Columns

Alabama’s former state flower, the goldenrod, is in full bloom in the wild with its radiant gold flowers. It’s often blamed for causing allergies but we are told allergies are caused by the ragweed that grows along with the goldenrod. Years ago our state flower was changed to the camellia that blooms in a multitude of varieties and colors. Each one is beautiful in its own way! ******* Doug Aplin gave us a big shoutout during Eufaula High’s football game Friday night. We appreciate him thinking about The Record to mention coverage the team has received. We also thank Connie Bedsole who listens to the games and writes articles as well as Jeff Lee, photographer, who contributes fabulous pictures. Andre Wright is great to cover the Jaguars for us. It takes a team to make it all come together. Thanks to all who contribute to our sports news. ****** Speaking of sports, we were all on “pins and needles” up to the final second of the Alabama- Tennessee game Saturday night. The Volunteers pulled off a victory with a field goal as time ticked off the clock to end the game. The Vols won 52-49 to end a 15-year streak between the rivals.

The cooler mornings have been very pleasant but we are still facing drought conditions. Predictions are for some rain this week so maybe the showers will help. We still need to continue using caution with forest fires that easily spread. This time of year also brings a wonderful fragrance in the air with farmers harvesting crops. For those who do not live in peanut country, the smell of peanuts being turned and harvested is unique. Thanks to our farmers who are in the fields harvesting crops that feed and clothe many people.

Television subscribers who have Dish satellites were not very happy Saturday. They discovered that all football games that were televised on ESPN were blocked and offered as “Pay Per View” only. This is because ESPN and Dish had not reached an agreement but, as we understand, coverage was restored by Monday. That’s too late for all the football fans who were ready for some good games to watch Saturday. There were a lot of disgruntled people to say the least! ****** Do not burn outside without a permit! We are under a Red Flag warning. This occurs when we have warm temperatures, very low humidities and stronger winds that produce an increased risk of fire. While we are enjoying the nice and comfortable weather with lower temperatures and less humidity, they don’t make conditions good for forest and grass fires. Please take precautions! ****** Friday’s homecoming parade in downtown Clayton was great. We commend the organizers and participants who made it a success. It was a fun day with good food and entertainment.

It’s been a busy hurricane season so far and all eyes were on the various paths predicted for Ian at press time Tuesday. Some models predicted landfall in the Florida Panhandle while others called for landfall in the Tampa area. Just last week Fiona caused devastation in Costa Rico and worked its way to Nova Scotia. We are thankful to the meteorologists who give us plenty of warnings about inclement weather and we pray for those who are directly

A columnist with the Alabama Political Reporter, a news outlet that does a fantastic job of informing the public about a wide range of subjects, has written informative information about broadband funding and American Rescue Plan Act monies that state and county officials are receiving. John Holmes is correct when he said these are unprecedented times for governmental bodies to receive a windfall of money that came as a result of COVID-19.

The opening of college football season for the state’s two SEC teams lacked a lot of excitement. The most excitement at the Auburn-Mercer game was the 90-minute game delay due to lightning and flooding at the stadium. The Tigers won the game 42-16 before a practically empty stadium after most fans left due to the game delay. The Crimson Tide shut out Utah State 55-0 for the Tide’s season opener. Next week the Tide plays the Longhorns at Texas A&M while Auburn plays San Jose State at home. Maybe the weather will be better and field play will be more challenging this Saturday.