1. Career Exploration Center holds ribbon cutting, unveils next phase

    By Christina Faulkner

    The Ozark City Schools Board of Education and D.A. Smith Middle School held a special ribbon cutting ceremony Tuesday, April 8, to celebrate the transformation of the Career Exploration Center—a facility dedicated to preparing students for real-world success by giving them early access to career-based learning.

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  2. Ozark Police Department announces promotions

    By Christina Faulkner

    The Ozark Police Department recently announced the promotions of several officers in recognition of their exceptional dedication and service across various divisions.

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  3. Lt. Dan Band rocks Fort Novosel: A day of community, music, and mission

    By Travis Parker

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  4. Ozark Police Department responds to Jasmine Hills shooting

    By Christina Faulkner

    In the early hours of April 13, the Ozark Police Department, in collaboration with the Dale County Sheriff’s Office, responded to a shooting incident at the Jasmine Hills apartment complex. The call came in at approximately 1:00 AM, reporting that multiple rounds had struck an apartment, narrowly missing several individuals inside, including two children.

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  5. Get the Garden Going!

    Submitted by County Extension Coordinator Melissa Voynich

    It’s time for the sunshine to be pretty steady, and with that comes so many ways to get planting in and around your green space.

    Whether you have lots of pots, a small plot, or giant grassy hills, we have advice on what to plant, when, and how to keep it going.

    Two of our favorite events to help with this process are right around the corner, and we are looking forward to seeing you at them.

    First, the Claybank Master Gardner Plant Sale is on April 26 from 9 a.m. until Noon.

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  6. Ozark gets its groove (and grub) on at 18th Annual Crawdad Festival

    By Caitlyn Cummings

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  7. Authorities investigate potential hit-and-run death along Highway 231

    By Christina Faulkner

    A local man’s late-night trip to the store ended in tragedy when his body was discovered early Monday morning alongside Highway 231, just outside Midland City. Authorities have launched a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death.

    Dale County Coroner John Cawley identified the deceased as 53-year-old Troy L. Williams of Midland City. According to Cawley, Williams left his home Sunday night around 8:30 p.m., telling family members he was headed to a nearby convenience store on his bicycle. He never returned.

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  8. Wine, Dine & Auction fundraiser celebrates 30 years of changing lives

    By Christina Faulkner

    Get ready, Ozark — it’s time to Wine, Dine & Auction like never before as the Boys & Girls Club of Southeast Alabama celebrates 30 incredible years of service to the Wiregrass!

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  9. Ozark honors bus driver and fifth grader for life-saving actions

    By Christina Faulkner

    The City of Ozark recently recognized two local heroes whose quick thinking and compassion helped save the life of a fellow citizen. Ozark City Schools bus driver Rufus Hardison and fifth grader Deron Oliver were honored during a city council meeting for their actions on February 26, which led to emergency responders reaching a woman in distress just in time.

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  10. Alabama SB110 Clears Senate After Weight Limit Removed; Counties Still Cautious

    By Caitlyn Cummings

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  11. Wiregrass honors Vietnam veterans: A legacy remembered, 50 years later

    By Travis Parker 

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  12. Dale County Commission reviews key expenditures, declares Crime Victims' Rights Week

    By Caitlyn Cummings 

    The Dale County Commission convened for its regular meetings on March 11 and March 25, addressing a range of topics including financial appropriations, policy updates, and community initiatives. These meetings provided an opportunity for county officials to discuss and take action on key issues affecting Dale County residents.

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  13. Golf carts on city streets: What Ozark residents need to know

    By Christina Faulkner

    The City of Ozark has legalized the use of certain low-speed vehicles, primarily golf carts, on city streets—specifically those with speed limits of 25 miles per hour or lower. But operating one legally requires more than just hopping in and taking a drive.

    “These vehicles, when sharing roads with full-sized cars, SUVs, and trucks, come with specific responsibilities and regulations that residents must follow,” said Charles Ward, Director of Public Safety and Chief of Ozark Police.

