Thursday, January 29th, 2026
Good morning, Montgomery. Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 29th of January.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Preliminary data show the homeless population in Montgomery has risen about 30% since last year; teams from the Mid-Alabama Coalition for the Homeless are helping with supplies as they complete the Point-in-Time Count by Saturday. WSFA 12
- ➤ The City of Montgomery Parks & Recreation Department has opened registration for five days of spring break fun for kids; families can sign up online to secure spots for engaging activities in local parks. The Montgomery Independent
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ SmartBank welcomes Chase Hardy as its new Senior Vice President, Corporate Relationship Manager in Montgomery. He brings 16-year banking experience to the role. The Montgomery Independent
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ The Alabama Public Charter School Commission has opened applications for new start-up public charter schools; proposals must show academic, organizational, and financial capacity. Approved schools may open in 2027–2028 or 2028–2029, so interested organizations should review the criteria carefully. WSFA 12
- ➤ Lawmakers advanced House Bill 78 (HB78) to limit screen time in publicly funded child care for children from birth to 5; state agencies will set age-appropriate guidelines and require teacher training while local boards must adopt kindergarten screen use policies before the 2027-28 school year. Gov. Kay Ivey supports the measure, which will take effect on Jan. 1, 2027. Alabama Daily News
- ➤ This week, National School Choice Week gives Montgomery families a chance to learn about multiple K-12 education options (public, charter, private, online and homeschooling) as the nationwide campaign offers resources to help parents choose the best path. WSFA 12
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ The stippled studfish, found only in Alabama, was reported to be moving closer to protection under the Endangered Species Act after proposals were announced on Jan. 28. State officials will decide on its status soon. WSFA 12
- ➤ A brief mild period continues today and tomorrow with highs near 50, but a dangerous Arctic front will hit Saturday by dropping temperatures below 20 and bringing strong north winds through Sunday. Residents are advised to take precautions for the deep freeze. WSFA 12
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ Over 50 Alabama dentists and students rallied outside the State Capitol today, urging lawmakers to pass HB 212 and SB 81 (bills that require most premiums to cover patient care) to prevent a future shortage of dental services. WSFA 12
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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.
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Viking 5K, 10K, & Half Marathon
2-6 p.m. — Blount Cultural Park — $30-$65 — Run through beautiful Montgomery and challenge yourself with a range of distances from a 5K to a Half Marathon.
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
No new job posts today. You can submit one here.
No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
Life isn't about finding yourself. Life is about creating yourself.
~ George Bernard Shaw
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