Good morning, Montgomery.

The Montgomery Zoo will hold its Winter Zoo Volunteer Serve Day on Saturday, Jan.

17 (9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.). Community members aged 12 and older can sign up to help close out the holiday season and prepare for a new zoo year.

The Salvation Army of Montgomery thanked donors after its Christmas toy drive raised more funds than last year despite falling short on bell ringers.

Officials said community contributions will support local programs all year (including gifts for children in need).

Big Mike's Steakhouse will open Wednesday in Millbrook.

The new venue aims to offer local residents a modern dining experience with an emphasis on quality steaks and friendly service.

The Montgomery County DA’s office is taking steps to boost school attendance as classes resume today by engaging at-risk families (under its Helping Montgomery Families Initiative) and discussing legal issues with students to help prevent truancy.

A new state bill linking higher education funding to performance markers is set to be introduced this week in the Legislature, with lawmakers planning to meet school leaders to discuss tailored fund options (supporting graduation rates and career readiness).

The Montgomery Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi held a career fair at its chapter house on Saturday, Jan.

10 – nearly 100 young men from local programs attended to learn about military options, careers in medicine, financial aid, and ACT preparation.

The American Red Cross is installing free smoke alarms in Montgomery as part of its Sound the Alarm, Save a Life campaign to cut the risk of fire deaths by half.

Homeowners can request an installation outside scheduled events on the Red Cross website (and receive help in creating an escape plan).

The Hoop With Heart Basketball showcase will be held Saturday, Jan.

17 at The Montgomery Academy — it will feature high school basketball with a vital health message, and Youth-N-Action representatives say the event offers a fun, educational experience for local fans.

PMP Certification Training Bootcamp

9 AM – 5 PM — Alabama State University — Tuition required — Enhance your project management skills and ensure a 100% pass rate on the PMP exam.

Alabama D.O.T. Auction

9 AM – 1 PM — J.M. Wood Auction Co Inc — Registration required — Bid on a variety of construction equipment, tractors, and trucks at this local auction event.

Veterans Information & Benefits Workshop

10 AM – 12 PM — E L Lowder Branch Library of Montgomery — Free entry — Discover essential information and benefits tailored for veterans and their families.