Good morning, Montgomery.

River Region United Way kicked off its 2025 campaign 'United is the way' to help local nonprofits reach people in need.

The group said rising homelessness and struggles for single moms drive local partners — including Habitat for Humanity—to unite for better support.

Jef’Daysha Woods, a 24-year-old Montgomery woman, pleaded guilty to manslaughter for the fatal shooting of 19-year-old Keiana Johnson on May 27, 2021, on the 3500 block of Faro Court and was sentenced on August 28 to five years in prison — five years of probation and $15,425.28 in restitution.

Two legendary musicians will perform in Montgomery this fall.

Saxophonist Branford Marsalis and cellist Yo-Yo Ma will perform on October 11 at the Peace and Justice Memorial Center — where Marsalis will debut three new pieces— as part of an Equal Justice Initiative concert.

Alabama Cooperative Extension specialists confirmed that invasive cotton jassids—small pests with two black dots on each wing—were found in several counties and are stressing local cotton crops.

Auburn University and the Alabama Department of Agriculture will survey fields and test pesticides to help secure crop yields.

Nearly three out of four Alabamians said too little is spent on schools—survey results show opinions are split on the CHOOSE Act with 45% in favor and 45% against.

Respondents also stressed the need for more support for teachers and better school facilities as lawmakers plan future funding changes.

Commissioner Nancy Buckner of the Alabama Department of Human Resources told lawmakers that the state will need an extra $208 million by 2028 as federal SNAP funding cuts force more cost-sharing.

She noted the pay raise includes a $35 million increase for administrative costs in FY2027 and an estimated $173 million for SNAP in FY2028—efforts to lower error rates may affect future staffing needs.

The Retirement Systems of Alabama is building a 250,000-square foot warehouse on Dickinson Drive for the ABC Board that will replace four leased warehouses and will operate by August 2026—this project will cut staff from 84 to 53 and is expected to boost efficiency and state revenue.

Fall Fest Boots & Brims

12-9 p.m. — Riverfront Park — Free entry — Enjoy a vibrant day of music, food, and autumn festivities at the Fall Fest Boots & Brims Edition.

PMP Certification Classroom Training

9 AM – 5 PM — Montgomery, AL — Contact for pricing — Gain comprehensive project management skills with 32 hours of interactive classroom training.