Best of WOOF FM

Misty & Derrick in the Morning

Chemistry is the core of "Misty & Derrick in the Morning." This montage demonstrates the show’s unique ability to turn unscripted listener interactions into "watercooler moments"—whether it’s teasing a caller about his "axe-wielding" dating profile or a teenage contestant giving the hosts attitude during a game. The entry highlights the show’s versatility: transitioning seamlessly from the comedy to parenting advice to the sincerity of meaningful mental health checks. It is authentic, family-friendly radio designed specifically for the Dothan community.

Restoring the Magic: The Journey to the North Pole

For children recovering from trauma and abuse, the holidays can be a difficult time. This entry of Community Information showcases how 99.7 WOOF FM serves as a bridge between local charities and the community at large. Host Deborah Pearson interviews Shelley Linderman about the "Journey to the North Pole," a heavily coordinated event transforming Landmark Park into a winter wonderland for 21 local children. The segment goes beyond a standard announcement; it provides a compelling narrative of the children's journey—from a Harley Davidson escort to a private meeting with Santa—while driving a powerful call to action for the sponsorships needed to make it possible.

BEST HARD NEWS: Recurring Danger: The Jason Murphy Indictment

This entry highlights WOOF FM's dedication to tracking high-profile offenders in the Wiregrass area. Deborah Pearson delivers a detailed update on Jason Andrew Murphy, who faces new charges for allegedly threatening to kill county deputies. By connecting these new threats to Murphy's violent past involving high-powered weaponry, Pearson provides a comprehensive risk assessment for the listening audience. The report effectively summarizes complex legal history—from a 2010 conviction to current bond status—in a clear, digestible format for a general news broadcast.

Nominee: Deborah Pearson (99.7 WOOF-FM) "The News Voice of the Wiregrass"

Deborah Pearson is more than a news anchor; she is the trusted voice of the Wiregrass. In a year defined by both community challenges and celebrations, Deborah demonstrated exceptional range, moving seamlessly from hard-hitting breaking news to heartwarming human interest stories.

Her reporting goes beyond the headlines. Whether she is breaking down complex local crime stories, championing small businesses like Todd Farms with her "Emu Oil" feature, or providing a platform for the voiceless through her "Sincere Voices of Victims" series, Deborah approaches every story with empathy and accuracy. This entry highlights her ability to connect with listeners on every level: the authority they trust during a crisis, and the neighbor they celebrate with during good times. Deborah Pearson doesn't just report on Dothan; she embodies it.

BREAKING NEWS COVERAGE - Tornado Strikes Dothan Prep Academy (March 31 2025)

Minutes after a tornado touched down in Southeast Dothan, WOOF FM’s Deborah Pearson was live on the scene at Dothan Prep Academy, where the storm had caused significant structural damage while classes were in session. This entry captures the chaotic initial moments of the disaster response. Pearson secures immediate, on-site interviews with Dothan City Schools’ Public Information Officer David Baxley and Fire Department officials to confirm student injuries and building damage. Crucially, this broadcast served as a primary safety lifeline for the community, instructing frantic parents to avoid the dangerous school zone and proceed to the Doug Tew Recreation Center for reunification.

REGULARLY SCHEDULED NEWSCAST - WOOF FM Morning News with Deborah Pearson: June 12, 2025

This submission exemplifies WOOF FM’s commitment to delivering a complete picture of life in the Wiregrass during the morning drive. Anchor Deborah Pearson opens with hard news, detailing a major drug trafficking arrest in Enterprise following a long-term probe and a critical-injury crash involving a fleeing suspect in Washington County. The newscast seamlessly transitions to community-focused stories, including a Crime Stoppers cold case update and the Army’s 250th Birthday celebrations at Fort Novosel. The segment concludes with a feature on Landmark Park’s summer programs and a local weather update, demonstrating a perfect balance of breaking news, safety alerts, and community engagement.

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