Another Negative Take on Muscle Shoals School Tax

The upcoming school tax referendum has certainly provoked some interesting comments. As has always been our policy, we will be happy to publish both pros and cons; however, we have not as yet received any comments in favor of the tax. We did hear from the Muscle Shoals resident who's an editor at a site not associated with us, and he will be voting "No." 

That brings us to yesterday's blog written by Leslie M. Shoals. Leslie wrote for us for some time before we asked the writer to choose a name (it keeps down confusion). When the writer failed to choose a name, we suggested "Leslie M. Shoals" in part since Leslie could be male or female. We have always endeavored to refrain from identifying Leslie's gender.

Now a Muscle Shoals school admin has stated on his FB page that Leslie is female, calling the writer a constant critic of both the school system and the city council. It would seem that someone realizes he made an enemy at some point and possibly feels guilty about it? We all make mistakes, and the easiest way to correct them is to apologize for our behavior. No child, whether in Leslie's family or not, should be mistreated by school admins. Just our opinion...

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From another Muscle Shoals resident:


To help enlighten voters about some facts not being discussed:

Per the news article published in the Times Daily on May 8, 2013:

In January, the school district began construction on a $5.9 million center for technology adjacent to Muscle Shoals High School. The school district is using $2.9 million from the bond and $3 million of its capital reserves to fund that project.

So, let’s do the math:

$10,000,000 bond issue

$2,900,000 portion of bond used for Center for Technology

$7,100,000 was spent on the Athletic facility, football field turf, and stadium upgrades.

The city kicks in $1.3 million to help with the bond issues for high school and this $10 million bond for Career Academy and Athletics Facility, field and stadium upgrades.

Give Us MORE:

The city is paying an additional $200,000.00 each year toward the 10 million dollar bond issue which means the city is paying roughly 4 million of the 10 million from taxpayers money. Let that sink in!

There’s 3 things you’ll notice never gets mention:

#1: The money (tax payer money) they get from the city already.

#2: How much the current tax has generated in the last 8 years. 2010 was $2.1 million. 2017 over $4.1 million. Most of that increase started on 2013-2014 due to the housing market really exploding and it continues to grow.

#3: That the new appraisals are estimated to bring in over an additional $1 million. Don’t miss this!! The school will get the money they are asking for off of the increased appraisals and the homes that are continuing to be built. The tax will do nothing but dip twice. The tax not passing will not foreclose the Muscle Shoals Schools as they are trying to act like it will.

These three things they do not and will not discuss. They know it points to a lack of planning and management. This is what people need to see and understand over and over and over. Money IS NOT THE ISSUE!

Remember: Property taxes are voted on every 30 years. So if this passes it’s good till 2048. Or until they come asking for more...

An Addendum to the Midnight Rider's Take on Muscle Shoals

Yesterday we published a blog by the Midnight Rider in which he mentioned various problems/situations in Muscle Shoals. Leslie M. Shoals has now sent us an extremely interesting take on much of what the Midnight Rider said.

MR: The Police provide Traffic Control at “one certain church.”

LMS: YES - Why don't they set up cones on the Wilson Dam far right northbound lane and let those worshipers leave the church by turning right out of the drive? INSTEAD - there are 6 lanes of traffic held up. At least this is what cities do that don't have a mayor and 4 city councilmen attending the church in question. Who pays the bill when a motorist has an accident as a result? Obviously the CITY since they have assumed the liability by having their vehicles out there and the officers are in MSC uniforms. THINK PEOPLE.

MR: “Common People” are not allowed to walk at the New, Improved, Updated Muscle Shoals School Stadium.

LMS: YES - You know Coach Lindsey said Insurance regulations. THINK PEOPLE - Playgrounds at the schools are not fenced and locked down. What if a child dangling from the monkey bars falls and breaks a neck - forever a paraplegic? YES - YOU the taxpayer WILL pay since Coach Lindsey said MSCS is liable for the safety of anyone on the school's properties. The 10 million+ facility is only for those who will bow down to the hierarchy. ALTHOUGH, a child's birthday party was held in the athletic facility as well as photographic sessions held there as well for individuals. It's all in the faMily

MR: Job exchange and run- ins with the law. 

LMS: YES and YES. And promote a principal to the central office - a secretarial position. He will now be working with the old girlfriend who was demoted/punished/moved to the same building with the scorned wife. LOVELY plan Coach Lindsey. That should be a formula for a new height in "cat fights". Now the younger children will get an eye full. They are the ones that will suffer in this.

BUSINESS AS USUAL IN MSC AND MSCS.

MR: It’s election time people, make your vote count.

LMS: WHAT ABOUT TERRY McMINN, selected by the City Council to fill the late Jim Holland's seat on the city council.

