Good morning, Montgomery.

Local organizations will host a free back-to-school drive offering school supplies, backpacks and haircuts for students on Sunday, Aug.

9 at the EPIC Center Multiplex (2477 E. South Blvd) from 1 to 5 p.m. The event will also feature food, music and games to help families gear up for the new term.

The District Attorney's Office is launching the Helping Montgomery Families Initiative to recruit volunteer mentors for children in our community.

The program invites interested locals to support kids and strengthen neighborhood ties.

Montgomery Film Festival returns to the Capri Theatre this week as filmmakers and movie lovers gather for a celebration of cinema.

Food Network named Alabama's iconic dish to be smoked chicken with a creamy white barbecue sauce (credited to Bob Gibson in 1925), and locals can enjoy this traditional flavor at numerous barbecue joints statewide.

Montgomery Public Schools held its annual back to school bash on Aug.

1 (5:58 p.m.) to help students prepare for the upcoming academic year. Organizers said the event provided resources and fun activities that boosted student readiness.

Freewill Missionary Baptist Church is hosting its 21st Annual Relay for Health & Wellness to promote healthy living and fellowship among community members.

Isaiah Stephens-Love of the Uplove Foundation is promoting a Back-to-School Mental Health Summit for students on Aug.

8. The event will offer support for mental wellness as students prepare for the new school year.

The Montgomery Humane Society introduced its Pets of the Week featuring Grey the 4-month-old kitten with a bobtail and raspy meow and Judie the 1-year-old Terrier mix who loves sunlight — the pets are available for adoption; contact the humane society front desk or check their website for details.

Beautiful - The Carole King Musical

1-5 p.m. — Alabama Shakespeare Festival — VIP tickets available — Experience the musical journey of Carole King with premium seating options.