Good morning, Montgomery.

Tracye Strichik became the new executive director of VOICES for Alabama's Children on Aug.

1 — bringing years of teaching and state work to the role. She said she will use the Kids Count Data Book to guide lawmakers and meet children's needs — a plan to give them a stronger voice.

Montgomery Public Schools is holding a job fair at the MPS Leadership Building on Union Street from 9 a.m. to noon to invite retired educators to serve as mentors for new teachers—this paid, flexible initiative aims to strengthen early-career support for quality instruction.

Montgomery Mayor Steven Reed presented the city’s largest budget proposal of $353.2 million—an increase of $21.6 million from last year—with plans to boost public safety technology, employee incentives, and infrastructure.

The council will hold a public hearing on September 2 and vote on the proposal on September 16.

U.S. Rep. Shomari Figures met with constituents at Resurrection Catholic School in Montgomery yesterday, where he discussed health care, industry, and infrastructure plans.

He said 52 rural hospitals remained open across the state but 22 faced an immediate threat of shutting down—his remarks also highlighted efforts to boost local transport and water resource projects.

Alabama is trying to reclaim its top college football spot under coach Kalen DeBoer in his second season after a 9—4 record and losses to unranked teams last season.

The team, currently ranked eighth, named Ty Simpson as quarterback and will face key road games beginning Aug 30 against Florida State and others during a challenging five—week stretch starting mid-October.

Montgomery is set to host the 86th annual Tuskegee–Morehouse Classic on Oct.

4 at the historic Cramton Bowl—with the game kicking off at 6 p.m.—as part of HBCU Classic Weekend that will bring live concerts, tailgates, and cultural events to the city.

Hog Days of Summer BBQ & Music Festival 2025

2-8 p.m. — Alabama Union Station — Tickets required — Experience a sizzling BBQ and live entertainment at one of the summer's top festivals.

PMP Certification 4-Day Classroom Training

9 a.m.-5 p.m. — Montgomery, AL — Price to be confirmed — Enhance your project management skills with comprehensive CAPM training and real-world applications.