Times Daily / March 22, 2016:

MUSCLE SHOALS — Muscle Shoals resident Terry McMinn was selected by the City Council to fill the Place 4 council seat. McMinn will serve the remainder of Jim Holland’s term. Holland died Feb. 19 after serving nearly 24 years on the City Council. He was 82. Councilman Joe Pampinto nominated McMinn for the position and said it would be fitting to have McMinn complete Holland’s term because the men are both “of the same temperament, honest, good.”

The council had 60 days from Holland’s death to fill the seat or that responsibility would have fallen to the governor.McMinn will serve until the current term ends Nov. 6

Pampinto said McMinn does not plan to run for a full council term.

That was important to Muscle Shoals Mayor David Bradford.“I didn’t want it to appear we are backing anyone,” he said. “I’m glad we found some who is willing to fill the term and not run.”

Municipal elections are Aug. 23. Qualifying for municipal elections begins July 5.

The City Council did not receive applications or resumes or conduct interviews to fill the seat, and no other nominations were made.

“If there had been a year or longer remaining in the term we probably would have received resumes or had a special election,” Council President Allen Noles said.

TERRY McMINN agreed to those terms 3 1/2 months ago but quickly changed his mind to qualify for Place 1 on the MS City Council last week.

IS THIS WHAT WE CAN EXPECT FROM HIM TOO? He fits right in with the others up there - Lies and Smoke and Mirror politics.

BTW - the vote was unanimous for McMinn based on that agreement

Leslie M. Shoals

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Leslie has indeed made an interesting point concerning Terry McMinn. If Mr. McMinn would contact us before our endorsements, we'll be happy to publish a rebuttal to this information indicating nefarious and misleading behavior on his part.

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Did you ever think life isn't fair? A single man has only six hookers, but a married man has nine. Go figure. 

We'll be blogging on the differences, similarities, and possible connections of the Dillard and Tipper cases. Stay tuned...

Lies, Mr. Principal? Please Point One Out

We currently have three bloggers from Colbert County, two of whom live in Muscle Shoals. Yes, all our bloggers use screen names. We see that a local police chief thinks a name should carry the influence, or at least more weight than the facts. We feel even John Dillinger or Al Calpone may have had some good points to make; therefore, we don't ask for a background check before publishing one's blog or guest editorial. 

Since the suspension and subsequent termination of Blake Jarmon, we've received copious communications about the Muscle Shoals School System. It's hardly the first time the system has been in the news, but this it the most irate we've seen parents and citizens. We give everyone a voice here, and if any Muscle Shoals school employee has comments, we will be happy to publish them.

The principal has written on his Facebook page that someone, and we assume he means Leslie M. Shoals, has lied about something in various recent blogs. We attempt to make sure that every blog we post is vetted and correct in each fact. If anyone knows of any errors or misconceptions, please let us know. It's easy to say "lies," but if you don't point them out to us, we have no idea what they are and are certainly not able to correct them.

While we don't know this Muscle Shoals employee personally, we do know the blogger who uses the name "Leslie M. Shoals." In the hierarchy of state government/position, Leslie holds a much more respected place than this principal. It might be easy to criticize Leslie's flamboyant style of fonts and punctuation, but we suggest interested readers examine the facts instead. 

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We've had several comments about the TimesDaily recently. No, the local newspaper is not owned by the New York Times. Since the Shelton family published the TD in 2009, news has become more local...and more bland.

It may have hit a new low recently when it published a short blurb about Trivia Night at On the Rocks, a local bar. On the Rocks isn't the only bar/grill to have a regular trivia night, and we're unsure why that particular establishment received any preferential treatment. A new form of advertising?

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Speaking of alcohol consumption, we understand one of two local craft beer manufacturers is leaving Florence. We have not been able to determine which, so if readers have any insight, let us know. There has to be an interesting story behind the move.

Oops--Limestone County Coaches at It Again!

Last week, a Limestone County coach was arrested:

Trey Alton Stinson

Our friend Leslie M. Shoals feels that Limestone's loss could be Muscle Shoals' gain.

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Coach Trey Stinson

Limestone County Superintendent Tom Sisk told AL.com that the school district learned of the alleged relationship Friday and responded immediately. "(Human Resources) was on campus dealing with the matter within 30 minutes," Sisk said. He also issued this statement:

"The Limestone County Board of Education has placed an employee at East Limestone High School on administrative leave with pay until further notice pending an investigation. It is the practice of the Limestone County Board of Education to remove any employee that has been accused of wrong doing in order to complete this investigation. This is to protect both the employee and any other individual(s) that may be involved. We are working diligently to handle this matter in a thorough yet timely manner as we work toward a resolution."

Superintendent Tom Sisk handled the matter quickly and took control of the situation as evidence in the statement "...LIMESTONE COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION has placed an employee on leave..."
The superintendent in Limestone County should share his guide to leadership with MSCS superintendent, Coach Lindsey. Coach Lindsey only need ask the athletic director what to do in a similar situation, not the Muscle Shoals City School Board.

