DOTHAN, Ala. (WDNews) — Two new statues have joined Dothan’s beloved Peanuts Around Town public art collection, unveiled Wednesday outside the Xfinity Store on South Oates Street as part of Comcast’s ongoing investment in the Wiregrass community.
The unveiling ceremony, held in partnership with Visit Dothan, the City of Dothan, and the Houston County Commission, celebrated both creativity and community connection. The event drew city officials, Comcast executives, local artists, and community leaders to commemorate the company’s contribution to Dothan’s expanding public art landscape.
Jeff Buzzelli, Regional Senior Vice President for Comcast’s Florida Region, said the company is proud to deepen its partnership with Dothan. “At Comcast, we believe in being more than an internet service provider,” Buzzelli said. “It’s about giving back to the community. We’re excited to expand our broadband network here in Houston County and to be part of the story that makes Dothan so special.”
Buzzelli noted Comcast’s $4.5 million investment to expand fiber networks in Houston County and a recent state grant that will further extend internet access to rural areas.
Dothan City Commissioner Dave Stock, speaking on behalf of Mayor Mark Saliba, read an official proclamation designating October 8, 2025, as “Peanuts Around Town Day.” The recognition celebrates the city’s heritage as the Peanut Capital of the World and acknowledges Comcast’s contributions to digital access and community partnerships. “These peanut sculptures showcase the creativity of our local artists and the pride of Dothan’s neighborhoods,” Stock said. “They invite residents and visitors alike to explore and connect in meaningful ways.”
The two statues—named “Xfi-nutty” and “Biz-nut”—represent Xfinity and Comcast Business, respectively. The names were chosen by Comcast employees, highlighting the company’s focus on community involvement and employee pride.
Christal Connell, Senior Director of Retail for Comcast’s Florida Region, said the new sculptures symbolize the company’s ties to Dothan. “Our stores are more than places to get connected—they’re part of the community’s fabric,” Connell said. “These statues reflect the warmth, creativity, and pride we see every day from our customers.”
During the ceremony, Comcast announced a $10,000 donation to the Alfred Saliba Family Services Center to support “Workshop Wednesdays,” a new initiative that promotes digital literacy, internet safety, and technology training for local families and job seekers.
Michelle McGovern, Comcast’s Vice President of Government Affairs, said the program reinforces the company’s mission to bridge the digital divide. “It’s part of our DNA to invest where our employees live and work,” McGovern said. “We want every resident to have access to not only the internet, but the skills to use it confidently.”
Visit Dothan Executive Director Hannah Shiver said the Peanuts Around Town project continues to draw travelers and locals alike, with more than 95 statues now decorating the city and county. “This project enhances our visitor experience while strengthening community pride,” Shiver said. “We’re grateful to Comcast for continuing to invest in Dothan’s story.”
Houston County Commissioner Curtis Harvey closed the ceremony by reading a proclamation recognizing Comcast’s role in expanding broadband access and supporting community initiatives. The Peanuts Around Town project, now featuring more than 95 statues, remains one of Dothan’s most recognizable tributes to its agricultural roots—and a testament to the partnerships that keep the Wiregrass growing.
