1. Ozark celebrates Black History Month with events throughout February

    By Christina Faulkner

    During the City Council Meeting on Tuesday, February 16, Mayor Mark Blankenship officially declared February as Black History Month in the City of Ozark. Joined by community members, the proclamation marked the beginning of a month-long celebration honoring the contributions of African Americans locally, in the Wiregrass region, and across the nation. Mayor Blankenship encouraged citizens to actively participate in various activities recognizing African Americans, both past and present.

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  2. Attempted murder suspect apprehended: Daleville Police investigate shooting incident

    Staff Reports

    An investigation into an incident that occurred Thursday in Daleville is underway by the Daleville Department of Public Safety. The event left a male subject recovering from multiple gunshot wounds and led to the arrest of another on attempted murder charges, says Daleville DPS Director and Chief of Police John Crawford.

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  3. Dale County and Ozark City Schools collaborate to bring "Singin' in the Rain" to the stage

    By Christina Faulkner

    Dale County and Ozark City Schools have united to present the classic musical, "Singin' in the Rain," at the Flowers Center for the Performing Arts. Spearheaded by the talented Margie Benson of Wish Upon a Star, this collaboration ensures a captivating experience for the communities involved.

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  4. Inspirational community celebration commemorates Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr’s birthday in Ozark

    By Christina Faulkner

    The City of Ozark recently came together at Matthews-Scippio Academy to honor the enduring legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Monday, January 15. The event, organized by the Ozark-Dale County Ministerial Alliance, saw prominent community leaders, City Council members, and school board representatives gathering to celebrate Dr. King's profound message of hope and equality.

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  5. Fort Novosel MWR Director retires after fulfilling 45-year career

    By Brittany Trumbull, Fort Novosel Public Affairs

    Fort Novosel – A stalwart of Fort Novosel, Program Director for Morale, Welfare, and Recreation, Evy Bludsworth of Ozark hangs up her many hats after serving families over 45 years.

    The year was 1978, nearly all active-duty soldiers on Fort Novosel were yet to be born, and Bludsworth applied for her first position on what was then Fort Rucker.

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  6. Ozark City School Board Members Honored During Annual Recognition Month

    By Christina Faulkner

    January marks the 31st Annual School Board Member Recognition Month in Alabama, a time when public education supporters statewide come together to applaud the commendable service of over 800 school board members dedicated to enhancing education in their communities. Recently, both Ozark City Schools and Dale County Board of Education took a moment to honor their respective school board members.

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  7. Standoff ends without incident

    By Christina Faulkner

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  8. Nick Saban Announces Retirement after 17 Seasons at Alabama

    Editor’s Note: Reprinted from Rolltide.com.

    TUSCALOOSA – Alabama's Nick Saban, who has won more college football national championships than any coach in the modern era, announced his retirement on Wednesday.

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  9. Ozark City Schools 2023 report card: A comprehensive overview and vision for the future

    By Christina Faulkner

    The Ozark City Schools district received a B for the third consecutive year, with a score of 83 aligned with the state average. Superintendent Reeivice Girtman, while pleased with the overall performance, expressed a continual commitment to growth and improvement.

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  10. Wiregrass United Way celebrates exceeding fundraising goals

    By Christina Faulkner

    On Thursday, January 4, an atmosphere of excitement filled the WUW offices in Dothan as Wiregrass United Way Chief Executive Officer Walter Hill, Trae Avant, and Dean Mitchell gathered to make a significant announcement.

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  11. City of Ozark pledges vigilance and collaboration against exploitation in declaring Human Trafficking Awareness Month

    By Christina Faulkner

    The City of Ozark has taken a proactive stance in the fight against human trafficking, officially designating January 2024 as Human Trafficking Awareness Month. This critical declaration underscores the municipality's dedication to combating human trafficking and fostering a community that is well-informed and secure.

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  12. Dale County Extension Eggs-cels in 2024: Flocking Together for Success

    Submitted by County Extension Coordinator Melissa Voynich

    With well wishes for the start of the new year, the Dale County Extension team returned to the office post-holiday with exciting plans for a successful 2024.

    Their motivation for this year is to be, “one resource with many solutions for life’s everyday challenges.”

    As they strive to tackle challenges, the team finds ample success in the region that deserves acknowledgment.