Perhaps with the recent news that Coach Basden is losing his offense coordinator Coach Smothers to Athens City, Coach Stinson might want to apply at MSHS. Muscle Shoals doesn't have a filter on hiring as long as you are a coach, mean, tough and know how to man handle women.

I would not suggest Coach Stinson apply for the defensive coordinator position as the infamous wife beater and adulterer, Coach Balentine has not been fired, but insiders say he is sitting in an office and gym while he collects his pay. Way to go MSCS. Taxpayers on the hook again. Wonder if his pay was reduced to an aide's pay scale or whatever his walking around papers say he is capable of doing.

Coach Lindsey may want to step back and assess the personal interactions inside the faMily, given more insider reports of inappropriate relationships between employees. There appears to be a huge lack of institutional control with no unified effort to demand high morals, integrity, leadership and educational opportunities for the students.

Is this the kind of role models you want for your child? Would you want YOUR son to aspire to be Chris Balentine, or your daughter to be the "other woman" or the victim of abuse because they see teachers and guidance counselors doing it?

It would be nice to have transparency concerning pay, teaching & coaching assignments, and the resolution of Balentine's court appointed pre-trial diversion program. Did Balentine get help with his drinking problem and the physical abuse conviction? Has that case been resolved?

Moral Turpitude is a grave offense, punishable in several ways, including loss of job and certifications in the Alabama Education system.

Why is Balentine still on the MSCS payroll?


Leslie M. Shoals

City Employees Costing Us Money

We're sure there's not a city or town in the U.S. that doesn't have at least one employee who abuses his or her position. Here's another great article from Leslie M. Shoals on what's happening in one local town:

Rusty Wheeles knowingly has broken the law according to Mayor Bradford's statements in Times Daily.

What David Bradford didn't explain that would be nice to know is WHAT EXACTLY CONSTITUTES 21 DAYS OF A SUSPENSION?

Is this 21 WORKING DAYS - which is reasonable and logical. And, does he turn in the vehicle that he uses for work and PERSONAL use as well?

Does Wheeles pay for his golf games with his family and friends at Cypress Lakes, or is this yet another liberty a city employee thinks he deserves at the expense of the taxpayers?

Citizens of Muscle Shoals deserve to know the full details and Wheeles use of a city vehicle, period.

In all fairness, I have to point out that Rusty Wheeles is not the only city employee that is costing the taxpayers a lot of money using city vehicles as their own personal transportation.

Another Park & Rec employee has been seen on several occasions taking her child to a medical office in Sheffield, not only during the work day - but IN A PARK & RECREATION DEPARTMENT FORD TRUCK. In fact, there is such a culture of no rules and no accountability, that the employees have no shame as they drive vehicles with the city emblem on them as they travel through Muscle Shoals into Sheffield and with children in the vehicles as well.

IF there were an accident in a neighboring city with the employee on PERSONAL errands, how would the city insurance carrier respond to that? Far be it for there to be an accident resulting in a death. MSC taxpayers would be paying on that for a long time.

This must be the norm in this run-a-way government, Muscle Shoals Pandora Soaps.

A picture is worth a thousand words as the City Truck sits at the medical office for how long????

MAYOR - CITY COUNCIL  - exactly who are you serving? Do any of you have any experience in anything other than flying to all those out of state meetings you carry your families to? And, of course, that's at our cost too.

It's obvious none of you know how to govern.

IS THERE ANYONE IN MSC GOVERNMENT THAT HAS THE WEEBLES TO DO WHAT IS RIGHT?

From where I sit - I don't see that happening any time soon... All I see are Men without the important parts that define a male.

Leslie M. Shoals

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We have found only a short death notice for Theresa Milam. For those who have asked, here it is:

Theresa Ann Cunningham Milam, 57, died Sunday, April 9, 2017. Visitation will be noon-1 p.m. Saturday at Spry-Williams Funeral Home, Florence. The memorial service will be 1 p.m. Saturday at the funeral home chapel. She was the wife of the late Gary William Milam.

What Parents Refuse to See About the Muscle Shoals Baseball Players

First, a word from Leslie M. Shoals:

Fowler Suspended for Season

Surprised?

One would have to ask "Why punish these kids for getting caught in Destin for doing what they are allowed to do in MSC?"

I remember a "surprise" drug dog brought in to MSHS one day, Only problem was that all the athletes that were drivers checked out before the "sweep". The administrators were so proud only a couple of under-freshmen were identified and "dealt with".

Surprised?

For those who believe the stories of grand test scores and graduation rates MSCS publish, you need to read the children's story, The Pied Piper, or the Emperor's New Clothes.

A senior that misses over 30 days in one semester with a failing grade miraculously aces a final exam and graduates?

