HOUSTON COUNTY: 7:21 PM If you see a Houston County Sheriff Deputy tonight, you might want to take a second look.
Houston County Sheriff Donald Valenza has taken to the streets on Christmas Eve during his years as Sheriff. The Sheriff has been on routine patrol, responding to calls, to allow the Houston County Sheriff Deputies with little children to take care of their home duties to prepare for Christmas.
Sheriff Valenza, beginning as a Houston County Corrections Deputy, then promoting to a Deputy and rising in the ranks to Sheriff.
For the record, three things: (1) Sheriff Donald Valenza believes in family and attempts to allow Deputies to see their children in activities they might be involved in, (2) Sheriff Donald Valenza hits patrol every year, not just an election year, and (3) Sheriff Donald Valenza WILL SEEK RE-ELECTION in 2026 as Houston County Sheriff.
DOTHAN, Ala. (Rickey Stokes News) — One lane of a busy Dothan roadway is closed following a crash involving a motorcycle Tuesday afternoon.
According to initial information from law enforcement, the crash occurred around 1:30 p.m. on Columbia Highway when a motorcycle struck a deer.
The incident happened near the intersection of Columbia Highway and Eastland Road, where a portion of the eastbound lane remains closed at this time. Authorities have not released an estimated time for when the roadway will fully reopen.
Reports indicate the motorcyclist sustained injuries. The extent of those injuries has not been confirmed.
Rickey Stokes News has reached out to authorities for additional details. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
The holiday season brought smiles and special memories as officers with the Dothan Police Department took part in their annual Shop with a Cop event.
This year’s event allowed officers to spend time shopping with underserved youth from the Boys & Girls Club of Wiregrass, helping ensure the children experienced a memorable holiday season.
Officers assisted the children as they selected gifts, clothing, and other items, creating positive interactions while spreading holiday cheer throughout the community.
Police officials said Shop with a Cop is one of the most rewarding events of the year, giving officers the opportunity to give back and strengthen connections with local youth.
The Dothan Police Department thanked the Boys & Girls Club of Wiregrass and everyone involved for allowing them to help make the holidays brighter for the children.
🎭 Dothan Performing Arts Director Earns Prestigious National Certification
DOTHAN, Ala. (Rickey Stokes News)
The City of Dothan is celebrating a major professional achievement by Clay Dempsey, Performing Arts Director, who has earned the Certified Venue Professional (CVP) designation from the International Association of Venue Managers (IAVM).
The CVP designation is a nationally recognized credential awarded to mid-level venue management professionals who demonstrate excellence in operations, leadership, and a commitment to advancing the public venue industry. Candidates are evaluated on their professional experience and accomplishments and must successfully complete a comprehensive written examination covering all aspects of venue management.
City officials said the recognition reflects Dempsey’s dedication to professional growth, industry leadership, and the continued success of Dothan’s performing arts venues. His achievement not only advances his career, but also enhances the quality of performances and events offered to the community.
City leaders and colleagues are congratulating Dempsey on earning this prestigious designation and for his ongoing commitment to serving the public through the arts. 👏🎭
A man is in critical condition following a shooting that occurred Tuesday morning in Dale County, authorities confirmed.
Dale County Sheriff Mason Bynum said the shooting happened just before 10 a.m. during what has been described as a domestic dispute.
The incident took place in the Freedom Heights neighborhood off Rucker Boulevard in Level Plains.
The victim was airlifted from the scene to an area hospital, where he remains in critical condition.
Sheriff Bynum stated that there is no threat to the public at this time. It remains unclear whether any arrests have been made as the investigation continues.
Additional details are expected to be released as they become available.
The House of Ruth Inc. has received the largest share of a $1.1 million grant package awarded by Kay Ivey to support domestic violence victims across south Alabama.
House of Ruth was awarded $328,603 to continue providing emergency shelter, legal advocacy, and assistance to victims navigating both criminal and civil court systems. The funding will also help victims file compensation claims as they work toward rebuilding their lives.
The organization serves a wide area of southeast Alabama, including Barbour, Bullock, Coffee, Covington, Dale, Geneva, Henry, Houston, and Pike counties.
“Domestic violence has a destructive impact on families and communities, and victims need a place to turn in their time of greatest need,” Gov. Ivey said while announcing the grants. She emphasized that the funding supports organizations offering safety, healing, and access to justice for victims.
The grants are administered by the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs using funds provided by the U.S. Department of Justice.
ADECA Director Kenneth Boswell said the organizations receiving funding provide vital services that many victims depend on during times of crisis.
Additional grants were awarded to Penelope House Inc., Family Counseling Center of Mobile Inc., and Baldwin Family Violence Shelter, also known as The Lighthouse, to support domestic violence and victim assistance programs throughout south Alabama.