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  13. Local martial arts school celebrates fifth anniversary

    By Caitlyn Cummings

    Refuge Martial Arts in Ozark celebrated its fifth anniversary this week. Run by Chad Hamm, a 4th-degree Black Belt in taekwondo, and his wife, PJ Hamm, the martial arts studio offers a diverse range of classes, including Taekwondo, Brazilian Jiu-jitsu, and self-defense for people of all ages in abilities in a positive, encouraging environment.

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  14. Ozark Department of Public Safety reflects on 2023 achievements and looks ahead to 2024

    By Christina Faulkner

    As 2023 drew to a close, Charles Ward, Director of the Ozark Department of Public Safety and Chief of Police, took a moment to review the accomplishments of the department and share insights into the plans for the coming year.

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  15. Ozark Military Affairs Committee plans for 2024

    By Travis Parker

    The Military Affairs Committee of the Ozark Chamber of Commerce convened for its fourth meeting on December 15, reflecting on accomplished initiatives and setting sights on upcoming projects. Led by Committee Head Will Haddon, the committee's overarching mission is to determine effective ways to honor active duty and retired military members, veterans, and their families.

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  16. Dedicated banker Ann Dora Garner retires after 44 years with Commercial Bank of Ozark

    By Christina Faulkner

    In a poignant moment of transition, Ann Dora Garner, an esteemed figure at Commercial Bank of Ozark, steps into a well-deserved retirement, leaving behind a legacy that spans 44 years. Garner's association with the bank began in 1967 when she assumed the role of a bookkeeper under the ownership of the bank's founder, Douglas Brown. Over the years, her journey evolved, and her impact became synonymous with the bank's enduring success.

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  17. All In Credit Union to acquire certain branches of 22nd State Bank

    Staff Reports 

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  18. No. 4 Alabama falls to No. 1 Michigan in overtime, 27-20, in CFP Semifinal

    Pasadena, CA. - The No. 1 Michigan Wolverines defeated No. 4 Alabama in overtime, 27-20, in the College Football Playoff Semifinal at the Rose Bowl on New Year's Day.

    The contest was evenly matched in most every category, with the Crimson Tide racking up 288 total yards of offense and possessing the ball for 32:19 while the Wolverines finished with 351 total yards and 27:41 possession.

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  19. Ozark Airport Blackwell Field manager honored with prestigious FAA award

    By Christina Faulkner

    Each year, the Federal Aviation Administration Southern Region Airports Division recognizes outstanding achievements in airports and their managers, highlighting their commitment to enhancing airport safety and overall excellence in aviation. This year, Ozark Airport Blackwell Field Manager Denise Ellis received the esteemed title of General Aviation Airport Manager of the Year for the Southeast Regional Airports Division.

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  20. Chalkerhaus Adventure Co: Daleville's newest outdoor haven and family legacy

    By Travis Parker

    As Daleville Mayor Jayme Stayton prefaced his welcome to the attendees at the Chamber of Commerce Ribbon Cutting for the new Chalkerhaus Adventure Company, the Chalker family has been a part of the history of Daleville for a long time. Stayton discussed the exclusive availability of numerous items in the store that cannot be found anywhere else in the Wiregrass area. During the Facebook Live Stream, he urged viewers to visit and experience it firsthand.

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  21. The promise of a tribute: Ariton's bus terminal advances toward transformation

    By Christina Faulkner

    The Dale County Commission took a significant step forward in preserving local history by approving an IAC (Investing in Alabama Counties) review for the renovation and restoration of the old Greyhound bus terminal in Ariton. The potential funding source for this project could come from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds, as suggested by County Commission Chairman Steve McKinnon. However, he recommended a thorough review by the Association of County Commissions of Alabama’s IAC Program for verification.

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  22. Community mourns tragic loss: Ozark Police Captain’s parents perish in house fire

    Staff Reports

    In a devastating turn of events, Captain Glenn Peters, the Bureau Chief of Police Services at the Ozark Department of Public Safety Police Department, is grappling with the heartbreaking loss of both his parents, Junior Glenn Peters and Mary Peters, in an early Thursday morning house fire. The tragedy unfolded at 171 Dale County Road 229, prompting an urgent response from multiple fire departments and first responders dispatched by Ozark-Dale County 911 at 3:07 a.m.

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  23. Shining a light on homelessness in Ozark and Dale County

    By Christina Faulkner

    As the Christmas season filled many homes with warmth and joy, approximately half a million individuals across the U.S. confronted the holidays without shelter. This diverse face of homelessness includes families with children, veterans, the elderly, and those battling mental health disorders and addictions.

