The Southern Star

12/24/2025

The Southern Star is on newsstands and available online for digital subscribers, and this week’s issue is filled with stories that celebrate our community, our neighbors, and the spirit of the season.
Inside, we’re sharing how Ozark’s generosity once again powered Operation Santa Claus, bringing toys, joy, and hope to children and families throughout our city.
From blue to red and green, Ozark’s finest arrive with Christmas cheer as Officer Kaden Grogg and fellow officers dressed as elves to greet students at Lisenby and Mixon, spreading smiles, high fives, and hugs. Members of First United Methodist Church’s First Kids and Top Floor Youth Ministries hit the road to go caroling for first responders and residents, reminding us all what it means to share joy this time of year. Our Extension Buzz takes a festive turn with Dale County Extension’s “Twelve Days of Christmas,” a photo-filled look back at a year of service, learning, and community impact. Heroes’ Corner honors thousands of veterans across Coffee and Dale counties through Wiregrass Honor Wreaths and Wreaths Across America, as wreaths were laid in quiet tribute to those who served. And if you’re in the holiday baking mood, Felicia Farnsworth is serving up four days of Christmas treats, from no-bake cookies to classic Coca-Cola cake, perfect for sharing with family and friends.
You’ll also find our regular columns, letters, puzzles, obituaries, and more — all part of what makes your hometown paper a reflection of life in Ozark and Dale County.
Plus, don’t forget — the Christmas Greetings Section is inside this week’s issue, a special section you won’t want to miss! It’s our way of sharing holiday wishes, memories, and messages from across the community.
Pick up your copy today or log in as a digital subscriber and enjoy this special Christmas week with The Southern Star.!

12/20/2025

A little Christmas magic made a special stop at Lisenby Primary School as Officer Grogg of the Ozark Police Department visited to deliver not one, but two Elves on the Shelf! These elves have been on quite the adventure with the Ozark Police Department, and Officer Grogg shared photos of their journey with the girls after making the big delivery. One student was a bit shy at first but soon warmed up to the surprise, while the other, on crutches, lit up with a big, happy smile at the unexpected visit. Each child received a gift from their elf — though their little helper was a bit reluctant to give up the last one! 😂 The visits took place quietly in the hallway, making each moment feel even more personal and special. Thank you, Officer Grogg, for taking the time to spread Christmas cheer, and create memories these students won’t soon forget!

12/19/2025

The Southern Star is on newsstands and online for digital subscribers! Serving the Ozark and Dale County communities since 1867, don’t miss this week’s issue where you’ll discover how holiday harmonies filled the Ozark Civic Center during the annual Sounds of the Season concert, learn why buying age-appropriate toys can make a big difference for children’s safety, and read about a growing shift toward holistic diabetes care that looks beyond just numbers and prescriptions. Catch up on local government with coverage of the Daleville City Council’s busy meeting and the Clayhatchee Town Council’s push for tighter financial controls, and enjoy the sparkle and hometown pride as Newton celebrated Christmas with its annual parade and festivities. You’ll also find community news, columns, devotionals, and more inside — thank you for supporting local journalism and allowing us to keep telling your stories.

12/13/2025

Brisk winds, bright spirits mark Ozark Christmas Parade

By Caitlyn Cummings Despite brisk winds and freezing temperatures, the spirit of the season was on full display as the Ozark Kiwanis Club hosted the annual Ozark Christmas Parade on December 2. Residents lined the streets of downtown Ozark, bundled in coats, scarves, and blankets, determined not to....

12/13/2025

Ozark City Council opposes SSUT litigation, cites risk to city revenue

By Christina Faulkner Ozark City Council unanimously approved a resolution opposing ongoing litigation related to Alabama’s Simplified Sellers Use Tax (SSUT) during its meeting held on December 1 at the Ozark Municipal Building, citing concerns that changes to the current system could result in re...

12/13/2025

Dale County Celebrates Ag Supporters, FFA, and FarmHER

Submitted by County Extension Coordinator Melissa Voynich The Dale County Farm-City Committee was pleased to present the following awards at our Banquet on Tuesday, November 18. We will be running the award write-ups each week through the holiday season. The Agriculture Supporter Award is presented....

12/12/2025

Ozark native launches youth tech camp blending gaming and learning

By Christina Faulkner VR2 Technology is bringing an immersive, youth-focused gaming experience to Ozark later this month, blending technology, creativity, and hands-on learning in what its founder describes as a first-of-its-kind camp for the area. Founded by Ozark native and creative technologist V...

12/12/2025

Keeping holiday cacti merry and bright

By Justin Miller Auburn University — In many households, no holiday décor would be complete without the bright-blooming colors of a Christmas cactus. The same goes for the other holiday cacti seen blooming at Thanksgiving and Easter. As one of the easiest indoor plants to care for, it is no wonde...

12/12/2025

The Southern Star is on newsstands and available online for digital subscribers. In this week’s issue, learn how the Kiwanis’ Annual Ozark Christmas Parade brought warmth and joy to a freezing night while honoring a lifetime of service from one community doctor. Discover how Ozark native Victor Roberts is launching a first-of-its-kind youth gaming and creativity camp at Venue 1880. Read more about SSUT and Ozark City Council’s decision to oppose the proposed litigation. Explore how veterans and volunteers are preparing to place more than 3,000 wreaths at local cemeteries during the 10th Annual Wiregrass Honor Wreaths ceremonies. Learn how one child’s compassionate and thoughtful idea grew into a tradition spreading far beyond Ozark and bringing comfort and light to those who struggle during the holiday season. Learn more about keeping your holiday cacti healthy and blooming through the season in this week’s Extension Buzz. Read more about the people and efforts that make the Wiregrass stronger in our Community News section. Pick up your copy today or visit ozarkal.news to read more. As always, thank you for supporting local journalism and allowing us to keep telling your stories.

12/06/2025

Thanksgiving food giveaways feed Wiregrass communities

By Travis Parker Three separate Thanksgiving meal efforts in Ozark, Daleville, and Enterprise turned the Wiregrass into one large community table this year, combining free food, fellowship, and hundreds of volunteers to make sure no one went hungry or ate alone on the holiday. Thanksgiving at Westvi...

12/06/2025

Dale County celebrates producers and farmers – Part II
https://ow.ly/uLcL50XCS0T

12/05/2025

City of Ozark welcomes new police chief and director of public safety

By Christina Faulkner The City of Ozark recently entered a new chapter in public safety leadership as it appointed its next police chief and Director of Public Safety, filling roles once held by now Mayor Charles Ward during his years as Director of Public Safety. Former Deputy Chief Michael Bryan w...