By J.D. Devine

Dale County Pregnancy Center (DCPC) celebrated the opening of its new facilities with an open house held Tuesday, July 25. Members of the board of directors and staff greeted guests, served tasty refreshments, and provided tours of the new location.

By Christina Faulkner

What began as a homicide investigation into the death of a 27-year-old man in the Skipperville community ended as a tragic loss of life to a violent attack by up to six dogs. A home security surveillance video obtained by the Dale County Sheriff’s Office (DCSO) revealed that Demarcus “Sam” McKenzie II, of Skipperville, was mauled by up to six dogs as he left a home on County Road 33 early Saturday morning, July 29.

Submitted by County Extension Coordinator Melissa Voynich

Dale County Extension 4-H recently wrapped up summer with a Camplify! day program for local youth.

The camp was held at the Extension office in the Dale County Government Building, and participants could register at no cost.

Theme days included Art Day, STEM Day, Nature Day, and a crowd-favorite Cooking Day.

By Christina Faulkner

With college campuses, hospitals, and even churches across the nation preparing for the potential of an active shooter, local college campuses are looking at those preparations as well. The Alabama Aviation Technical Training Center will become the site of a simulated active shooter exercise this month.

Collaborating with Campus Police at the Alabama Aviation College, Dale County EMA Director Willie Worsham and area law enforcement began planning for the Live Active Shooter Training several months ago. 

By Christina Faulkner

Staff Reports

Superintendent Reeivice L. Girtman honored two outstanding individuals at the Ozark City Schools Institute on August 1. The ONEeagle Award is the first of its kind, named after the school system’s slogan ‘Ozark Needs Everyone.’ The award is dedicated to encouraging and rewarding staff and community members who are committed to serving the community. 

By Christina Faulkner

A legal battle over the ownership of two power stretchers has finally reached its conclusion as District Judge Kimberly Crawford ruled in favor of the towns of Pinckard and Napier Field, settling a dispute that has spanned several months. The case revolved around the rightful ownership of the power stretchers, which were initially procured using Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act funds.

By Christina Faulkner

Three dedicated employees were bestowed with Certificates of Excellence for their commendable efforts in managing the summer food program at Autrey Recreation Center during the Ozark City Council meeting held Tuesday, August 15. Victoria Shaw, Clara Fryer, and Mechelle Phillips were hailed for their exceptional record-keeping prowess, ensuring the success of the Break for a Plate Summer initiative.

By Christina Faulkner

Dale Medical Center's CEO, Vernon Johnson, took a resolute step in fostering community growth and educational advancement as he presented a generous $5,000 check to Ozark City Schools during the recent board meeting held on August 17. The donation signifies the first installment of a three-part commitment from Dale Medical Center (DMC) to bolster the development of the new Career Exploration Center, slated for DA Smith Middle School.

Staff Reports

Thursday night marked the commencement of the high school football season with a clash between the 5A Eagles and the 7A Dothan Wolves. The Wolves proved to be an indomitable force on the field, securing an overwhelming victory with a final score of 59-14.

The opening minutes of the game saw the Eagles grappling to keep up with the Wolves' pace. The Wolves racked up a 23-point lead within the initial nine minutes of the game.

Submitted by County Extension Coordinator Melissa Voynich

Congratulations are in order for former Ariton 4-H student Isabella Hardwick, who won top prize in the annual Conservation Poster contest for Southeast Alabama (Area V) Association of Soil and Water (SEAACD).

Dale County Extension representatives were on hand as Hardwick’s name was announced at the SEAACD Annual Meeting, held at the Rodney J. Evans Memorial Civic Center in Florala on August 24.