Students from Dothan Tech’s Graphic Design, Building Construction, and Pre-Engineering programs have turned classroom lessons into a real-world community feature with the installation of two interactive maze games at Gussie McMillian Park.
The projects—Bee-A-Mazed and FlutterFinder—were designed and built by students throughout the semester, combining creativity, engineering, and construction skills into hands-on learning experiences. The collaborative effort allowed students to see their ideas come to life while giving back to the community.
Visitors to the park are encouraged to stop by, explore the mazes, and check out the impressive work these students have accomplished right here in Dothan.
A Fort Walton Beach firefighter is mourning the devastating loss of his wife just days after the birth of their daughter.
Crysta Renee Leonard delivered a healthy baby girl, Marlow Blake, on Saturday evening, December 13. Shortly after delivery, Crysta experienced severe medical complications that required emergency surgery. Despite extensive medical efforts, she passed away Monday morning, December 15.
Her husband, David Leonard, serves as a firefighter with the Fort Walton Beach Fire Department.
In a heartfelt statement shared by family, David described the emotional whirlwind of the past few days.
“These past few days have been confusing, happy, sad, beautiful and miserable,” David wrote. “There was not a more undeserving person for this to happen to.”
In a message addressed to his late wife, David shared a promise to honor her memory through their daughter.
“Crysta don’t you worry, our baby girl will always know, love and celebrate you. We will let you guide us down this journey we are about to face. I love you always and forever.”
David’s sister, Ashley Cunningham, has organized a GoFundMe campaign to help support the family as they navigate the unexpected loss.
“David and family will be learning to navigate this journey in a way they never expected,” Cunningham wrote. “Being out of work, caring for baby Marlow, and facing medical bills along with everyday expenses can be overwhelming, especially during such a profound loss.”
HOW TO HELP
Those wishing to support the Leonard family may contribute through the following:
“Any donation—no matter the amount—will make a meaningful difference,” Cunningham said. “If you are unable to give financially, please keep this precious family in your thoughts and prayers.
A homicide investigation is underway after a person was shot and killed Sunday evening in Marianna.
According to the Marianna Police Department, officers were called to the Gibbs Apartment Complex around 5:20 p.m. following reports of a person who had been shot multiple times.
Officers attempted lifesaving measures at the scene, but the victim was pronounced dead.
No additional details have been released, and the investigation remains ongoing.
Anyone with information is urged to contact the Marianna Police Department at 850-526-3125, Chipola Crime Stoppers at 850-526-5000, or toll-free at 888-804-8494. Tips may also be submitted online through Chipola Crime Stoppers. Tipsters may remain anonymous.
The Dothan City Schools Board of Education is scheduled to vote Tuesday night on a district-wide plan presented by Superintendent Dr. Garrick Askew.
According to Askew, the plan outlines initiatives aimed at improving student success and addressing key challenges within the school system.
Askew said the focus of the proposal is centered entirely on serving students in Dothan City Schools.
“There is nothing in this plan that doesn’t serve Dothan students,” Askew said.
The plan follows the release of Askew’s first 100-day report in November, which identified three primary areas of concern: literacy, classroom consistency, and staffing support.
As part of the process, Askew requested feedback from parents and community members to help shape the direction of the district.
“The community has eyes that you don’t have,” Askew said. “They see things, hear things, and know things that you may not necessarily be aware of. That feedback helps make the district better.”
The proposed plan includes initiatives focused on improving reading and math instruction, enhancing classroom resources, and addressing student behavior concerns.
If approved by the board, Askew said families could begin seeing changes implemented as early as summer 2027.
HOUSTON COUNTY: Oh well, please take notice this IS NOT a good idea!!!
On April 14, 2025 a Houston County Sheriff Deputy, while on weekly patrol, arrested William Henry Bowman III for DUI. The Deputy ran Mr. Bowman on the drunk machine, AKA Intoxilizer. The reading on the drunk machine Mr. Bowman was alleged to have had a score of.16% BAC. In Alabama you are considered drunk from .08 and above.
On October 3, 2025 there are allegations Mr. Bowman committed the offense of Domestic Violence – Strangulation. The allegations are Mr. Bowman placed his hands around the victims throat causing the victim to not be able to breath.
Well, Mr. Bowman had court for the DUI before Houston County District Court Judge Benjamin Lewis. Well, Judge Lewis does not drink so he can smell alcohol. When Mr. Bowman was unsteady on his feet, and he smelled alcohol, Judge Lewis is reported to have asked Mr. Bowman if he had been drinking.
Mr. Bowman’s luck is not real good. Today was traffic trials and many ALEA – Troopers were present in court. Judge Lewis asked one of the ALEA – Troopers to check Mr. Bowman for alcohol. According to people in court the reading was .20. Mr. Bowman replied “that’s crazy”.
Well, Judge Lewis apparently thought that was cow manure. Judge Lewis then ordered Mr. Bowman be taken into custody for Contempt of Court. So Mr. Bowman’s new address, at least until Friday, is 901 East Main Street, Dothan Alabama, AKA Houston County Jail!!!