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  24. Ozark City Schools Board of Education celebrates achievements and addresses safety concerns

    By Christina Faulkner

    The Ozark City Schools Board of Education convened for their final meeting of the year at Carroll High School's cafeteria on Thursday, December 14, for an evening filled with recognition and updates on various achievements within the school system.

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  25. Sounds of the Season: Dale County's Annual Christmas Concert unites community in musical celebration

    By Christina Faulkner

    The Christmas spirit resounded through Dale County and the City of Ozark as the community gathered for the much-anticipated annual event, Sounds of the Season at the Ozark Civic Center on Tuesday, December 12. This collaborative Christmas concert, a culmination of musical and dance talents, showcased the creativity and dedication of Dale County students and choirs from six schools and two organizations.

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  26. RC&D grant for power stretchers boosts Ozark EMS emergency services

    By Christina Faulkner

    In a significant step towards enhancing emergency medical services in Ozark, the city recently secured a Resource Conservation and Development grant from Wiregrass RC&D amounting to $74,040. The grant will be instrumental in replacing outdated manual stretcher systems with cutting-edge power stretchers, providing a safer and more efficient transportation system for both patients and emergency personnel.

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  27. Two Wiregrass communities voted among seven of the most welcoming towns in Alabama

    Staff Reports

    Ozark and Enterprise were two of the seven small towns in Alabama voted as the most welcoming small towns in Alabama according to an article by Marc Beckstead and published on WorldAtlas.com. Below is a reprint of Beckstead’s article.

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  28. Planning a big Extension year in 2024

    Submitted by County Extension Coordinator Melissa Voynich

    Ozark, Al. – December 18, 2023 – Dale County Extension staff completed their planning for the 2024 calendar year after several months of surveying and discussion with community members and regional agents.

    A diverse and lengthy list of offerings is always available on http://aces.edu through the calendar function, as well as through their local Facebook page and newsletter.

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  29. Annual Ozark Parade boasts over 100 entries; delights spectators

    By Christina Faulkner

    The Ozark Kiwanis Club and the City of Ozark hosted the annual Ozark Christmas Parade and tree lighting ceremony on Tuesday, December 5. With over 100 entries this year’s parade was the largest Christmas parade Ozark has ever seen. Spectators, most especially the young, were delighted with the floats, characters, candy, and joy of Christmas shared through the evening!

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  30. Daleville's Christmas Parade shines through rainy setback for a festive night of joy and community spirit

    By Travis Parker

    Daleville, AL - Mother Nature may have brought rain to the Wiregrass, causing a delay, but it didn't dampen the holiday spirit in Daleville. On Friday, December 8, the Daleville Area Chamber of Commerce successfully hosted a vibrant Christmas Parade along with a heartwarming Tree Lighting Ceremony that brought the community together in the true spirit of the season.

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  31. Recognizing excellence in Alabama's EMS system: Ozark's Elaine Culp receives prestigious Lifetime Service Award

    By Christina Faulkner

    In the heart of Alabama's Emergency Medical Services (EMS) system, individuals go above and beyond, making invaluable contributions that often go unnoticed. However, a recent event highlighted and celebrated these unsung heroes, with Ozark's Deputy Director of EMS, Elaine Culp, receiving the esteemed Lifetime Service Award.

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  32. Local Business benefits from state incentives policy, receives final payout at city council meeting

    By Christina Faulkner

    In a testament to the symbiotic relationship between local businesses and economic development initiatives, Loose Brick Coffee Co. recently marked a significant milestone by receiving its final payout of a tax rebate. The payout was part of a strategic plan formulated under the state's Incentives Policy, aimed at fostering economic growth in Alabama municipalities and counties.

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  33. Alabama Sports Hall of Fame honors Randy Kennedy with the 2024 Mel Allen Media Award

    Staff Reports

    BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – The Board of Directors of the State of Alabama Sports Hall of Fame is proud to announce that Randy Kennedy will be recognized as the 2024 Mel Allen Media Award recipient at the 56th Annual Induction Banquet and Ceremony on Saturday, May 4, 2024.

