Spending bill delivers economic relief to farmers amid crisis

By Christina Faulkner

A critical spending bill aimed at providing economic relief to struggling farmers was recently signed into law, offering a much-needed lifeline to the agricultural community. The legislation, driven by bipartisan support and intense advocacy, allocates $10 billion in direct aid to farmers grappling with financial challenges stemming from soaring input costs, high interest rates, and declining commodity prices.

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Chris Carroll takes on new leadership role with Alabama Farmers Federation

By Christina Faulkner

Dale County Commissioner and longtime farmer Chris Carroll has been elected Southeast Area Vice President of the Alabama Farmers Federation, stepping into a prominent role that underscores his commitment to agriculture and community leadership. Carroll’s election took place during the federation’s annual meeting held December 8-9 in Montgomery.

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Ozark neighborhood on edge as vicious dogs terrorize cats and property

By Christina Faulkner

Two emaciated pit bulls are causing chaos in an Ozark neighborhood, leaving a trail of destruction and dead cats in their wake. These nocturnal predators have been seen on security cameras prowling after midnight, chasing and killing cats—both feral and pets. But their victims are not consumed; instead, the dogs kill for sport, leaving the lifeless bodies, bruised and marked with teeth marks, behind and moving on.

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Dale County School System earns 'A' grade on state report card

By Christina Faulkner

The Alabama State Department of Education has released its annual report card data, assigning letter grades to schools and districts across the state. Dale County Schools earned an impressive "A" for the 2023–2024 school year, reaffirming its position as one of Alabama’s top-performing county school systems.

Over the past eight years, Dale County Schools has achieved the highest performance among county systems three times. This year, the district ranked as the second-highest scoring county system, trailing only Geneva County Schools.

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Happy New Year!

Submitted by County Extension Coordinator Melissa Voynich

We are excited to begin 2025 with some suggestions for health and wellness.

Choose Your Favorite Citrus - Citrus season is here in Alabama! Enjoy fresh, juicy fruits oranges, grapefruit, lemons, and clementines packed with vitamins and flavor. Not only are they delicious, but they’re also loaded with Vitamin C to boost your immune system and fiber to keep you feeling full.

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DCCAH and Rudd Art Center unveil 25th Anniversary Art Exhibition calendar

Special to The Southern Star

Mark your calendars as the Dale County Council of the Arts and Humanities (DCCAH) and the Ann Rudd Art Center celebrate their 25th anniversary. The two organizations will commemorate this milestone with a year-long series of events, starting with the Silver Jubilee Gala on January 11. This free evening of pageantry and celebration is open to the public and will kick off at 6:00 p.m. at the Rudd Art Center, located at 144 Broad Street in Ozark.

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ODEDC invests in growth, charting ambitious course for 2025

By Christina Faulkner

Economic development in Ozark and Dale County is gaining momentum, and the future looks bright as the Ozark-Dale County Economic Development Corporation (ODEDC), led by President Holle Smith, charts an ambitious course for 2025. From attracting new industries to supporting local businesses, ODEDC is working to make the area a hub of opportunity and growth.

"Ozark and Dale County have a lot to be optimistic about as we move into 2025," Smith stated.

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Pitbull caught, finds safety at Ozark shelter

By Christina Faulkner

One of the two pit bulls that had been causing concern in an Ozark neighborhood has been captured and is now safe at the Ozark Animal Shelter. The dog, named Harley by Ozark Animal Control, is not the aggressive animal that many had feared, but rather a sweet and docile creature, who had been misjudged due to the circumstances in which she found herself.

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Rep. Steve Clouse announces bid for re-election

By Christina Faulkner

Ozark’s veteran lawmaker Rep. Steve Clouse has officially announced his decision to seek another term in the Alabama House of Representatives in 2026. With a political career dating back to 1994, Clouse brings over three decades of experience to the table, which he believes will continue to benefit the citizens of Dale and Houston counties if voters grant him another term.

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Ann Rudd Art Center hosts Silver Jubilee Gala

By Caitlyn Cummings

The Ann Rudd Art Center hosted a well-attended Silver Jubilee Gala on January 11, celebrating 25 years of both the Dale County Council of Arts and Humanities and the Dowling Museum/Ann Rudd Art Center. The event featured an impressive display of art from the gallery’s permanent collection—spanning two and a half decades of pieces donated or purchased by the Council.

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Eastgate Gym reopens with ribbon-cutting celebration

By Christina Faulkner

Ozark Parks and Recreation celebrated the grand re-opening of the Eastgate basketball gym, a long-awaited renovation that promises to serve as a central hub for sports and community engagement on Monday, January 6. The grand re-opening was attended by community members and officials, all coming together to mark the transformation of the gym into a modern facility that will benefit Ozark for years to come.