Another senior stays in ISS most of the first semester, is failing and miraculously has all the credits when he turns 18 and is told he will get his diploma in the mail. No need to come back after Christmas break?

Employees having affairs, and then promoting one to the central office? Who believed Coach Lindsey when he said the principal had "administrative tenure"? There is no such thing - read the law.

Coaches recruiting - yes, another year ahead. Solution, lobby AHSAA to change the rules.

Teachers that can't teach - yep - math isn't that important in life after all.

Girls trying to out dress the teachers - after all, it's all about style.

Students know and are laughing at the teachers and administrators. Do they really think the kids don't know what they are doing? Nice, people. You're really preparing these kids. But, for what? They sure won't be real contenders for success in the REAL world.

Coach Lindsey trying to get the County Commissioners to raise taxes behind your back?

OH - You didn't know this? 

Better keep watch on this one too. Does Coach need more money for recruiting and getting that coveted state championship since that is the number one goal of MSCS.

MoneySexCorruptionSports

Leslie M. Shoals

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Some personal observations about the suspended Muscle Shoals players:

1. These players didn't just break team rules, they broke the law. If law enforcement had found them, they would have been arrested. Those who were 18 would have had their photo and name published.

2. A curfew of 1:00 a.m. for 16-18 year-olds is entirely too late. (We will happily publish comments from those who disagree.)

2. The suspended players are blaming the school for also suspending Coach Josh Fowler. It's not the school's fault, young men. It's mainly your fault (and Fowler's if he knew), and you should learn to take responsibility for your actions.

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We'll update our previous post that those suspended were: 

Two freshmen
One sophomore
One junior
Five seniors

Is there anyone left on the team? We hear that junior varsity has been recruited. Does this not place undue pressure on them? Just a thought...

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Please remember that we do not publish comments with profanity. To the person who wrote the comment on the UNA blog, please rewrite it, and we'll happily publish it.

Gun Control? Thermostat Control? Moral Control?

First, from Jay Redmon:

As a former educator, school shootings always hit me hard. However, while I grieve each one, I don't allow my emotions to get the best of my common sense.

Gun control measures DON'T WORK. If they did, countries that have harsh controls over firearms access wouldn't have ANY murders. Most politicians always promote gun control as a means of totally eliminating violent crime. Most such politicians live in a fantasy land devoid of personal responsibilities.

Now, speaking as a former law enforcement officer trained in Active Shooter Response, I'm a firm supporter of arming teachers. I'm not advocating arming ALL teachers, but the ones that are willing to undergo the extensive and intensive training should be afforded that option.

Teachers have been, and always will be, the TRUE First Responders to school tragedies. They need to be given the TOOLS to respond appropriately.

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SWEAT?

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From Leslie M. Shoals:

There was a Valentine dance at the (Muscle Shoals) middle school over the weekend.

Principal Kevin Davis used the opportunity for a teachable moment. 

Yes, he sad he would teach Shoalanda and the parents a lesson by cranking up the heat so high on the children that it was unbearable.

Bullies will always bully, even against innocent children.

Bless the children and old people who can't defend themselves, for there are those who walk among us that are cowardly bullies who take their anger issues out on the innocent.

School Board - there are none so blind as they who will not see - or listen to the truth.

Leslie M. Shoals

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A word about Bryan Robinson: 

Not all who use and abuse others do so at the point of a gun like Blake Austin Hines. Some set others up to take the fall for them. Some take the money and leave others holding the bag of seemingly illegal activities, destroying careers in their need to accumulate illegal wealth. 

Tomorrow we'll update our readers on Bryan Robinson's alleged house flipping scheme. It won't be a pleasant read.

The Money Pit Deepens at Cypress Lakes

Yesterday we looked at a proposed Florence tennis court complex; today we'll look at something worse, something that is already a reality.

From Leslie M. Shoals:

http://www.timesdaily.com/news/local/city-committed-to-cypress-lakes-despite-expense/article_669a9b11-a9f7-5e25-b8fa-9b9dd9424a8d.html

Let's see if we understand this right, 2013 through APRIL 2017, the Cypress Lakes Golf Course (AKA Muscle Shoals City Council) has LOST close to ONE MILLION DOLLARS of the tax payers' money.

104 MEMBERS and only 45 are CITY RESIDENTS.

MORE THAN HALF of the members of the Golf Course are NOT M.S. residents but are COSTING MUSCLE SHOALS TAX PAYERS CLOSE TO ONE MILLION DOLLARS?

Mr. Chris Hall, when is the light bulb going to go off in your head? I know your background and understand how you think everyone else should pay for your expertise, but at this rate, you're only one year in but it appears you have consumed gallons of the Kool-Aid if you think this is a smart proposition. Mr. Whitesell knew exactly what he was doing when he suckered all of you. Too bad we can't make y'all pay for your bad decisions out of your own pockets.

Lucy, you have some "splaining to do".

