he knows who wants Debbie Wilson out of her job and why. The Slime-Bowl-O-Rama will undoubtedly continue.

We'll have more on this tomorrow with commentary from two others. One of these two is our newest blogging team member who has chosen to be called "Number 99." Shades of Patrick McGoohan...

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We once saw an Italian movie in which one of the major sub-plots was the continual threat of terrorism. Bombs exploded around the central characters with regularity. That could never happen in the U.S., could it? Certainly not in the Shoals.

Yet, it seems terrorism of some ilk has arrived. Carmike Cinemas won't be showing The Interview, at least not on its opening date as the movie megacorp had previously announced. We'll guess only a few of our readers would have chosen the screening of this film--at an outrageous ticket price---as their primary Christmas entertainment. The point is if you should want to do so, you can't.

Terrorism is here. Think about it. The decisions our leaders make may not be influenced by any of us in northwest Alabama, but on the other hand, we all have input. God help us all, we're thinking Harry S Truman made a very wise decision.

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Shoalanda

"What's Your BFP, Baby?"

Note: While Body Mass Index and Body Fat Percentage are very similar, UNA is using the BFP measurement rather than the more widely accepted BMI. Neither is a one size fits all.

So...to be an "auxillary" at UNA, you have to have a Body Fat Percentage (BFP) no greater than 21.9. If you're wondering what an auxiliary is, this general term seems to cover Lionettes, Color Guard, and Majorettes. We're not sure about Una.

There's no lawsuit yet, but an investigation was begun in August of this year. BFP isn't a be-all-end-all measurement of size; however, UNA Pride of Dixie Band Director Lloyd Jones has ordained that 21.9% body fat is the upper limit for these young ladies. He's stated that this is in no way unhealthy.

Most charts show healthy body fat for females as 21% to 24%. Our first comment is in the form of a question: How did Mr. Jones determine the 21.9% BFI? We could see a nice round number like 22%, but out of what hat did he pull the figure 21.9%? A quick Google doesn't show this as the ideal for young women, but again gives a range of several percent.

Now, our second question...and it's the one we want answered, although we don't expect it to be. Jones has stated he wants healthy and fit looking young women on the field. Okay, Mr. Jones, that sounds good, but wait a minute...

Just why didn't your policy include a minimum BFP for these young women? How about this young lady, Mr. Jones?

She won't take up much space on the bus for away games, but is she healthy? If you're really concerned about health, at least modify your policy to include a minimum BFP.

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Think the UNA BFP policy is a tempest in a trumpet? Here's what one young woman had to say about her experience as a UNA auxiliary:

“I knew of girls not showering and not drinking anything — water, juice — nothing on weigh-in days. Most of the people involved with auxiliary had rabbit food diets. I knew a girl who ate baby food because she could get the nutrients without as much bloat or extra weight.”

So what happens to girls who fail their weigh-in/measurement? No, they aren't thrown off the line, but they are benched until they return to the UNA ideal.

Should we be shocked? Probably not. Just think of that old advertising adage: Healthy Sells. Wait...the word wasn't healthy? Whoda thunk it?

*****

Shoalanda

Florence Tourism Board: Where Do Allegiances Lie?

It seems the Florence-Lauderdale Tourism Board has become a three against two proposition. Why and how? What do Alex Nelson, David Abramson, and David Muhlendorf have in common? Could it be a certain friend? It's possible.

Perhaps these three gentlemen have been misled by this friend or owe him in some way. There have been accusations of private meetings among these three members. We can be quite sure that the TimesDaily, for all its tunnel vision, takes that kind of behavior very seriously.

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If you've attempted to reach us on Facebook, only to be blocked for some reason, here's a personal page that you may use.

Shoalanda Hutton Speaks

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Hershel Dale Graham is reportedly now living in Florence--perhaps his father ran out of money for appeals and was no longer of use to him? He's pictured here at left as he exited his murder trial using a walker. At right he's pictured shopping in Walmart--wearing thong sandals, no less? Isn't he afraid of a fall since his balance is so precarious?

So far there's been no update on whether Graham will attempt any extraordinary appeal. Since we're told there is no more money available to him, we doubt that he will; however, it's looking like January before he will be forced to begin serving his sentence.

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Alternative Christmas music?





Shoalanda

Who Would Profit If Debbie Wilson Is Terminated?

Debbie Wilson is the current director of the Florence-Lauderdale Tourism Board. Her annual salary is around 75K. Her current assistant Alison Stanfield brings in 62K annually. Both nice incomes, but we're sure there are a lot of headaches that come with the job. Some may be named Alex, David, and David?