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Ozark Fire Department recognizes outstanding firefighters

By Christina Faulkner

Ozark emergency services personnel gathered recently to honor and celebrate their own, recognizing individuals who have gone above and beyond in their dedication to the community and the fire department. Two standout members of the Ozark Fire Department, Battalion Chief Jud Steed and Sergeant Tyler Miller, were recognized for their exceptional service, leadership, and commitment.

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Kevin Turley announces run for Daleville Mayor

By Travis Parker 

The year 2024 brought significant national and statewide elections. As we move into 2025, local elections are on the horizon. Stay tuned to the Southern Star for updates on these elections and the key issues that could impact you, your family, and your livelihood. 

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Mayor focuses on workforce development, infrastructure, and housing in 2025

By Christina Faulkner

Ozark Mayor Mark Blankenship has set his sights on ambitious plans for the city in 2025, focusing on three primary goals: developing a new sports complex, enhancing retail growth, and improving recreational facilities. These initiatives align with the city’s long-term strategic vision and aim to strengthen the local economy and community engagement.

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Local high schools collaborate to present Broadway classic ‘Funny Girl’ this February

By Brandy Hilboldt

Ozark City and Dale County Schools will showcase a joint production of the classic musical Funny Girl at the Flowers Center for the Performing Arts on February 25, 27, 28, and March 1. The beloved show tells the story of Fanny Brice, a real-life performer who became a star in the Ziegfeld Follies just before and after World War I. Known for her comedic talent, Fanny’s career and tumultuous marriage to entrepreneur and gambler Nicky Arnstein take center stage in this timeless production.

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Dale County CERT seeks volunteers to strengthen community emergency response

By Christina Faulkner

The Dale County Emergency Management Agency (EMA) Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) is calling on local residents to join their ranks and help build a stronger, more prepared community. CERT, a nationwide program under the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), provides critical training and resources to equip everyday citizens with the skills needed to respond effectively during disasters.

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Ozark Police officers honored for dedication and excellence

By Christina Faulkner

The Ozark Police Department celebrated the achievements of four exemplary officers who demonstrated outstanding performance and dedication throughout 2024. Recognizing their commitment to community engagement, mentorship, and leadership, the department presented four prestigious awards that reflect the values of effective policing and public service.

Heart of the Community Award

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Building trust and excellence in 2025: DPS Director’s vision for 2025

By Christina Faulkner

Since its inception on January 1, 2023, the Ozark Department of Public Safety (DPS) has been making significant strides in its mission to preserve life, protect property, and safeguard the community. Under the leadership of Director Charles Ward, the department has brought together police, fire, and emergency medical services into a unified structure. This innovative approach has not only enhanced efficiency but has also set a strong foundation for future growth.

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Trump sworn in as 47th President

Donald Trump is sworn in as the 47th US President in the US Capitol Rotunda in Washington, DC, on January 20, 2025. (Photo by SAUL LOEB / POOL /AFP) (Photo by SAUL LOEB/POOL/AFP via Getty Images, licensed to The Calais Advertiser, Inc.)

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Ozark mayor proclaims February as Black History Month

By Caitlyn Cummings

American history is incomplete without recognizing the struggles and triumphs of the Black people and communities that have helped shape the American experience. At the January 7 meeting of the Ozark City Council, Mayor Mark Blankenship declared February as Black History Month in Ozark.

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Fire takes the life of beloved firefighter

By Christina Faulkner

Tragedy struck the small town of Pinckard early Tuesday morning, January 23, when 37-year-old Caleb Green lost his life in a house fire. According to preliminary reports, Green may have fallen asleep while cooking on his stove, leaving it on and inadvertently causing the blaze. Other speculation suggested Green may have been using the stove to heat the home, as temperatures dropped to 28 degrees Tuesday morning.

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Historic snowfall brings joy, memories, and firsts

By Caitlyn Cummings

In a week that will be talked about for years to come, the Wiregrass was transformed by a historic snowfall, blanketing the region in a rare and shimmering layer of white.

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Library opens doors to homeless during historic winter storm

By Christina Faulkner

As freezing temperatures swept through the Wiregrass region, the Ozark Dale County Library extended a lifeline to those without shelter, offering warmth and support through its Homeless Connect program. Beginning Sunday, January 19, the library’s Bay Meeting Room became a refuge for individuals in need, staying open for six days due to the extreme cold.

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Historic snowfall brings Wiregrass to a standstill

By Roderick Petersen III

Starting Tuesday, January 21 the Wiregrass area experienced snowfall for the first time in over three years. With initial predictions expected to be between three to four inches, most businesses, along with local schools, closed for the day or closed early in preparation for the weather.   

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