Mr. Arndt, you think those 59 non resident golf club members and others occasionally visiting the course are "probably" spending money on food and gas that justifies these massive losses? When will your light bulb start lighting up?

Sounds like you boys need to take a few accounting and budgeting classes along with those lame brains on the city council.

Leslie M. Shoals

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The only way to remedy this situation is to show up at council meetings and demand change. Make sure the press knows what is going to happen. Write letters to the TimesDaily. Write letters to and call your council members.

No, no city department may be making money, but how many are losing it in these amounts? 

Muscle Shoals Teacher Torture

This blog is rated PG:

First from Leslie M. Shoals...

Actually, the men are saying he does that weird thing men do,,, "nipple twisting" as they are explaining how "innocent" he is.

I asked if it was little boys he was doing that to and I get a scorned look!!

It is not proper nor is he a good role model with that kind of behavior.  But then again, look at others in MSCS...

* High school Coach Balentine beats his wife while having affair with guidance counselor. 

* Middle school Principal and assistant have affairs with teachers and principal gets promotion to newly created central office position.

* Coach Basden and others get bonuses out of tax payers money under the table.. 

Need more examples of the culture at MSCS?

Don't ask why kids act the way they do, ask WHY NOT.

That school board is totally disengaged. The love of title and free ride/trips?

 

Leslie M. Shoals

 

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Yes, gentle readers, the reported sin of the fourth grade teacher is "nipple twisting." We're not sure if this was a form of punishment for infractions or just a general habit. No matter which, it was wrong.

Yes, it was inflicted on both male and female. We're told it's painful. It would be especially painful for females who would at that age (9-10), at least many of them, have growing mammaries. Their breasts are tender and should be off limits no matter what.

Supt. Lindsey says this is not a criminal matter. Isn't it child abuse? We understand this man was suspended for 14 days; will the investigation be complete in two-weeks-time? Will the truth, whatever it is, then be told?

We're still waiting for someone to tell us why McBride Elementary where the abuse took place lied to the press about the incident. Yes, lied. Who told the receptionist/secretary to lie? The people of Muscle Shoals deserve some answers.

Special: Muscle Shoals Rec Department

We're presenting two guest blogs from Leslie M. Shoals. The first was written before the suspension of the Parks & Recreations director and the second after:


NICE PUBLICLY FUNDED BATTING CAGE on 6th street near the railroad track thanks to the TAXPAYERS of MSC (as determined by Parks & Rec Director Rusty Wheeles.)

Problem - it's on private property and only for the use of the residents of the subdivision. We don't think the property owner would have been willing to go along with this kind of underhanded activity if he had known. But then again, when does a panhandler tell you he's selling you stolen merchandise?

THANKS to the HONEST insiders at MSC that spoke out on this - otherwise it would be another cover up and dirty little secret in the MSC pandora pond.

Insiders say the City Council and Mayor met on monday night in an executive session to ponder how to cover up the latest debacle. Afterwards, they determined in their minds a harsh and swift punishment for Parks & Rec Department Head, Rusty Wheeles would only be 21 days suspension without pay.

Maybe he can volunteer to pick up trash on the roadsides to pay the taxpayers back for his little pet project.

David Bradford, Allen Noles, Neal Willis, Mike Lockhart, Chris Hall, Ken Sockwell  -----  HOW MUCH are the taxpayers on the hook for the cost of the batting cage? How much did it cost US for the employees that were ordered to install the cage on private property?

City Council and Mayor have you heard you represent the taxpayers? You are no better than these employees that take liberties at our expense - which says a lot about YOUR CHARACTER - OR LACK THEREOF.

IT'S TIME TO PUT ALL OF YOU ON SUSPENSION - PERMANENT SUSPENSION.

The 2 new guys, Chris Hall and Ken Sockwell, have fit right in with the status quo - Cover up till the hardworking employees that DO want things done right happen to tell some of the faMily dirt, then, and only then, deal with the illegal activity by giving a little pat on the hand and wink wink.

It's not the first time. Why aren't employees fired for repetitive violations? Why have a civil service and rules when anything goes when you are part of the faMily.

MAKE A PUBLIC STATEMENT COUNCILMEN AND MAYOR - WE, THE TAXPAYERS DESERVE AN EXPLANATION.

YOU MEN ALL NEED TO BE ON SUSPENSION - PERMANENTLY.

TERM LIMITS!     YES - TERM LIMITS FOR CITY COUNCIL!

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http://www.timesdaily.com/news/local/recreation-director-suspended-days/article_3d30c16f-b808-5f7f-bd44-474a392b48f0.html

Times Daily reports:

"Bradford said he believes members of the city recreation board, a five-member advisory board appointed by the City Council, knew about the project, but it was not authorized by the City Council or himself."

According to the City website of the Council Organizational Meeting on November 7, 2016, the council members were appointed to the following "committees" (oversight, etc).

