What’s Happening Wiregrass? with Katelyn

What's Happening Wiregrass?: Meet the Wiregrass Family Taking Over Social Media

The Deal family joined What’s Happening Wiregrass to talk about their rise on social media, family life, and how they stay authentic while reaching millions online.
Brandon and Megan Deal, along with daughters Sarah, Kenzie, and Daisy, shared how their content journey began unexpectedly after viewers noticed Mackenzie’s cochlear implant in one of their early videos.
Since then, the family has built a large following across TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube by creating relatable and wholesome content centered around everyday family moments.
During the interview, the family discussed balancing normal life with their growing online presence while continuing to live and raise their children in the Wiregrass.
They also spoke about how Kenzie’s story has helped encourage other children with hearing loss to feel more confident wearing hearing aids or cochlear implants.
The Deals said they strive to create content that families of all ages can enjoy while staying true to themselves and their Southern roots.
The family can be found on TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook under “Deal Family,” with Brandon noting viewers should look for the verified account with the blue check mark to avoid fake pages online.

What's Happening Wiregrass?: Chipola Health and Rehab shares Summer Bash plans

Sonya and Andrea from Chipola Health and Rehab joined What’s Happening Wiregrass to talk about the facility’s upcoming Summer Bash event planned for May 29.
Andrea, executive director of the 60-bed skilled nursing and rehabilitation center, explained that Chipola Health and Rehab provides rehabilitation services for patients recovering from surgeries, strokes and other medical conditions before they transition back home.
The facility also offers long-term care depending on patient needs.
During the interview, Sonya shared details about the Summer Bash, which will take place from noon until 4 p.m. The free community event will include carnival games, inflatables, a sweet treat walk and shaved ice from Southern Shaved Ice.
Donations collected during the event will go back toward supporting residents and staff at the facility.
Organizers said the event was created to give families and children a fun way to celebrate the beginning of summer while also bringing the community together with residents and staff.
More information about the Summer Bash can be found on the facility’s Facebook page.

What's Happening Wiregrass?: Stroke Awareness Month Brings Life-Saving Education to the Wiregrass

Southeast Medical Center neurologists Dr. Kevin Chow and Dr. Chris Nance joined What’s Happening Wiregrass to discuss Stroke Awareness Month and the importance of recognizing symptoms quickly. The doctors explained that Alabama ranks second in the nation for stroke mortality, making awareness especially important across the Wiregrass region. They emphasized the phrase “time is brain,” explaining that immediate treatment can greatly improve recovery outcomes for stroke patients. During the conversation, the neurologists encouraged residents to remember the acronym “BE FAST” to identify warning signs of a stroke, including balance issues, vision changes, facial drooping, arm weakness and speech difficulty. They stressed that anyone experiencing symptoms should call 911 immediately so treatment can begin as quickly as possible. We also discussed the importance of managing risk factors such as high blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes and smoking to help reduce the likelihood of stroke.

Freedom Ignited Set to Light Up the Wiregrass

Charles of Ill Eagle Fireworks joined What's Happening Wiregrass to discuss the upcoming Freedom Ignited celebration taking place May 16 at the National Peanut Festival grounds.
The event is designed to honor veterans, service members, and their families while bringing the community together for a full day of entertainment and fireworks.
The event will begin at 11 a.m. with a quiet hour for children and adults sensitive to loud noises before live music and activities start at noon. Guests can enjoy a Touch a Truck experience featuring more than 35 vehicles, helicopters, food trucks, vendors, and entertainment on two stages throughout the day.
Country artist Coffey Anderson is expected to headline the event.
Charles said the evening will end with what he believes will be the largest fireworks show the Wiregrass has ever seen.
The show will also feature appearances from the Fireball Dudes, known for their large-scale controlled fireball effects.
Admission is free, but organizers are encouraging a $20 parking donation, with proceeds benefiting veterans organizations and military families.

Downtown Dothan Gears Up for a Busy May

What’s Happening Wiregrass was joined by Clay Dempsey, City of Dothan Director of Performing Arts, to discuss a busy and exciting lineup of events taking place throughout May at the Dothan Civic Center and Opera House. The month begins with a Star Wars-themed movie night, complete with a stormtrooper appearance, followed by a packed weekend featuring performances from Tracy Lawrence, Stained, and Gene Watson.
In addition to concerts, the Civic Center will host several graduations and community events, keeping the venue active through mid-May. Outdoor programming continues to expand as well, with free, family-friendly events at the park including movie nights, live music, and the return of a big band concert series.
Dempsey highlighted the importance of balancing national touring acts with opportunities for local performers, emphasizing the department’s goal of growing the arts scene while supporting emerging talent.
As May continues, residents can also expect comedy shows and additional live entertainment, making downtown Dothan a hub of activity throughout the month. For a full list of events and ticket information, visit dothanciviccenter.org, dothanoperahouse.com, or thepark.dothan.com.

