Alabama Legislature Honors the Crimson Tide

By Elton Camp According to press reports, the Alabama Legislature has named each member of the University of Alabama football team as an honorary member of that body and as Colonel in the state militia. Strops Citanaf, speaker of the house, said The upcoming rout of Notre Dame for the national championship is one of the most important events in the history of our sovereign state. We are proud to have the team as members of our government and look forward to their induction after the conclusion of the game. Citanaf went on to explain that while players will not be allowed to vote in deliberations of the legislature, each may choose the title of Senator or Representative as he prefers. A section of reserved seating is being installed in the legislative meeting room in the capitol building in Montgomery. Transportation by state limousine will be provided for the team each day the legislature is in session. Alabama governor, Rufus Devaney King, in appointing the players as colonels noted, In the finest tradition of Southeast Conference football, it is my privilege to designate as colonels the fine young men of the Crimson Tide. They are entitled to all the advantages and privileges that go with that honor. Derif Hcaoc, the coach of competing Auburn University, joined in congratulating his rivals. Two years ago our team earned the national championship, so we well know the thrill of victory, but this year we have tasted the agony of defeat. Along with members of the Tigers squad, I commend the coach and players at the University of Alabama and rejoice in their impending win, but remind them that the honors they receive are but a fleeting thing. The legislature enacted HB 8791 which designates the day of the championship game as an official state holiday. All schools, courthouses and any official events will be closed that day. Citanaf said, We also urge private businesses to grant leave with pay to their employees so that they may attend the game. The measure also sets January 1, 2013 as Crimson Tide Day. Victory celebrations are being planned in every part of Alabama, although effigies are being prepared for incineration in the event of need.