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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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