It seems Alex Nelson, David Abramson, and David Muhlendorf usually vote as a block, while Kelly Kelley and Kelly Gaputis vote the opposite. Since Alex Nelson has thrown down the gauntlet, if a vote concerning Miss Wilson's job did come to fruition, it might well be that she would be gone, gone, gone faster than Lefty's Frizzell's girlfriend of song fame.

So who would profit if Debbie did leave? Hmmmmm... Send us your ideas. We'll publish them. Rest assured, we believe we already know the answer to this question, but since we've recently heard Alex Nelson called a "walking lawsuit," we have no wish to be one.

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Reporting on local arrests:

TimesDaily - Doesn't usually report on misdemeanor arrests unless it involves UNA football players. In other words local business leaders aren't named in misdemeanor charges related to liquor, but the football players always are.

Quad-Cities Daily - Reports all obtainable arrests complete with mug shots.

Pen-N-Sword - Reports detailed info on heinous offenses, arrests involving repeat offenders, and occasionally charges against citizens of note be they football players or local business persons.

Shoalanda Speaks - Offers commentary on the worst of the worst or the rare(?) instances of unfair treatment--see UNA football player arrests.

Perhaps that clears up some false assumptions.

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Shoalanda

Supporting Debbie Wilson/Comparing Thugs

Yesterday we looked at a video of Thursday's Florence-Lauderdale Tourism Board. Think the Three Stooges without the humor. Think harassment. Plenty of harassment. Alex Nelson not only threatened Debbie Wilson's job twice, he called her the name of a certain shady lady. Wow!

We've looked at it. Now you take a peek--keep the barf bag handy:

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Some have asked about D.K. He no longer blogs with us, but we continue to support the wonderful work he does. We are about to present a real treat for you very soon. An accomplished political blogger will be joining us. His emphasis will be on Florence politics, but he will also blog on business/political interests in the entire Shoals area. He hasn't chosen a screen name yet, but we can promise you he will be worth waiting for.

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Some time ago two friends asked if we could rate Shoals criminals. We thought about it and decided the only way it could be done was to eliminate the murderers. Isn't one murder a million times worse than 50 home burglaries? How do you rate a man who shoots dead two women...and a dog? How do you compare a man who beats his step-son, rapes his two step-daughters, then kills one of them? It can't be done.

So if we eliminate the murderers? Everything is still subjective. We have a friend who knows the families of both Andrew Daniel Scott and John Wesley Akin. It's hard for her to read about them, especially in a "non-news" source. In other words we comment on the wake of crimes--something journalistic endeavors don't do. No, the TD won't tell you about the man who lost thousands of dollars when his car was stolen and he's so far received zero compensation. You won't read in newspapers about the families of those who died from supposedly tainted heroin...or the parents of a child they feel is threatened by a local druggie whose family just feels is misunderstood.

A local publication recently compared Quittney Nichols to Scott, Akin, and Jerry Don Crowden. We're sure it was done in jest, but there is a comparison. We usually refer to Nichols as Lil Quittney since that's how our friend Bubba wrote about her. In truth she's now 29 and has spent the majority of the last ten years in lock up. Aside from one attempted murder charge, most of her arrests have been of a less than dramatic nature. She needs help, but how do you get it for her?

The three guys? We're hoping that now Akin has been off drugs while in Limestone Prison he will never return to them. We're sure his family does also. He still faces a very serious heroin trafficking charge in Lauderdale County, but after that is adjudicated, he can enter DOC drug rehab.

Jerry Don Crowden? He's serving 20 years at the maximum security Holman Prison for six crimes, among them escape. He won't even be eligible for parole until 2020 (barring someone's intervention). Crowden is quite different from Akin and Scott. He may do drugs, but it was just sheer thug life that sent him south. He's not of the intelligentsia and he seemingly likes a life of crime--it's so easy, right? No...no hope for him, but we're sure at least some of his family still hopes. He's a sociopath, if you believe those exist, and we do.

That brings us to Andrew Daniel Scott, now 25. He's not as intelligent as Akin, but is much more so than Crowden. He may be addicted to drugs, but he's also a sociopath. The State of Alabama has paid thousands of dollars to send Scott through a six-month drug program, but on December 3rd, he was arrested on four new charges while serving in community corrections and will be returned to prison. If Judge Self should choose to add to Scott's sentence, he may do so. Not a rosy future there.

Thanks to the Quad-Cities Daily, from whom we shamelessly stole Scott's latest mug shot. Visit them every day for new local mug shots!

