1. New President of WCCD named

    Staff Reports

    On Wednesday, May 14, during its monthly meeting, the Alabama Community College System (ACCS) Board of Trustees approved Chancellor Jimmy H. Baker’s recommendation to appoint current Gadsden State Community College president Dr. Kathy Murphy as President of Wallace Community College in Dothan.

    “We've made a decision that I believe will be proven to be a very good decision because we had an applicant that we already know what they can and will do,” said Baker. “Dr. Murphy’s heart, energy, and will to do a good job are second to none.”

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  2. Ozark departments face budget overages as council weighs essential needs

    By Christina Faulkner

    Two city departments in Ozark have exceeded their annual budgets, according to Chief Financial Officer Chris Peters, but each was granted approval for additional funds during the May 6 City Council meeting to continue services and complete vital repairs.

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  3. Ozark-Dale County Library marks 80 years of connection and curiosity

    By Caitlyn Cummings

    This year, the Ozark-Dale County Library celebrates an incredible milestone—80 years of service to the people of Ozark and Dale County. For eight decades, the library has stood as more than just a place to check out books. It has been a sanctuary of learning, a spark for imagination, and a heartbeat of the community.

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  4. New Dale County Baptist Director Rev. John Granger reflects on six decades of ministry

    By Travis Parker

    For almost sixty years, Rev. John Granger has been on a journey he never set out to take. Starting in pastoral ministry and moving into regional Baptist missions, his path has been filled with surprising chances, steadfast faith, and a strong dedication to helping communities both through preaching and administration. Now, he serves as the Interim Director of Missions for the Dale County Baptist Association, and his story is still unfolding.  

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  5. I’m so excited for Raptors: An animal experience like you have never seen before!

    Submitted by County Extension Coordinator Melissa Voynich

    After the graduation weeks and final days of school have passed, what are you doing to continue your learning in fun ways? We have LOTS of answers for you!

    Our Camplify! summer experience for ages 9-18 is open for registration for two weeks only at NO cost.

    We must thank our Premier Sponsor, ALFA- Farmers Federation of Dale County, for supporting our dreams and making them a reality this week.

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  6. Army medic transforms Snow White into gritty Southern thriller

    By Travis Parker  

    When Cole Wagner set out to reimagine the classic Snow White story, his mind didn’t drift to dwarfs in a Bavarian forest or fairy-tale castles. Nope. Instead, he envisioned the narrative unfolding under the wide-open Southern sky, with veterans, bikers, and everyday heroes in the frame.  

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  7. Ozark City Schools Showcase celebrates student opportunities and achievements

    By Christina Faulkner

    On Thursday, May 1, Carroll High School hosted the Ozark City Schools Showcase, offering parents, students, and community members an opportunity to explore the diverse educational and extracurricular opportunities available throughout the district. Students from Mixon Elementary School, D.A. Smith Middle School, Carroll High School, the Career Technical Education Center, and Eagle Academy brought their projects, exhibits, and achievements, providing a dynamic experience for all attendees.

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  8. Exceptional cadets recognized at JROTC Awards Breakfast

    By Travis Parker

    During the annual JROTC Outstanding Cadet Awards Breakfast, held by the Enterprise Chamber of Commerce Military & Veterans Affairs Committee, six remarkable JROTC cadets from the Wiregrass region were honored. This event, once again generously sponsored by Yancey Parker’s, spotlighted the hard work, growth, and leadership of these outstanding young individuals.

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  9. Spring Cleaning for grilling

    By Bridgette Brannon,

    Regional Extension Agent, Food Safety Team

    Outdoor cooking is one of the crowning moments of summer. Grilling is perfect for entertaining at home, the lake, birthday parties, or just because. Plus, it is a fantastic way to be outside to thaw from the cold winter and/or spring months.

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  10. HCS students explore Mvskoke culture

    By Christina Faulkner

    Harvest Christian School hosted Amanda Calvert Givens of the Southeastern Mvskoke Tribe on Thursday, May 8, for a special Cultural Day event. This day gave students a unique opportunity to explore a culture outside their own and gain valuable insight into the history, traditions, and perspectives of the Mvskoke people.

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  11. Students travel through time with classic cars at “Driving through the Decades” event

    By Travis Parker 

    A celebration of history on wheels took center stage at D.A. Smith Middle School this past Friday as students, car owners, and community members gathered for the first-ever “Driving Through the Decades” event in the Wiregrass. With 54 cars on display—from 1912 to 2025—and sixth-grade students presenting research projects on assigned vehicles in period attire, the event brought education and nostalgia together in a unique and exciting way.

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  12. Fleeing fentanyl trafficker busted in high-speed chase

    By Christina Faulkner

    An Ozark man was arrested after leading Dale County Sheriff’s deputies and other law enforcement on a high-speed chase down U.S. Highway 231 in the early morning hours of Wednesday, April 30.

    After observing a red Dodge Charger with an equipment violation traveling north on Highway 231 near County Road 213, a deputy with the Dale County Sheriff's Office attempted a traffic stop near the intersection of Highway 231 and Highway 51.

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  13. A new era of care: Claybank Family Medicine opens in Ozark

    By Caitlyn Cummings

    In an exciting new chapter of Dale Medical Center’s history, Chief Executive Officer Vernon Johnson, alongside a team of dedicated staff members, officially cut the ribbon on Claybank Family Medicine during a ceremony held on April 29. The new clinic, located in the former StatMed building on Andrews Avenue, marks a significant milestone in the medical center’s ongoing mission to provide high-quality, accessible healthcare to the Ozark community. The facility officially opened its doors to patients on May 1.