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  14. Attorney General Steve Marshall addresses Dale County Republicans

    By Travis Parker 

    At the last Dale County Republican Club meeting, Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall addressed the crowd by looking back on his years in office, sharing key legal victories, and discussing his broader influence both in Alabama and on the national stage. Since taking office as the state’s 48th attorney general in 2017, Marshall has been committed to justice, championing law enforcement, and positioning Alabama as a significant player in shaping policies that resonate beyond state borders.

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  15. New Promise Foundation brings hope to Wiregrass cancer patients

    By Caitlyn Cummings

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  16. Ozark native David Matthews sworn in at USDA Executive Services Ceremony

    By Christina Faulkner

    David Matthews of Ozark was officially sworn in as the Director of State Operations for Rural Development at the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) during an Executive Services ceremony held in Washington, D.C.

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  17. Carroll High Alum Randall Morris named Dothan’s City Manager

    By Christina Faulkner

    Carroll High School graduate Randall S. Morris (Class of 1988) has been named Dothan’s next City Manager following an extensive nationwide search.

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  18. Moonlight, Music, and History: Holman House’s Dowling Pavilion debuts with elegant fundraiser

    By Caitlyn Cummings

    Despite the brisk, blustery winds and chilly temperatures, the grand opening of the Dowling Pavilion at the historic Holman House was nothing short of a resounding success. Guests braved the elements to attend Moonlight and Moonlighters, an elegant evening event that featured a delightful picnic-style dinner on the newly unveiled pavilion. Adding to the enchanting ambiance, live entertainment was provided by The Moonlighters, a beloved big band from Dothan known for their timeless melodies and vibrant performances.

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  19. Jernigan Road Dollar General opens

    Community Grand Opening celebration with giveaways scheduled for Saturday, March 29

    Press Release

    Dollar General is excited to announce its store at 3039 Jernigan Rd in Ozark is now open to provide the community with convenient and affordable access to household essentials! To celebrate, the Company plans to host a grand opening event on Saturday, March 29, at 8 a.m., which will include $10 complimentary gift cards to the first 50 adult customers and DG tote bags to the first 100 customers.

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  20. Show Me The Money!

    Submitted by County Extension Coordinator Melissa Voynich

    Our office had the opportunity to bring the budget simulation “Your Money, Your Life” to Ozark City Schools last week.

    On Friday, Extension and 4-H took over the DA Smith Middle School gym to build a simulation town with homes, utilities, a bank, car sales, grocery stores, childcare, and more.

    As eight graders walk in the simulation, they are assigned a career, salary, and home considerations like a partner and children.

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  21. Ozark Police Chief Charles Ward earns highest level of law enforcement executive certification

    By Christina Faulkner

    Ozark Police Chief Charles Ward was honored at the annual Alabama Association of Chiefs of Police Conference in Montgomery last month for completing 240 hours of training in the Certified Law Enforcement Executive Program.

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  22. Romie Mathews crowned 2025 Miss Ozark at 51st Annual Pageant

    By Caitlyn Cummings

    As the spotlight illuminated the stage, fifteen contestants took their places at the Miss Ozark Pageant, each filled with excitement and determination to claim the coveted crown. Sponsored by the Ozark Area Chamber of Commerce and held at the Ozark Civic Center, this year marked the 51st annual celebration of the Miss Ozark Pageant.

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  23. Tornado leaves trail of destruction in Troy and Banks, no fatalities reported

    By Christina Faulkner

    More than 200 people sheltered inside the Troy Recreation Center late Saturday night when an EF2 tornado tore through the southern part of the city, peeling away sections of the roof and allowing water to pour inside. Fortunately, no one was injured, but Troy Parks officials say the center will remain closed until repairs are completed.

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  24. A hidden gem in Ozark: The Ann Rudd Art Center showcases local talent in Annual Membership Exhibition

    By Caitlyn Cummings

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  25. Second Annual Wiregrass Spring Opener Poker Run brings riders together for a cause

    By Travis Parker 

    The US Veterans Motorcycle Club’s second annual Wiregrass Spring Opener Poker Run took place this past weekend, drawing a crowd of motorcycle enthusiasts and supporters eager to ride for a cause. With 74 motorcycles and approximately 110 participants—including passengers and those traveling in cars or trucks—the event proved to be a success both in turnout and fundraising.