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For discerning women:

Shoalanda

Florence Tourism/Muscle Shoals Matters

Two friends have sent us the last Florence Tourism Board meeting video now posted on YouTube. We will be viewing it and commenting later. We have learned that Debbie Wilson is Shoalanda #97.

Note: We have remarkably few comments about problems in Florence, and we're happy to be able to say that. Most municipal complaints we receive come from Muscle Shoals. Problems with law enforcement come from the Lauderdale Sheriff's Department and the Russellville Police Department. We are 99.99% sure that once Rick Singleton takes office in January the Lauderdale complaints will greatly diminish. We have few hopes for the city of Russellville.

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The City of Muscle Shoals? We can think of only three issues that we here have initiated: Zaxby's, Cypress Lakes, and Muscle Shoals Police (two separate events). All other issues have been sent to us and we have published them. We have initiated no issues on Muscle Shoals schools ourselves, but we have received much e-mail on the subject of both the exorbitant spending related to the football program and to the suspension of a young lady for her dyed red hair.

We see that some who don't know us like to comment that we are picking on this school. No, we are picking on an unfair policy administered in an even more unfair manner. How can a school which harbors unnaturally dyed matrons and jocks with facial hair that looks like a desert tumbleweed (and that's putting it kindly) even dare to comment on this young lady's hair?

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There once were two local educators.

Kids thought 'em more scary than gators.

To distract any attention

They served Hayleigh detention.

Don't they deserve some rotten tomators?

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A reader asked how to cure the problems of title loan businesses in Muscle Shoals. We have no idea, but we hear that Loretto also has one. 

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We will soon be addressing the remainder of the Muscle Shoals issues forwarded to us, ethics question #4 on volunteer fire departments, and more reader comments on the city of Sheffield (these come from Sheffield residents).

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Sorry there's no real video here, but we had a request:





Shoalanda

Keller ER?/Numerologist

From a reader:

I had the displeasure of visiting the ER the other evening.  Not just any ER, mind you.  After hearing so much praise over the years regarding Helen Keller Hospital, I was shocked at the condition of its Emergency Room waiting area.  The floor was filthy, being covered with tracked-in mud, empty drink bottles, and used band aids.  Objects are 'secured' to the walls by paperclips being stuck into the drywall itself (They can't afford thumbtacks?).  Signs designating specific areas were damaged or missing.  The remnants of a no longer working(?) phone currently hangs on the wall.  I had the impression that I was visiting an ER in a third-world country.

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We see one Billy R. Smith has an interesting ad in the TimesDaily. He states that he can make you a winner at horses and dogs. If he's so lucky, or as he implies educated, concerning these betting pursuits, why does he have to charge to teach others.



Shoalanda

Manslaughter in Chris Martin Trial: Right Verdict?

Campbell's Madison County Mug Shot

We haven't commented on the Chris Martin trial until now. The verdict came in today, and Chris has been found guilty of manslaughter. We feel this is the right verdict. Why?

Chris shot Campbell six times--that's a lot. We feel safe to state that Chris was also drinking and his thought processes were not what they should have been.

Why wasn't it murder? Grant Campbell had a .26 BAC reading. He may also have had other drugs in his system--he was awaiting trial in Madison County on three serious drug charges. Could he also have had some prescription drugs in his system that didn't mix well with alcohol? It's entirely possible. News reports indicated that Campbell had been dishonorably discharged from the military for theft. There were also numerous reports that he had been diagnosed with a "thought disorder" involving women. You'll notice that there were three couples at the party that night, but Campbell was alone.

We're sure the jury took all this into consideration. Since Martin used a gun, he faces a possible 20 year sentence.

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We notice Tom Smith of the TimesDaily has done his usual story on Hershel Graham--three witnesses said David Andrasik pushed Graham. Since all three of these witnesses were related to Graham, why doesn't Smith report that three other witnesses (one a Red Bay teacher who was just passing by) not related to the rotund retired wrestler stated that David was called back when he attempted to leave and that Graham's use of a gun was totally unprovoked?

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We wish to thank a Sheffield Utilities employee for responding to comments from a Sheffield reader. If any Sheffield customers witness non-functioning street lights, please call 256-389-2000, then select Engineering & Operations to report the problem.

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We recently linked a news report on the newest arrest for Quittney Nichols. One of our readers suggested she start a band called Quittney & the Repeaters. They could book UNA frat parties and football games.

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A reader also asked about the geographic locations of our current blogging team. We have four bloggers: three who live in Lauderdale County and one who lives in Colbert. We welcome comments from Colbert, Franklin, and other surrounding areas.



