CONTACT: Vincent P. Vincent, Community Relations Officer, 334-615-3117 Dothan Prepares for America 250
The City of Dothan began preparations for America’s semi quincentennial celebration in the fall of 2025. Dothan has been recognized as an Alabama 250 City and is part of the greater, statewide, committee to honor our nation’s 250th anniversary.
To honor America, the City of Dothan is installing patriotic banners along Main Street as well as Foster Street and Saint Andrews Street (see photos included).
The city will host several events regarding the semi quincentennial throughout this year, culminating with a grand event on July 4th in downtown Dothan. The event on July 4th will end with a large drone show over downtown Dothan. Please look for upcoming information regarding this and other events relating to the birth of our nation.
Dale County Sheriff Mason Bynum is speaking out following the introduction of Alabama’s proposed Child Predator Death Penalty Act, a bill that would allow the death penalty for certain crimes involving sexual abuse of children.
Sheriff Bynum said protecting children is one of the most important responsibilities for law enforcement and emphasized that predators who harm children must face serious consequences.
“Anytime you’re dealing with crimes against children, those are some of the most disturbing cases our investigators handle,” Bynum said. “Our job is to protect the most vulnerable members of our community, and children fall at the top of that list.”
The proposed legislation would strengthen penalties for individuals convicted of severe child sexual abuse crimes and could allow prosecutors to pursue capital punishment in certain cases.
Bynum said while lawmakers ultimately decide how the law is written, his office will continue focusing on investigating cases thoroughly and ensuring offenders are held accountable.
“Our investigators work tirelessly on these cases,” Bynum said. “Anything that helps protect children and hold offenders accountable is something we take seriously.”
The bill is currently under consideration in the Alabama Legislature.
The Dale County Sheriff’s Office is inviting the community out for two nights of rodeo action this weekend.
The Dale County Sheriff’s Rodeo will take place March 6–7 at the Dale County Ag Plex Arena, located at 202 AL-123 in Ozark. Gates will open each evening at 5:00 p.m.
The event will feature several traditional rodeo competitions including steer wrestling, saddle bronc riding, break-away roping, team roping, bull riding, barrel racing, calf roping, and bareback riding.
The rodeo is sanctioned by the Professional Cowboy Association (PCA) and promises two nights of high-energy entertainment for the whole family.
Organizers encourage residents across the Wiregrass to come out and support the event while enjoying an evening of rodeo competition and community fun.
Hidden Lake Elementary welcomed some special guests during Read Across America Week. Officer Volkman with the Dothan Police Department, Travis Fretts with the Dothan Fire Department, and former Miss National Peanut Festival Jakia Pearson stopped by Ms. Jones’ classroom to spend time reading with students and encouraging a love for books.
National Slam the Scam Day is a reminder for the public to recognize, avoid, and report scammers who are looking for an easy payday.
Officials warn residents to be cautious of emails, phone calls, or messages asking you to enter personal information, passwords, or financial details. Scammers often create a sense of urgency to pressure victims into acting quickly.
Remember, no legitimate government agency will ever ask you to pay fines or fees using Bitcoin, gift cards, or other unusual payment methods.
If something feels suspicious, pause and verify before taking action.