Bell makes friendly bet on Big Red's game against Gators

GAINESVILLE - Hall County District 4 Commissioner Ashley Bell has made a friendly wager on Friday night's state championship football game between his alma mater, Gainesville High School, and Ware County.

"I couldn't be more proud of Gainesville High making it this far, and I don't think this is a bet I'm going to lose," said Bell.

Bell has placed the bet with Ware County District 1 Commissioner Carlos Nelson, saying if the Gainesville High Red Elephants emerge victorious, Nelson will send him some alligator meat in honor of Ware County High School's mascot: the gators.

"I think I'll have Ashley come down and pick out his own gator," Nelson said. "He can pick out his own gator tail from the swamp here in Ware County."

If, however, Ware County wins Friday night's game, Bell will send chicken to the Ware County commissioner since Hall County is well known for its ties to the poultry industry.

"It won't be a live chicken, but we'll figure out some way to get some of Hall County's prize poultry down to him if the game doesn't go our way," said Bell.

Ware County's commissioner said he's looking forward to Friday night and the outcome of their wager.

"I think it's going to be a really good game," Nelson said. "Having a friendly bet with Ashley is a good thing because Ashley is one of the good guys."

The Gainesville High Red Elephants will take on the Ware County Gators for the state title at 8:30 Friday night at the Georgia Dome in Atlanta.