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  34. Daleville High School counselor earns prestigious national award

    By Travis Parker

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  35. Daleville Police Department spreads holiday cheer with Inaugural Angel Tree program

    By Christina Faulkner

    The Daleville Police Department is bringing warmth and joy to the community this holiday season with its inaugural Angel Tree program. Inspired by a deep commitment to serve and protect, the DPD has initiated this heartwarming endeavor to make a difference in the lives of families facing financial challenges during the festive season.

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  36. Ozark City Schools announces Phase I of improvements to historic Matthews Stadium

    By Christina Faulkner

    At a regularly scheduled Ozark City Schools Board of Education meeting, the OCS Board approved a project bid to begin renovations at Matthews Stadium. The renovations include new LED lighting, an improved sound system, and larger and more advanced scoreboard and video board. 

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  37. Enterprise Annual Tree Lighting transforms into festive spectacle

    By Travis Parker

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  38. Alabama upsets Georgia, 27-24, to capture 30th SEC Championship

    ATLANTA - The No. 8/8/8 Alabama football team secured a 27-24 upset win over No. 1/1/1 Georgia Saturday afternoon inside Mercedes-Benz Stadium. With the win, the Crimson Tide (12-1) secured the program's 30th Southeastern Conference Championship and the ninth under head coach Nick Saban.

    Quarterback Jalen Milroe was named the game's Most Valuable Player after leading the team to its 11th consecutive victory. Milroe finished the contest with 221 total yards including 192 through the air on 13-of-23 passing and a pair of touchdowns.

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  39. Ozark Community unites for heartwarming Thanksgiving Feast

    By Christina Faulkner

    In a heartwarming display of community spirit, Ozark residents came together for a massive Thanksgiving feast organized by the Ozark Baptist Church at the Ozark Civic Center and various distribution points across the city on Thursday, November 23. Dr. Phil Sims, the founder of the Community Thanksgiving Dinner, led a team of over 150 volunteers and coordinated efforts with 18 churches and organizations to ensure a memorable Thanksgiving for those in need.

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  40. A Thanksgiving Tradition on Ft. Novosel

    By Travis Parker

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  41. Chopper’s and The Craft provide Thanksgiving meals for the public

    By Travis Parker

    Two restaurants in the Wiregrass shared the spirit of Thanksgiving by “feeding the masses – Wiregrass style.” Choppers Ol’ School BBQ in Daleville and The Craft Bar & Grill in Enterprise each hosted complimentary Thanksgiving Day meals for the public. Between the two restaurants over 2,000 individuals were fed.

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  42. Brightening futures: Ozark City Schools' 9th Annual Holiday Bazaar benefits at-risk students

    Staff Report

    Ozark City Schools is gearing up for a day of festive cheer with its 9th Annual Winter Wonderland Holiday Bazaar on Friday, December 8. The event, held at the Carroll High School Practice Gym, promises a day filled with holiday fun and shopping, and it is open to the public.

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  43. Late-game heroics lead Alabama to 27-24 victory at Auburn

    AUBURN, Ala. - Alabama quarterback Jalen Milroe threw a touchdown pass to Isaiah Bond with 32 seconds left to lift the No. 8/8/8 Crimson Tide football team to a 27-24 victory over Auburn Saturday afternoon in Jordan-Hare Stadium.

    With the Tide (11-1, 8-0 SEC) trailing 24-20 and facing 4th-and-31, Milroe found Bond for a game-winning 31-yard score to snatch the victory away from the Tigers (6-6, 3-5 SEC).

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  44. Collaborative celebrations mark Farm-City Week in Dale County and Ozark

    By Christina Faulkner 

    Dale County and the City of Ozark recently united in a collaborative celebration of Farm-City Week, highlighting the crucial partnership between rural and urban communities. The festivities commenced with a joint proclamation signed by Dale County Commissioner Steve McKinnon and Ozark City Mayor Mark Blankenship during the City Council Meeting on November 7. The proclamation declared November 17-23 as Farm-City Week in Ozark and Dale County.

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  45. Crosby Boy Scout Memorial Pathway unveiled at Vivian B. Adams School

    By Christina Faulkner

    The first brick in the Dr. G. Robert “Bob” Crosby Boy Scout Memorial Pathway at Vivian B. Adams School was laid on Friday, November 17. The ongoing project incorporates an existing Eagle Scout Project completed by VBAS Eagle Scout, Tony Walker, and is designed to enhance the appearance of the school campus by paving the front garden area with bricks personalized with the names of friends and supporters.

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