    A Ride with a Purpose

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  26. Inaugural Dale County Sheriff’s PCA Pro Rodeo thrills crowds with action-packed weekend

    By Caitlyn Cummings

    The Dale County AgPlex was filled to capacity as enthusiastic spectators gathered to witness an action-packed weekend of thrilling rodeo events. Attendees enjoyed an electrifying lineup of bull riding, barrel racing, team roping, and a variety of other exhilarating competitions during the highly anticipated inaugural Dale County Sheriff’s PCA Pro Rodeo. This exciting event was proudly hosted by Dale County Sheriff Mason Bynum on March 7 and 8, drawing crowds from near and far to experience the rich tradition of rodeo firsthand.

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  27. Ozark EMS upgrades fleet with new ambulance, enhancing emergency care

    By Christina Faulkner

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  28. Ozark City Council approves land purchase for sports complex amid transparency concerns

    By Caitlyn Cummings

    Two real estate contracts given the title Project Evergreen, executed by the City of Ozark have become the topic of debate. The Star has learned that at its February 18 meeting, the Ozark City Council entered an executive session where Mayor Mark Blankenship disclosed that he had negotiated land purchases. The land, located along US-231 and Roy Parker Road, was intended for a proposed sports complex.

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  29. Ozark recognized as a 2024 Micropolitan

    By Christina Faulkner

    Ozark has been named one of the nation's top micropolitan areas in Site Selection magazine’s 2024 rankings, a recognition that underscores the city's economic growth and potential for future development. This designation places Ozark among the most attractive small cities in the United States for corporate facility investment, highlighting its role as an emerging hub for business and industry.

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  30. Daleville City Council honors service, addresses growth, and strengthens community in recent meeting

    By Lynnette De Jesus

    The Daleville City Council’s recent meetings were a blend of celebration, discussion, and problem-solving, reflecting the town’s progress and the challenges still ahead. From honoring a longtime public servant to tackling economic development, infrastructure, and community concerns, the meetings underscored the importance of civic engagement and public participation in Daleville’s future.

    Honoring a Legal Legacy

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  31. A Final Curtain Call: Margie Benson honored as she retires from high school theater

    By Christina Faulkner

    The curtain closed on a legendary career at the Flowers Center for the Performing Arts as Margorie “Margie” Benson directed her final high school production, Funny Girl. After 42 years of dedication to high school theater, Benson is retiring, leaving behind a legacy that has shaped countless students and a community that deeply appreciates her contributions.

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  32. Ozark Area Chamber of Commerce honors local businesses at annual awards banquet

    By Caitlyn Cummings

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  33. OPD enhances transparency and safety with new body and dash cameras

    By Christina Faulkner

    The Ozark Police Department has taken a significant step in enhancing transparency and officer safety by equipping all road patrol officers with body-worn cameras and installing dash cameras in every patrol vehicle. This initiative, made possible through an agreement with Axon at the beginning of the year, ensures that every officer and patrol car is equipped with recording capabilities that provide critical documentation of law enforcement activities.

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  34. Daleville Junior Beta Club shines at State Convention

    By Shara Wilkinson

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  35. What’s this Surcharge for Eggs?

    Submitted by County Extension Coordinator Melissa Voynich

    If you have walked into the Extension office lately, you have seen our biosecurity footbath to help stop the spread of avian flu. It is worth the small extra step (literally) to help everyone’s birds.

    As you have noticed, eggs are worth more than before, and so we wanted to share information from our Food Safety team on eggs.

    Sharing or Selling Your Eggs

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  36. Ozark City Council debates salary raises amid procedural hurdles

    By Caitlyn Cummings

    The Ozark City Council convened on February 18 to conduct official business in anticipation of the upcoming municipal elections. The meeting covered a range of topics, including recognizing outstanding achievements, addressing administrative compensation, and reviewing various ordinances and resolutions that impact the city’s operations.

