Good morning, Dothan.

The Dothan Wolves softball team led Operation Christmas Child by packing roughly 25,000 gift-filled shoeboxes as part of Samaritan’s Purse’s global drive—volunteers in Dothan are loading boxes that include school supplies, toys and hygiene items for children in over 130 countries.

Distribution will begin in December as the project continues to grow across the region.

Vaughn-Blumberg Services is offering affordable gift-wrapping services (with prices ranging from $3 for small items to $10 for extra-large gifts) for holiday shopping while supporting programs for people with intellectual disabilities in Houston County.

Customers can call (334-793-3102) to schedule wrapping services.

On Monday, community partners joined New Beginning Ministries International along West Main Street to serve free meals to people in need—an effort that supported local residents facing food insecurity.

OSHA reports show that over 3,600 severe injuries and deaths have occurred from nearly 2,000 Alabama employers over the past decade, with incidents recorded in 84% of the state’s 67 counties.

Major employers such as Walmart and poultry companies reported high numbers of incidents—highlighting ongoing worker safety concerns statewide.

Governor Kay Ivey is urging residents to nominate local small businesses for the 2026 National Small Business Week Awards—nominations must be submitted online by December 22 at 1 p.m. CT.

Virtual workshops will be held on December 3 and December 17 to help guide applicants through the award categories.

Superintendent Dr. Garrick Askew released a 100-day progress report for Dothan City Schools after over 100 school visits and community meetings—he pointed out improvements and identified key challenges in literacy, math, behavior, technology, and staffing.

The report also notes that an expert team is reviewing special education services and changes will happen once their recommendations are in.

The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency has increased highway patrols statewide this Thanksgiving week to encourage safe driving as travel is expected to rise; ALDOT said no temporary lane closures will be allowed on interstates from Nov.

26 through Nov. 30 — a measure meant to ease congestion and protect road workers.

BJ, a bail enforcement officer, organized a fundraiser with friends like Cabrea Harvesting that raised over $3,400 to help his mother Lisa Langley after her lung cancer diagnosis—supporting her treatment as her care plan shows promise.

Twelve-year-old Emalyn Quiller returned from Oklahoma City after competing in the Walk-Trot Western Pleasure and Equitation division at the Grand National and World Championship Morgan Horse Show—her first world championship appearance.

She trains at Clearmeadow Morgans and Riding Academy and plans to build on her success in global equestrian sports.

A recent study of over 3,000 respondents has revealed Alabama's top three sports parks and ranked Westgate Park in Dothan as second best.

Sand Mountain Park & Amphitheater in Albertville is first while Bill Noble Park in Gardendale is third.

The Troy Trojans will face Southern Miss Friday night after a win over Georgia State, and if they win, they will claim a spot in the Sun Belt Championship — the game could shift the season's momentum.

Brightspeed Holiday Light Spectacular

5:30 PM — Fairgrounds Arena - Peanut Festival — Ticket pricing TBA — Experience a vibrant drive-through light show with expanded displays, visits with Santa, and live entertainment.

Second Stage - Alabama Golf Tournament

— Time Range — RTJ Golf Trail at Highland Oaks — Entry fees may apply — Compete in a prestigious golf event at a championship course in the heart of Alabama.

Whoville Celebration

10 AM – 4 PM — Boll Weevil Monument — Free entry — Enjoy a day of holiday shopping with 100+ local vendors and a chance to meet the Grinch and get your WhoHair done.

Chelcie Lynn Live

7:30-10:30 p.m. — Dothan Opera House — Enjoy a night of laughter with Chelcie Lynn's comedy performance.

Candlelight Concert: Neo-Soul Favorites

6:30-8 p.m. — Dothan Opera House — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a candlelight ambiance filled with soulful melodies that resonate with the spirit of community.

Christmas with John Berry

7-9 p.m. — Dothan Opera House — No cost info available — Enjoy a festive evening of Christmas music with John Berry in a charming venue.

Paper Anniversary Family Band Show

7-9 p.m. — Dothan Nurseries Greenhouse, Gardens, & Gifts — Ticketed event — Experience a cozy night of country and bluegrass music with the Paper Anniversary family band.