President Noles stated that the next item of business was the appointment of Council committees for the Council term of 2016-2020.

President Noles announced the following appointments: 

Police Department Committee Allen Noles, Chairman - Chris Hall - Neal Willis 

Fire Department Committee - Mike Lockhard - Chairman - Allen Noles - Neal Willis

Public Works Committee  Neal Willis, Chairman - Allen Noles - Ken Sockwell

Parks & Recreation Committee   Chris Hall, Chairman - Ken Sockwell - Mike Lockhard

 Administration Committee Ken Sockwell, Chairman - Chris Hall -  Mike Lockhard

One has to ask themselves - with 3 COUNCILMEN ON THE PARKS & REC COMMITTEE and 3 BEING A MAJORITY OF THE CITY COUNCIL, WHO SHARES IN THE RESPONSIBILITY FOR THIS DEBACLE?

Shouldn't the council be suspended for 21 meetings for their participation? 

What about the others on the Park & Rec Board? What is their punishment?

Rusty Wheeles - it appears you had some "partners in crime" that are letting you take the fall for the team.

Oh, wait - we are faMily.

WHO "RE-IMBURSED" THE CITY FOR THIS LATEST DEBACLE? Bet the developer took the hit on this one. Not surprised, he is a stand up kind of guy.

I'm a betting at this point, it ain't the end of the Muscle Shoals Soaps.

Stay tuned.

Leslie M. Shoals

Fruit Basket Turnover & Team Swindle

From Leslie M. Shoals:

Posted: Friday, March 25, 2016 12:15 am

By Jennifer Edwards Staff Writer

MUSCLE SHOALS — The principal at Muscle Shoals Middle School was voted out by the city school board after two years at the helm.

Matthew Carpenter’s contract was non-renewed at the board’s monthly meeting Tuesday at the school system’s central office.

Carpenter was named principal in May 2014 and started June 1 of that year. At that time Superintendent Brian Lindsey said Carpenter’s experience “made him by far and above the best candidate.”

Lindsey would not comment on what changed.

“I can’t give any reason or make a comment regarding a personnel decision of that nature,” Lindsey said.

The non-renewal of Carpenter’s contract was included in an 11-item personnel report that was passed unanimously at Tuesday’s meeting. There were no comments from board members.

Carpenter was close to the end of a two-year probationary contract. Lindsey said in general new principals in the city school system are placed on probationary contracts.

NOT EVEN 3 MONTHS LATER.....................

Posted: Wednesday, June 22, 2016 12:00 am | Updated: 12:04 am, Wed Jun 22, 2016.

By Jennifer Edwards Staff Writer

MUSCLE SHOALS -- Former middle school Principal Matthew Carpenter has been hired as the district's assistant supervisor of students.

Carpenter was hired in his new position during the city school board's June meeting.His contract as the middle school principal was not renewed in March....

"Dr. Carpenter is very organized and is very attentive to details in dealing with records and paperwork," Lindsey said. "In this position, you need someone that has that skill set."

Lindsey said three people "showed interest" in the position. Carpenter received administrative tenure when he was the assistant principal at the middle school.

"We felt like we needed to go in another direction with leadership at the middle school, and in doing that we decided to non-renew his contract," Lindsey said. "That is not to say he did not have the administrative skills for the right position. He does have the skill set we were looking for in this assistant administrative position."

Carpenter's salary in the new position is $87,621, according to the district's finance officer Sarita Tapscott. That is less than he earned as principal, Lindsey said.

Carpenter's contract begins July 1.

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Kevin Davis, aka Ol' Sasquatch

March, 2016 regarding the non-renewal of Middle School Principal contract, Coach Lindsey would not comment on a "personnel decision of that nature" which would make the average taxpayer assume possible reasons for termination were personal actions or otherwise and not job performance. Should there have been a job performance issue as a principal, Coach Lindsey was obligated to give an explanation to the taxpayers, but chose otherwise which only leaves for a reasonable deduction of something concerning personal conduct/good name and character. WHAT EXACTLY IS "THAT NATURE"? To then appoint Kevin Davis as principal to follow Carpenter is an even bigger boondoggle given Kevin Davis was hired at MSHS as assistant principal by his old classmate, Chad Holden, when he had no job and was on administrative leave from Limestone County Schools.

June, 2016 Coach Lindsey is quoted as praising Carpenter on his organization skills and attention to details in dealing with records and paperwork, as most administrators will say about a good secretary. If paperwork and record keeping is the skill set needed in the newly created position, would a top notch secretary perform these duties and at a lower cost just as well? I believe I would question the logic on that if I were a secretary in MSCS.

One could only read between the lines to see that Carpenter has been branded at MSCS as forever an "assistant" since he didn't have the skill set to be a top administrator in a building where he taught and later served as assistant principal.

