Good morning, Montgomery.

According to AAA, gas averaged $4.47 per gallon nationwide on Tuesday, Sept.

22, while Alabama drivers paid about $4.02. Prices have risen roughly 7 to 8% over the past month plus diesel prices jumped 14%.

Innovate Alabama is honoring 26 regional champions of innovation and economic growth in Montgomery today, showcasing the diversity of the area’s growing economy.

The event will spotlight local leaders driving progress in various sectors.

Auburn University at Montgomery earned a No.35 ranking among public regional universities in the South in the 2027 U.S. News ratings.

Enrollment increased to 5,123 Fall 2026 students with improved rankings for veterans and its nursing program.

Huntingdon College in Montgomery is ranked no.

11 in U.S. News Top Private Colleges – Regional Colleges – South and no. 13 in Best Values per the 2027 report, which was released recently.

Montgomery Public Schools will hold a Special Education Expo on Friday, Sept.

25 at 9:00 a.m. at Bellinger Hill Auditorium on South Lawrence Street. The expo will help families connect with resources and strengthen community partnerships for students with disabilities.

Montgomery Mayor Steven Reed and Councilwoman Franetta Riley will hold a town hall on Sept.

28 at 6 p.m. at Beulah Baptist Church (3703 Rosa Parks Avenue) to engage residents in a community-focused conversation on city priorities.

AL.com has featured 12 nominees for Week 5 Volleyball Player of the Week with seniors, juniors and sophomores posting standout numbers last week — voting closes Thursday at 5 p.m. The list includes local talent from Montgomery Academy.