Local Animal Shelter Introduces Summer Camp for Kids

Dedra Gary with Wiregrass Pets joined What’s Happening Wiregrass to talk about their upcoming summer camp and volunteer efforts. As education and volunteer coordinator, Gary has helped build a strong volunteer base, onboarding more than 300 community members since opening.
With that foundation in place, the focus is now shifting toward education, particularly for youth across the Wiregrass. The new summer camp, launching the week of June 1 and running through June 26, will offer a mix of fun and learning. Children will gain hands-on experience with animal care, safety, and understanding animal behavior, while also participating in STEM activities and creative experiences.
The week-long camps run from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., with early drop-off available. Activities include time with animals, themed learning sessions, and special events like water slides and interactive demonstrations.
Parents can sign up through the Wiregrass Pets website, Facebook page, or by phone as the program prepares for its first summer.

Meet the Wiregrass Elvis: Jerome Jackson

Jerome Jackson joined What's Happening Wiregrass to share his journey as a local performer as an Elvis Presley impersonator. By day, Jerome is known by his radio career, but on stage he transforms into the King, delivering performances that have captivated audiences across the region.

Inside the Jewelry Business with Strickland Jewelers

Byron Strickland, owner of Strickland Jewelers, joined What’s Happening Wiregrass to talk all things jewelry, from education to engagement ring trends and a long-standing family legacy.
Strickland explained that a gemologist is essentially the scientist of the jewelry industry, trained to evaluate and assign value to stones using facts and research. He shared that becoming a gemologist requires about two years of study through the Gemological Institute of America, where students learn everything from diamonds to colored stones.
A fifth-generation jeweler, Strickland highlighted the rich history of his family business, which dates back to 1888 and continues to serve the Wiregrass community in both Dothan and Enterprise.
With wedding season underway, Strickland noted that couples are increasingly shopping together and leaning toward custom designs. Popular trends include elongated diamond cuts and delicate bands that can be stacked for a layered look.
Strickland Jewelers is also hosting an estate sale from May 1 through May 9, featuring both vintage and one-of-a-kind pieces.
What’s Happening Wiregrass with Katelyn is brought to you by Dothan United Soccer Club.

How Alternative Baseball is Changing Lives in the Wiregrass

Taylor Duncan, founder and CEO of the Alternative Baseball Organization, joined What’s Happening Wiregrass to discuss the Wiregrass Warriors, a local baseball program designed for individuals on the autism spectrum and with disabilities.
ABO, now celebrating ten years, focuses on more than just baseball. It provides athletes ages 15 and up with opportunities to build teamwork, confidence, and life skills in a supportive environment. Practices are already underway in Enterprise, and the team recently competed in Panama City, bringing together players of all experience levels.
Local program leader Josh Eldreth is helping grow the Wiregrass Warriors, with more games and community involvement planned. Athletes who participate consistently may even have the chance to travel for special national events later this year.
Those interested in joining or supporting the program can visit alternativebaseball.org or find the Wiregrass Warriors ABO on Facebook for more information.

Wiregrass Angel House Hosts Night at the Derby

Seth Brooks joined What’s Happening Wiregrass to share how the Wiregrass Angel House is making a difference across the region while inviting the community to an upcoming fundraiser.
As a junior board member, Brooks explained the group’s focus on supporting fundraising efforts that allow Angel House to continue serving victims of violent crimes and their families across Houston County and seven surrounding counties. The organization provides immediate response services, including crime scene cleanup, counseling, support groups, and court advocacy to help families navigate both emotional and legal challenges.
Brooks also highlighted the upcoming “Night at the Derby” event, set for Thursday, April 30 at 6:30 p.m. at The Forum. The evening will feature food, music, raffles, simulated horse races, and a festive derby atmosphere complete with hats and bow ties. Tickets are $75 and available through the Wiregrass Angel House Facebook page or by contacting their office. Proceeds directly support the organization’s mission.