Good morning, Dothan.

Marian Loftin, a respected educator and community leader, died this week at age 89.

Funeral arrangements are pending as locals remember her work as a schoolteacher and executive director of the Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce.

On Christmas Eve, donors at Moma Tina’s Mission House met the children they helped — turning strangers into family in a face-to-face gift exchange that broke with traditional programs.

News4’s Santa Search let local families follow Santa’s flight via NORAD on Christmas Eve, offering an online guide that brought festive cheer to many.

The tracking tool contributed to a memorable holiday experience.

News4's Katie Ring reported that Angel Tree donors at Moma Tina’s Mission House met children they had helped on Christmas Eve & the heartwarming encounter brightened the community's holiday spirit.

Families can enjoy the Mardi Gras Kids + Pet Parade on Jan.

24 at Solomon Park. Organized by Chairos Dothan, the festive event will showcase costumes, wagons and pet participation, with proceeds benefiting the Wiregrass Humane Society.

On Christmas Eve morning, fire crews from Fadette Fire Protection District, Slocomb Fire-Rescue, and the Alabama Forestry Commission contained a 10-acre outdoor fire on Beefmaster Road—no injuries were reported despite one structure being threatened.

The Butcher’s Daughter Deli and Market will open at 151 W.

Main St. in the La Strada Building in early 2026 as part of downtown revitalization efforts. Owners plan an opening as early as June and will share updates on renovations as the project moves ahead.

Dothan Police Major Will Glover fed his troops during his Christmas Eve patrol by bringing dinner into the briefing room to thank officers who worked through the holiday.

His gesture supported personnel who spent the evening away from their families.

Organizers of the upcoming Dothan Hoops Classic say the venue will enforce strict policies—ensuring a safe and family-friendly event—and advise fans to review the guidelines before attending.

News4's Sarah Sims played a game of PIG with Providence Christian's 2A champs on Dec.

24 at 3:10 p.m. & the lighthearted contest highlighted a fun moment in local sports.