Shoalanda

Kevin Davis/A Few Words About Sheffield

Who is Kevin Davis? From his online bio at Muscle Shoals High School where he currently serves as assistant principal:

Education
Rogers High School Academic Diploma 1998
University of North Alabama B.S. Sociology/Marketing/Geography 2002
University of North Alabama B.S. Education 2005
University of North Alabama M.A. Education/Instructional Leadership 2010

Experience
Lawrence County Schools TN-Teacher/Coach 2005-2006  
Limestone County Schools-Teacher/Coach 2006-2007
Lauderdale County Schools-Teacher/Coach 2007-2012
Limestone County Schools-Assistant Principal/Athletic Director 2012-2014
Muscle Shoals City Schools-Assistant Principal 2014-Present

I am married to Amanda Davis who is a Kindergarten Teacher at Underwood Elementary School. We have two children, Grace 15 and Shelton 10. I enjoy hunting, fishing, Alabama Football, and all sports in general. I also raise boxer dogs.

You will note that Mr. Davis was employed at "Limestone County Schools" from 2012 until 2014. In fact, Mr. Davis worked at Clements High School in Western Limestone County. In late February of this year the annual audit of school finances was conducted, and at the conclusion of that standard audit, Mr. Davis was placed on paid administrative leave. According to Limestone Superintendent Tom Sisk, a more detailed forensic audit was then initiated.

Davis then accepted the position of assistant principal of Muscle Shoals High when it became vacant due to Chad Holden's promotion to principal. At that time, Davis' employment in Limestone County was officially terminated, but the investigation continued. According to the office of Zebra Green, human resources director of Limestone County schools, the forensic audit has not yet been completed. When it is finished and signed off on by the board, an official statement will be published.

Note: A highly placed source states that Mr. Davis' references were not checked before he was hired. This source does not wish his/her name to be used; therefore, you may feel free to accept this last comment or disregard it.

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Above is a photo of Kevin Davis. We have to ask about the Muscle Shoals school system's policy on scary beards? We're serious--a family of Vietnamese could live in there...

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From a reader:

How many street lights (all over town) have to be out before the Sheffield Utility Dept. puts in new bulbs or replaces missing units (O'Neal Bridge).

Why do Sheffield drivers think that 'just because a street is WIDE ENOUGH for 2 vehicles', it's OK to do so? I'm referring specifically to sections of 6th St, Hatch Blvd. (between Darby and Old Jackson Hwy), and S. Montgomery Ave. at the railroad tracks.

Do Sheffield LEOs 'know how' to write traffic citations?  They seemingly avoid doing so, as is evidenced by the manner in which Sheffield drivers behave.

Why isn't the Sheffield city ordinance against 'unkempt property' enforced?  

Why are Sheffield city employees permitted to 'text and drive' when operating municipal vehicles?

Why doesn't Colbert County EMA 'test' the tornado sirens regularly?  How hard can it be to do so?  The one in my neighborhood has been reported several times for failing to activate during a Tornado Warning.

Sheffield needs a citizens' committee to explore WHY Sheffield's officers don't do proper patrols, don't monitor school zones during 'high traffic' times, don't conduct proper traffic control and don't investigate all crimes reported.

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So much for the seriousness of life, how about some of the happiness:





Shoalanda

"If You're Hot Stuff Why Are You in the Shoals?"

The above was asked us, albeit in some different wording. Isn't it sad that anyone with any intelligence, work ethic, etc. leaves the Shoals. No, not all do!

In fact, 25% of Florence residents have a bachelor's degree. About 12% have some post bachelor's work. Yet many do leave the area for better jobs. Let's try to change that, shall we?

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Scoop neck? Here's one:

Here's another one:

That's why all scoop neck tops are banned in most schools.

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A good friend of ours has volunteered to work with schools to measure these variable garments if needed. We didn't know he would dare be so naughty this close to Christmas.

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We've had umpteen readers with reports on Muscle Shoals Schools/educators/coaches/etc. We will need time to sift through these missives and confirm some things before we publish. It may be next week, so if we had earlier promised a rapid posting, many apologies.

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Senior Angel Trees? Try Martin Department Store and Curves. Let's make sure no one is left out this holiday!

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Hershel Dale Graham has been denied any further appeals in the state. As we understand it, if he wishes to take it further, it will require new attorneys who are licensed in that area. We have not heard Graham's response, but we would not be at all saddened to learn he had to report to prison before the holiday.

Considering Franklin County Judge Terry Dempsey's record in this case, we infer he will not insist Graham report until after New Year's. Sadly, the family of David Andrasik will never share another Christmas with him.