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  37. Proposed Alabama bill threatens transparency, puts local newspapers at risk

    By Christina Faulkner

    Newspapers remain a pillar of democracy and transparency, particularly in small, rural communities where they serve as the primary source of local news. A proposed bill in the Alabama Legislature threatens to dismantle one of their vital roles by eliminating the requirement for public works bids exceeding $100,000 to be published in newspapers of general circulation. Instead, these notices would be relegated to a government-run website, a move that raises concerns over transparency, accountability, and the very survival of local newspapers.

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  38. New Queens Crowned at the 2025 Dale County Pageant

    By Caitlyn Cummings

    Sparkles abounded as girls from across the county competed in the Dale County Pageant on February 22. Contestants vied for the titles of Tiny Miss, Future Little Miss, Little Miss, Petite Miss, Junior Miss, Teen Miss, and Miss Dale County. The winners of the Little Miss and Miss categories will go on to compete later this year at the Miss National Peanut Festival Pageant.

    The girls were judged on their stage presence, poise, interview skills, and written communication.

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  39. Legislature approves Alabama Veterans Resources Center

    By Christina Faulkner

    Rep. Ed Oliver and State Sen. Andrew Jones have successfully advanced legislation to establish the Alabama Veterans Resources Center (AVRC), with the bill passing both the House and the Senate. The legislation is now expected to be signed into law by Governor Kay Ivey.

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  40. Honoring Johnny and Gwen Davis: A legacy of service and commitment

    By Travis Parker

    As we celebrate Black History Month, we honor the legacy of Johnny and Gwendolyn Davis—two remarkable veterans whose dedication to service has spanned decades, both in and out of uniform. Their combined military careers, civic engagement, and continued advocacy for fellow veterans serve as an inspiration to their community and beyond.

    LTC Gwendolyn L. Davis: A Trailblazing Career in Military Medicine

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  41. Governor Ivey officially launches Public Safety Package

    By Christina Faulkner

    Montgomery – Governor Kay Ivey joined other Alabama law enforcement officials, state legislators, and several invited mayors for a Safe Alabama Event in the Alabama State Capitol’s Old House Chamber on Wednesday, February 12, 2025, in Montgomery, Ala. Among the attendees were Director of Ozark Public Safety and Chief of Police Charles Ward and Dale County Sheriff Mason Bynum. During the event, Governor Ivey unveiled the much-anticipated public safety package, initially introduced during her State of the State address on February 4.

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  42. Ozark grows green spaces earning 2024 Tree City USA recognition

    By Christina Faulkner

    The City of Ozark has been recognized as a 2024 Tree City USA by the Arbor Day Foundation in honor of its dedication to planting, growing, and maintaining trees for the benefit of the community, marking another year of dedication to preserving and enhancing its green spaces. This honor highlights the city's ongoing efforts to maintain and expand its urban forestry.

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  43. Clouse appointed Chairman of House Transportation, Utilities and Infrastructure Committee

    By Christina Faulkner

    Montgomery – House Speaker Nathaniel Ledbetter has appointed Rep. Steve Clouse (R-Ozark) as Chairman of the House Transportation, Utilities and Infrastructure Committee. Clouse steps into this leadership role following the departure of Rep. Randall Shedd (R-Fairview), who is leaving the House to serve alongside newly elected Senate President Pro Tem Garlan Gudger.

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  44. Daleville HS Band to perform in Italy

    By Shara Wilkinson, 

    Junior at Daleville High School 

    Band students at Daleville High School will soon get to experience a unique opportunity with a trip to Italy. As part of a cultural exchange program, members of the band will travel to Italy from March 19, touring the country through March 25. The group will tour Venice, Florence, and Italy over the seven-day trip. While in Italy the group will perform in Florence and Rome.  

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  45. Honoring Ozark’s Black Pioneers: A Legacy of Education and Service

     By Christina Faulkner

    As we continue to celebrate Black History Month, we commemorate the citizens who contributed to Ozark's growth and prosperity through religion, education, business, skilled trades, agriculture, and other vocations. This is only a partial history of the Black community in Ozark.

    Much of what is printed here was originally written by Lucy P. Loman and published in the 1976 issue of The Southern Star. It has been edited for clarity and to reflect contemporary language and terminology.

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