By Jane C. Bloodworth,

SMS Media Manager

We’ve all heard of “Service Dogs,” but did you know there are dogs that are specially trained to work in schools? D. A. Smith Middle School is proud to introduce Fancy Pants, SMS’ very own Facility Dog!

By Christina Faulkner

On Wednesday, October 30, Dale County Sheriff Mason Bynum swore in 15 Mental Health Officers from six local law enforcement agencies during a ceremony at the Dale County Courthouse. This initiative aims to enhance the county's response to mental health crises, providing vital support during challenging times.

By Christina Faulkner

Murder suspect, Marcus Slater of Ozark, surrendered Friday, November 12 to Ozark Police officers. According to a Deputy Chief Michael Bryan, Slater, accompanied by his attorney, voluntarily turned himself in at the Ozark Police Department where he was processed before being transported to the Dale County Jail later that evening.

By Christina Faulkner

A welfare check in Midland City on Sunday morning led to a murder investigation, ending with the arrest of a recently released convict, who authorities say is responsible for the brutal killing. James Albert Johnson Jr., a 29-year-old former inmate recently released from the Florida Department of Corrections, now faces murder charges after evidence linked him to the crime.

By Christina Faulkner

The Dale County Farm-City Committee, local government officials, and community members embarked on a Farm-City Tour of Ozark, showcasing how agriculture, industry, and urban development intertwine to benefit the county’s economy and residents on Monday, November 18. Departing from the historic Holman House, the tour highlighted places vital to uniting farmers and urban consumers, emphasizing that one cannot thrive without the other.

By Travis Parker

Ozark, Alabama, a city with deep ties to the military and a proud history of honoring its veterans, has welcomed back a significant piece of its past—the M60 Patton tank. This symbol of American military strength returns to the city thanks to a dedicated effort to celebrate Ozark’s military heritage and recognize its connection to the 131st Armored Tank Battalion.

Press Release

Ozark - Dunham’s Sports® is excited to announce the official Grand Opening of its Ozark store on Friday, November 22.  Dunham’s would like to invite residents of Ozark and the surrounding communities to our Grand Opening weekend.  The new store, located at 1177 Andrews Avenue near the Tractor Supply store will bring up to 40 new full-time and part-time jobs to the community.   Store hours are Monday–Saturday, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.  

Submitted by Melissa Voynich, County Extension Coordinator

It is the season of Farm-City celebration, and the Southern Star is featuring our award winners across several weeks of publication. Part One was printed last week.

The following write-ups were delivered during the Farm City Banquet. Happy Thanksgiving!

Jacob and Aisling Walding were honored as the Young and Beginning Farmers of the Year, an award presented by ALFA in recognition of their dedication to agriculture.

By Caitlyn Cummings

Charlotte Smith, retired Lisenby principal and current director of the new ONEeagle Foundation, was the featured speaker at the Ozark Rotary Club meeting on November 19.

Ozark needs everyone. As the old saying goes, “It takes a village to raise a child,” and everyone is a stakeholder in the future generations of Ozark. The ONEeagle Foundation seeks to uphold the vision and priorities of Ozark City Schools through partnerships, service to the community, and enrichment of the educational experience of students and staff.