Shoalanda

Sorority of Shoalandas?/Tuscumbia Petition

A friend suggested that all those who have been "accused" of being Shoalanda should form a sorority. I know of about 10 who have been named--none correctly. I do feel for them...

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If you have any input for our Tuscumbia street project, please send it as soon as possible. We will draft a petition that can be downloaded. It will mention each problem sent to us, have a space for citizens (read: voters) to sign, and also a place for the sender's district number. These can then be mailed or hand delivered.

Be sure to let us know what response, if any, you receive.

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Question from a reader: Should school personnel of various ilk be held to the same standards as students? We're going to answer it would depend.

For instance, we understand why a "scoop neck" top might be banned since there are various scoop levels. Who wants the pleasure of having to measure just how far the scoop is above certain female assets?

How about "Goth" hair? It doesn't look natural, does it? At least on a Caucasian. Tell us what you think.

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Both these women dye their hair jet black. Does it look natural? One is a top dollar stripper and one is an educator. Who knew they had so much in common?

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There's been much in the news about Mick Jagger's visit to the Shoals in the last millennium. So here's an interesting tidbit about Sir Mick.

It seems that when he was suggested for a knighthood, the royal family refused as long as possible due to Jagger's complicity in providing a very vulnerable Princess Margaret with drugs. When it could no longer be put off, the Queen decided to have her elective knee surgery the week of the ceremony, leaving Prince Charles to do the honors. We like the Queen.

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Shoalanda

The Mystery of the Muscle Shoals Press Box/Local Justice?

Segregated?

Two days ago our blog mentioned the press box at Muscle Shoals High School. For some time we had heard some odd things about how things worked in the press box there, so we asked a reader to comment. His comments didn’t pertain exactly to the intent of our query, but they were well worth publishing. Note to those who disagree with anything published here: If you look closely at punctuation, spacing, font color, etc., you can determine which words are ours and which words come from readers. Your comments are always welcome in rebuttal.

One reader in particular was extremely articulate; however, he also was in error. We made no ad hominem attack on him. Pointing out that we were not guilty of slander even if we had been guilty of libel is not an ad hominem attack.

Examples of an ad hominem attack:

What do you know, you didn’t graduate from Harvard.

Why should I believe you; your mother is Russian​.

No one should listen to you since you were raised on the wrong side of the tracks.

Believe a Pastaferian? No way!

Now, for this misguided young man’s second concern: How are we investigating reports of some possibly odd goings on at Muscle Shoals ball games? He will be glad to know that a friend has informed us that press for opposing teams are banned from the press box, not by Muscle Shoals High School, but by ComCast Cable which broadcasts the games. (You see how that works, B? Our readers who asked now know that it's not a school edict--complete exoneration.)

Can they do this? Sure...unless you know something we don’t. The Muscle Shoals School Board has signed a contract with the cable company, and we’re sure they’re required to abide by any rules that ComCast deems necessary for whatever reasons.

What about Deshler, Sheffield, Florence, etc., sportscasters having to sit outside in the cold? We suggest that Deshler and Florence negotiate their own contracts with ComCast and make Muscle Shoals press sit outside in the cold when visiting. Sheffield? Uh, no, you just may be forced to have the cheerleaders print derisive banners to wave at football games in Muscle Shoals. (Since we have to ‘splain these comments to some readers, that was directed at the quality of the football team and in no way related to race, sex, or ice cream flavor preference.)

Now a word to all students: If you don’t want to learn, just drop out. If you do want to improve yourself and get a better job when the time comes, we suggest you learn as much as you can and present yourself in your best light. Think others don’t notice? Think again. Your best friend may think your vulgar comments are funny, the clerk at the corner market may think you’re cute when you misuse and mispronounce words, but the human resource manager? He/She will hardly be able to wait until you leave the office to toss your application...and snicker as it falls into file 13.

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This man shot his victim, 30 years his junior who had hit him with a rebar, and was given a sentence of 20 years in prison--where he's been sitting for the past seven years.

This man, who with three family members at his side shot his victim, a man who had no weapon and who had been called back onto his property, was sentenced to two years in prison. Three years after his victim's death, he's done no prison time.

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Both men committed a crime--the crime of manslaughter according to the courts. Both used a gun to shoot their victims and could have been sentenced to a maximum of 20 years. Yet only Neler Keeton who had no criminal record received the maximum. Hershel Graham who had as a teenager shot and wounded his stepfather received only two years to serve.

What's wrong with this picture?

Shoalanda