Governor Siegelman Sees
Something Fishy at Pintlala School

Eagles of Angling Senior Bass
Tournament to Benefit Students…

MONTGOMERY, Alabama - Alabama Governor Don Siegelman took time out Monday to go fishing. In a news conference at the state capitol he declared, "May 18th as an official hooky day."

However, it won't be an official excused absence for state students. "Only fishermen 62-years and older will be excused," said Governor Siegelman in announcing the special Ray Scott's Senior Bass Tournament to be fished May 18th at Pintlala, Alabama.

Governor Siegelman said his office is declaring May 18th as the official "Eagles of Angling Senior Bass Tournament Day" in Alabama.

"We're paying special attention to these anglers," said Governor Siegelman, "not because they're great fishermen, but because they're great citizens. They're not coming to play hooky but to standup for the needs of public education."

The Governor introduced Ray Scott, the founder of the Bass Anglers Sportsman Society (B.A.S.S.) and the world's largest fishing organization, who explained the tournament will be a special benefit for the Pintlala Elementary School.

"I've invited a 100 senior age fishermen to participate and help raise money for the teacher's needs at our country crossroad school in Pintlala," said Scott. "Our goal is to raise $50,000 from tournament entries and supporting sponsor's fees to establish a perpetual fund to supply teacher's needs for classrooms and instructions."

Scott said, "We'd like to replace the four tin boxes (buildings) at the school used for class rooms, but our first goal is to supply the needed teaching tools. At Pintlala, we're blessed to have dedicated teachers. It's a public shame we can't get the money dedicated to do their job. I'm shocked to learn that there's not money available for basic supplies. Even paper and paper clips are in short supply."

"This is the perfect example of what needs to happen all across our state," said Governor Siegelman. "Government can't do everything for everybody. We're faced with an economic downturn and state monies will get tighter.

"As Governor of the great State of Alabama, I'm making an appeal. Join with others in your community to 'Adopt a School.' Ask your local teachers: How can we help improve our children's education? Everyone needs to get involved. The parents. Civic groups. Business leaders. Individuals."

Politics aside, the Governor made a candid reference to General Dwight Eisenhower's remark after assuming the presidency. "Politics is like war," said Eisenhower. "There comes a time when everybody is a soldier."

"We need to close ranks," continued Governor Siegelman, "and get personally involved with our local schools. You can start simply by donating a roll of paper towels, notebook paper or classroom supplies. Every day, teachers have these simple, basic needs to teach.

"What this benefit fishing tournament for the Pintlala School can be is a catalyst to get people involved in every community…from Pintlala to Pell City, from Mobile to Montgomery, from Fort Payne to Fort Deposit, there's a call to arms when every school bell rings.

"Like old soldiers, these Senior Eagles of Angling are answering the call. We salute them," concluded Governor Siegelman.

The anglers will pay a $500 entry fee to fish on Scott's 55-acre lake. Supporting sponsors are contributing $5,000.

Scott says the "living legends" of bass fishing are being invited. To date he's landed a commitment from one of the country's most avid senior bass fishermen, former President George Bush. "Mr. Bush joined us to fish in the previous Eagles of Angling tournaments to raise money for the Pintlala Baptist Church and is looking forward to a return trip," commented Scott.

The weigh-in will be open to the public with the Senior Eagles of Angling competition ending at 5 p.m. Friday, May 18th at the Pintlala Elementary School located at 214 Federal Road, Pintlala, Alabama.