🌱 Cellphone-Free School Year + Local Correctional Officer Arrested

Hey, everybody. I'm back in your inbox this morning to walk you through everything you need to know about what's happening these days in Montgomery.

But first, your local weather:

• Thursday: Partly sunny with a t-storm. High: 84 Low: 70.
• Friday: An afternoon t-storm or two. High: 87 Low: 67.

From our sponsor:

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Here are the top three stories in Montgomery today:

1. The MPS Board of Education has approved a contract with Yondr, a company that makes cellphone pouches, to create a cellphone-free environment for students in the fall. All Montgomery Public School students in sixth through 12th grade must place their phones into the pouches, which will be locked during the school day. (WSFA)
2. On Jun. 10, former Kilby correctional officer Charlie Townsend was arrested and charged with trafficking methamphetamine, use of position for personal gain, and promoting prison contraband II. According to the Alabama Department of Corrections Law Enforcement Services Division, Townsend confessed to bringing contraband items to an inmate. Townsend has resigned and is currently being held on a $775,000 bond at the Montgomery County Detention Center. (WVTM 13)
3. On Friday, Aug. 4 at 7:00 p.m., the Alabama GOP will host former President Donald Trump at its 2023 Summer Meeting located at the Renaissance Hotel in Montgomery. Tickets are on sale now and the Alabama GOP expects a sold-out crowd. (AL.com)

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Today and tomorrow in Montgomery:

Thursday, June 15

• Bottle Cap Art At Common Bond Brewers (6:00 PM)
• Karaoke Thursdays At GTSouth Geek & Gaming Tavern (7:00 PM)

Friday, June 16

• Juneteenth Weekend: Mr. Smoke's Album Release Party featuring Mo' Elements At BB Kings Blues Club (8:00 PM)

From my notebook:

• Thrifty Tuesdays are back at the Montgomery Zoo this summer! Every Tuesday now through Jul. 25, zoo visitors receive half off regular price admission, except on Jul. 4. (Elmore Autauga News)
• The 2023 college football season is kicking off in Montgomery this year! The FCS Kickoff between North Alabama and Mercer will take place at Cramton Bowl on Saturday, Aug. 26! ESPN events will return to Montgomery on Sunday, Sep. 3 for the 3rd Annual Boeing Red Tails Classic between Fort Valley State and Tuskegee. (City of Montgomery, Alabama Government via Facebook)
• The Montgomery Zoo is currently hiring Maintenance Workers! All zoo employees receive the city of Montgomery benefits, annual and sick leave, various insurance options, multiple paid holidays, and a competitive salary package. Apply in person at the Montgomery Zoo gift shop and ask for the green application. Contact the Zoo at (334) 625-4905 with any questions. (Montgomery Zoo and Mann Wildlife Learning Museum via Facebook)

That's it for today. I'll see you back in your inbox soon with your next update!

— Rose Mendez

About me: Rose Mendez is a freelance writer. She is studying English Literature at Hunter College. She loves reading, walking around the city, and coffee!