Good morning, Monroe.

The City of Monroe will host its 47th annual Martin Luther King Jr. Birthday Salute on Thursday, Jan.

15 at 10 a.m. in the W. L. “Jack” Howard Theater at the Monroe Civic Center Complex — the event will present awards, musical performances, and a keynote by Kimberly Dowdell.

The Monroe Garden Club offers beautification grants to nonprofits, schools (and government agencies) to improve public spaces in Ouachita Parish.

Applications close Jan. 16 and winners will be announced on Feb. 10.

The Northeast Louisiana District Livestock Show returns to Delhi on Jan.

28 and runs until Jan. 31, drawing youth exhibitors, families, educators & local agriculture supporters from 12 parishes.

Ouachita Fire Department is facing a firefighter shortage (which affects busy call periods and emergencies) and will launch a hiring push this month to address growing needs in the parish.

St. Francis Health President Dr. Thomas Gullatt will retire on Jan.

8, 2027, and current St. Dominic Health leader Jeremy Tinnerello (responsible for North Louisiana and Jackson markets) will assume the regional presidency.

Health experts note that misconceptions over HPV, which infects 13 million Americans yearly, risk leaving both men and women unprotected and at cancer risk in up to six parts of the body; the CDC recommends vaccination as early as age 9 (with catch-up through age 26) to prevent these cancers.

Sterling, a three-year-old pet who is completely vetted & spayed, is now available for adoption; interested locals can inquire at the shelter for details.

Night of Cakes 2026

5:30-9 p.m. — West Monroe Convention Center — Cost varies — Indulge in cakes and bid on enticing mystery bags for a good cause.

Jester Jog 2026 Color Celebration

9-10 a.m. — Alley Park — Registration fee applies — Run the vibrant Mardi Gras Parade Route in a colorful three-mile fun run.