Good morning, Montgomery.

Pike Road Town Councilwoman Mim Whatley announced 11 businesses coming soon to Merry Corners at Pike Road and Vaughn Road, including seven restaurants and four retail and service shops.

One space remains available as talks continue with potential tenants.

Regional economic development agencies will host an appreciation dinner Monday, Jan.

26 at 6:30 p.m. at Central Restaurant (129 Coosa Street) to build stronger ties in the Capital Region and celebrate statewide growth.

Troy University will launch a new LPN to RN Bridge program at its Montgomery campus in fall 2026 to help meet Alabama's growing need for registered nurses.

Alabama lawmakers approved three education bills — letting retired employees drive school buses without losing benefits, banning the three-cueing reading method, and enabling veterans to join teaching — that now move to the next committees.

42 young women competed in preliminary rounds for the Distinguished Young Women scholarship program held locally.

They aimed to win scholarship money to support their education.

Phones now require dialing 10 digits as 334 numbers will run out by year-end.

Beginning Feb. 23, new 483 numbers will be issued in central and southeast Alabama (covering Montgomery, Selma, Auburn Opelika, Dothan and Enterprise).

Health officials advise residents to dress in layers and act quickly if they notice early signs of hypothermia or frostbite as WSFA meteorologists forecast a dangerous cold snap starting next week (proper layering is key to safety).

Alabama's state fire marshal's office urges residents to use safe home heating methods today as temperatures drop, warning that improper practices can lead to fire hazards.

The advisory stresses following manufacturer instructions to help prevent accidents.

AHSAA voted Friday to reclassify public & private high schools in Fever Country, affecting multiple schools in the Fever 12 viewing area.

The realignment will guide upcoming local athletic contests.

High school sports reclassification changed after the Board approved a new system about an hour ago — the Montgomery Biscuits hosted Fan Fest at Riverwalk Stadium three days ago to celebrate new ownership and spark excitement for the baseball season.

The AHSAA announced that funds from the CHOOSE Act and similar aid will no longer affect athletic eligibility, as private schools join new classification rules.

The changes take effect for the 2026-27 school year, with playoffs set to separate public and private teams while regular season play continues together.

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.

Critter Crawl 5K and Yeti Dash

2:30-5 p.m. — Alabama Nature Center — Registration fee applies — Participate in a fun-filled 5K race and Yeti Dash supporting local nature initiatives.