If memory serves me right, the law was rewritten a few years ago that took tenure away from administrators/contract employees and only grants those who are in the classroom with tenure.Not sure if Coach Lindsey is correct on an assistant principal having administrative tenure. I would tell him to check with that high priced out of town lawyer they keep sending our money to but the truth hasn't been spoken yet, so we won't push for that waste of money.

It appears Coach Lindsey is not addressing the core of the problem and taking control. There is a clear lack of institutional control when kids talk about employees having affairs, cheating, drugs, and other social evils and those who are guilty are transferred to another job, or given an assistant. Maybe Swindle will win the state championship for Basden and you people can quit stealing us taxpayers blind. Basden promised a state championship within the first 5 years of employment and it's now what, year 11? Team Swindle!! We don't care if Russellville is laughing at MSCS. We want a championship! Team Swindle!!!

TEAM SWINDLE!


Leslie M. Shoals

Muscle Shoals: Truth or Lies?

We received this from a reader: 

In reference to the blog from Leslie Shoals that you've been endorsing all week. There are a lot of lies being told in her blog. You are publishing her blog so that makes you accountable as well. Rusty Wheeles does not get "free golf" at Cypress Lakes. He pays for a membership there just like many others including myself. There are many city employees that do play golf there that do not pay but Rusty isn't one of them. You might want to do some research before you start slandering people in a public forum. I'm sure it's easy to throw anything out there when you don't publish your identity. But publishing lies is going too far.

First, we publish Leslie's guest blogs since we know who the blogger actually is and know the knowledge that the blogger possesses of the City of Muscle Shoals; however, if anything is ever published in error, we certainly want to correct it.

Second, vehicle use aside, we're not sure why a city employee using a golf course or tennis court in the off hours would be out of line. If the employee wanted to use during peak hours, then, yes, he or she should pay. We welcome comments on that.

*****

Now a rebuttal blog by Leslie:

Batter Up!

Story is Robert Eaton contacted Rusty wanting to build a batting cage in his subdivision. He told Rusty he would pay for it and pay the city workers to build it. Rusty said ok, but then afterwards they found out it was private property belonging to the city. The reason no one knew this beforehand is because the Parks & Rec Board doesn't have an attorney. Every other Board in Muscle Shoals has an attorney except that one. Nonetheless, Rusty has turned in his vehicle and no one plays golf for free.

Whew, glad someone was nice enough to clear that up! Now we know Mr. Eaton doesn't call a fellow business owner to have services performed, instead, calls our tax paid employees to intervene. Sad that he chose to have our government employees work for him rather than buy from a business that is paying a business license, employing local people and collecting and paying sales tax, not to mention the community and social contributions small business makes to our area. We gave him the benefit of the doubt for being involved in something like that.

We hope Mr. Williams added sales tax on the cost of materials of the batting cage?  Why did it take someone reporting this to get the payment? Didn't Mr. Bradford say this happened back in March?

SO, if someone wants the city to do work on their private property, department heads don't know the regulations and laws pertaining to that? Sounds like MSC needs to hire people that can understand law and most importantly follow rules. Or, will there be yet another excuse for veteran employees, Mayor and City Councilmen violating the laws, or do they just not have a set of rules and regulations that adhere to the laws of the state of Alabama?

How many other projects have been done that have yet to be uncovered?

As far as the vehicle use - that has NOT been addressed. There are too many MSC vehicles seen in other cities (not just local cities) with employees and their family members traveling in them.

WHY do employees run personal errands in OUR city vehicles at OUR expense on OUR payroll?

Blame it all on the Park & Rec Board not having an attorney - but sometimes it's just plain common sense and integrity that should be a minimum requirement to serve on any Board, not just that you live in the city and can fog a mirror.

Will we hear any discussion at a "public" council meeting on the use of vehicles? Little Joe always tried to have that addressed, but no one would discuss it. 

NO ONE plays golf for free?  Hmmmmm.  Again, glad someone cleared that up too.

Mayor - Council - Who do you serve?????

Batter Up! 

Leslie M. Shoals

*****

Leslie brings up some very interesting points about Robert Eaton's involvement in this. Surely he knows enough tax law to have avoided this?

Does Partial Power Corrupt Partially? See Muscle Shoals

We're told that absolute power corrupts absolutely; how about partial power? It's few individuals who aren't corrupted at least a little by their jobs. It's not just Gov. Bentley or a long list of other higher ups. It can be and often is the smaller players.

Here's a great read from Leslie M. Shoals:

According to people on the "inside", Sports as a top priority aren't limited to the faMily at MSCS. Insiders at MSC report:

MSC Parks & Rec director orderd (as MSC Parks & Rec Department) a batting cage for the use of families in his subdivision on 6th street. Parks & Rec employees installed the batting cage under his direction and orders. 