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  14. Ozark shooting investigation leads to assault charge

    By Christina Faulkner

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  15. Dale County 4-H hosts Regional Competitions; honors students

    Submitted by County Extension Coordinator Melissa Voynich

    The Dale County Extension office hosted the Regional 4-H Showcase at Wallace College’s campus in Midland City on April 26.

    If you have not heard of our flagship youth program before, Alabama 4-H is a youth development organization that provides leadership and citizenship opportunities to empower students. Interactive activities in and out of the classroom develop that mission.

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  16. OPD arrests two in multi-state card skimming investigation

    By Christina Faulkner

    The Ozark Police Department announced the successful arrest of two individuals involved in a sophisticated card-skimming operation that threatened the financial security of the community and beyond.

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  17. Ozark Boys and Girls Club celebrates 30th Annual Wine, Dine, and Auction Night

    By Caitlyn Cummings

    The Ozark Boys and Girls Club hosted its highly anticipated annual Wine, Dine, and Auction Night fundraiser on April 24 at the Ozark Civic Center. This cherished event brought together community members, local businesses, and supporters for an evening of food, music, and generosity, all in support of the youth in Ozark.

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  18. ‘Trailer Park Musical’ brings humor, heart—and support—to Flowers Center

    By Christina Faulkner

    The Flowers Center for the Performing Arts is bringing a touch of chaos and comedy to downtown Ozark with its upcoming production of The Great American Trailer Park Musical. Performances will be held Friday, May 2, and Saturday, May 3.

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  19. Daleville Police arrest suspect in Templeton Drive armed robbery

    By Christina Faulkner

    The Daleville Department of Public Safety has announced the arrest of Antwan "Country Wayne" Young, 36, of Daleville, in connection with a residential armed robbery that occurred on April 14.

    Officers responded to a home on Templeton Drive at approximately 9:21 p.m. after receiving a report of an armed robbery. According to the victim, a male suspect entered the residence, brandished a handgun, and demanded cash. The suspect fled with an undisclosed amount of money before officers arrived.

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  20. Juvenile identified in Carroll High School threat investigation

    By Christina Faulkner

    The Ozark Police Department has identified and detained a juvenile in connection with an anonymous email threat alleging plans for a school shooting at Carroll High School.

    On April 23, Ozark City School administrators alerted police after receiving a concerning email. Investigators from the Ozark Police Department immediately partnered with cybercrime and digital forensic experts from the State Bureau of Investigation and the FBI to launch an extensive investigation.

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  21. Pope Francis dies during the Octave of Easter

    By Pierre Little

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  22. Savannah Pedroza named Alabama Youth of the Year, an Ozark first

    By Christina Faulkner

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  23. Hounds Hunting with Heart shines with cars, hounds, and heart

    By Christina Faulkner with Susan Owens

    This year’s Hounds Hunting with Heart event, raising over $56,000, was a huge success—bringing together car enthusiasts, hunters, and families from near and far for a day full of fun, friendly competition, and unforgettable memories.

    One of the big moments of the day was the $500 raffle, and we’re excited to announce that Jeff Johnson took home the prize!

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  24. Daleville stepfather and stepson arrested in child sex abuse investigation

    By Christina Faulkner

    A Daleville stepfather and stepson who share a residence have been arrested following a joint investigation into separate cases of child sexual abuse.

    Jeffery Bush, 39, has been charged with Sodomy in the First Degree. Chris Scott, 60, faces a charge of Sexual Abuse of a Child. The charges stem from incidents that reportedly occurred years ago. Both suspects were known to the victims, and investigators believe additional charges are likely as the investigation unfolds.

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  25. High School Students Attend Southeast Ag Career Expo

    Submitted by County Extension Coordinator Melissa Voynich

    Alabama Extension reaches into every county, and we are pleased to have a phenomenal team in the Southeast who work together to help our local students.

    When Wiregrass RC&D presented a chance to host a regional agriculture fair, our team jumped at the chance to help our FFA and other ag-related groups learn through experience.

    Last week, the Ag Career Expo started in the early morning at Landmark Park as about 700 students arrived from all across the region, pouring in on yellow buses.

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  26. Threat at CHS prompts lockdown, OPD launch investigation

    By Christina Faulkner

    The Ozark Police Department is investigating a disturbing social media post alleging a planned school shooting at Carroll High School. The post was reported to authorities by Ozark City School administrators.

    In response to the threat, law enforcement has placed Carroll High School on lockdown to ensure the safety of students and staff. Investigators are working diligently to identify the source of the post and are coordinating with state and federal agencies to conduct a thorough investigation.

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  27. 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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  28. 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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  29. Lt. Dan Band rocks Fort Novosel: A day of community, music, and mission

    By Travis Parker

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  30. 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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  31. 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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  32. Ozark gets its groove (and grub) on at 18th Annual Crawdad Festival

    By Caitlyn Cummings

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  33. 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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  34. 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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  35. 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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  36. Alabama SB110 Clears Senate After Weight Limit Removed; Counties Still Cautious

    By Caitlyn Cummings

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

    By Travis Parker 

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  38. 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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  39. 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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  40. 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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  41. New Promise Foundation brings hope to Wiregrass cancer patients

    By Caitlyn Cummings

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  42. 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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  43. 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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  44. 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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  45. 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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