Rumors say 3 City Councilmen that serve on that Board are aware of the purchase, as well as the mayor. It is on private land at the permission of the developer, who we believe thinks the residents in the subdivision are paying for it. Obviously, the residents think they are "reimbursing" the Parks & Rec director for the batting cage - too bad they don't know they have already paid for it, as well as all the citizens of MS. if these reports are true.

IF these people are correct in their stories, what is going to be done about the abuse of taxpayers money? Are these councilmen covering up illegal activities? Will the Parks & Rec Director finally be relieved of his duties?

Now that little Joe is gone, there won't be anyone speaking out about the use and abuse of positions.

Councilmen - Are you going to limit your terms since you are limiting the citizens? 

Time you all take a walk - a long one. 

WHAT SAY YOU MR. MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL?

 

Any truth to the "insiders" stories? You have some "splaining to do."

We can only hope there are a lot of insiders that have gotten this story wrong!!!!!!!!!

.

Leslie M. Shoals

*****

We had some sad news today about the mother of Dylan Milam. Theresa Milam passed away yesterday. We'll be posting arrangements later. Our sincerest sympathies to her family.

Several Concerns as a Muscle Shoals Citizen

Below is a blog written by our regular writer Leslie M. Shoals. Leslie is the only one of our writers who resides in the city of Muscle Shoals. Yes, we know that another local blogger has attempted to implicate owners/editors of other sites as being part of our blogging team. You may believe him or you may believe us. If we wished to lie about the person's involvement, we would also lie about Leslie's. So, yes, Leslie has a special interest in the upcoming tax referendum, while the rest of us do not. 

How would Shoalanda vote if she lived in the city of Muscle Shoals? The answer is "No" since current tax revenue isn't being spent expeditiously, we can't believe any added revenue would be spent in any more accountable fashion. 

*****

The belief that educators model good behavior for the students is something that is sacred. It's critical for the development for young minds to witness the highest level of moral and ethical behavior of those school employees they are exposed to at every level.

However, the Muscle Shoals City Schools are failing miserably in setting the good example for their students in the importance of following rules and concentrating on getting a quality education.

Muscle Shoals Employee Handbook - as adopted by the School Board upon recommendation by the superintendent:

4.11 Political Activity

        a. Employees may not appropriate Board property or resources for use in political campaigns and may not engage in partisan political activities (including but not limited to the distribution of campaign material or literature) during regular school or duty hours or at a Board sponsored or sanctioned events, functions, or at activities at which the employee is on duty or assigned official responsibilities.

         d. Political signs may not be placed on schools or school board property. 

As you can see from the pictures taken at the High School, McBride Elementary and the Middle School, there is very little regards the principals really care what the rules are, nor do they fear being held responsible for clearly violating the rules. Then again, Superintendent Lindsey doesn't hold any respect and regards for the board members doing right either as he has vote yes signs lined up in front of the Board Central Office as well as the Community Ed Office next door. (now - how about that community?)

Let's look at much deeper and troubling reports out of the Middle School. A PE teacher (non resident) lectured the children to tell their parents to vote for an increase in property taxes based on it will only cost their parents $4 a month and the children would reap the benefits when they get to the high school where this tax will allow them to buy really nice PE equipment for them to use there. Wow - Haven't heard that as one of the "capital improvement" plans Mr. Lindsey has thrown out there.

Earlier there was much ado made about McBride Elementary School (principal is non resident as well) using the taxpayer's LED school sign to promote the political campaign "Vote Yes".

Now, we have him, and the Middle School Principal (non-resident) lining the street and around the multi million dollar athletic facility with campaign signs to vote yes - clearly violating the policies - with no regard for the rules.

How do these administrators expect the children to respect them, let alone follow the rules, and aspire to do great things, with this kind of childish and illegal acts going on?

What is the penalty for such? Those are also spelled out within the pages of "thou shalt nots", however, there has to be moral and ethical governance and oversight for a civilized society to function in such a manner.

Mr. Willie Thompson, Mr. Farrell Southern, Mr. Clay Wood, Mr. Stoddard, Ms. Rudolf, did you read the handbooks before you approved them to make them binding rules of procedures? Do you realize by your lack of enforcement of rules, you have set a precedent for any and all attempted enforcement of rules to be thrown out in a court of law?

CITY COUNCILMAN NOLES, WILLIS, LOCKHARD, SOCKWELL - MAYOR. Is this what you condone with your appointment of yes people to that board? Your test of accountability will be taken in 2020 - we're ready to grade you, and not soon enough. 

And, you want the good citizens of Muscle Shoals to give you MORE MONEY? You can't manage simple tasks like rules and regulations, how can we expect you to manage money?

It's obvious, you have bigger problems than money - you have a serious lack of moral and ethical values in some of your administrators.

This ole timer says a BIG NO to any further feeding of the fattened cow.

VOTE NO - AUGUST 28th