Good morning, Monroe.

Local organizers will host an orientation to help prospective foster parents learn the process in a low-pressure setting, while the state fire marshal urges residents to review space heater safety tips as winter weather approaches.

A warming station opened at Liller Marbles Community Center on Monday, Jan.

12 and remains open as cold weather continues, providing cots, Meals Ready-to-Eat & water for ambulatory individuals while not accommodating special medical needs or pets.

Due to freezing temperatures and forecasted unsafe travel conditions, organizers rescheduled Hang Out With the Hawks to Saturday, Jan.

31 at 5:30 p.m. to ensure the safety of all attendees—community members with questions are urged to contact organizers.

Monroe Mayor Friday Ellis announced on Jan.

21 that local chef Cory Bahr is nominated as Best Regional Chef by the James Beard Foundation (he joins nominees from Biloxi and Jackson).

A winter storm will hit this weekend with dangerously cold temperatures expected in the teens (and possibly lower), featuring freezing rain, sleet, and snow across ArkLaMiss; the Louisiana State Fire Marshal urges residents to review space heater safety guidelines.

Stores around Monroe are stocking shelves with essentials ahead of winter storm Fern expected to hit this weekend, bringing ice and snow.

Residents are encouraged to prepare by securing winter supplies (like propane, hand warmers and bottled water).

The ULM Medical Laboratory Science Society and LifeShare Blood Center will host a blood drive on Tuesday, Jan.

27 and Wednesday, Jan. 28 from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. in Hangar Ballroom A at ULM; donors may pick a free LifeShare Mardi Gras themed t-shirt or sweatshirt (supplies last).

Louisiana Blue announced last week that Sabrina Hogan, senior vice president of care delivery, will lead its Monroe operations.

Hogan is expected to strengthen local healthcare services with her new responsibilities.

Chef Darrell Teats shared his smothered chicken wings recipe on Good Morning ArkLaMiss at 7:14 a.m. on Jan.

21 — the state Fire Marshal urged residents to review space heater safety measures as winter weather with freezing rain, sleet, and snow approaches.

ULM introduces Antony Blackburn as its seventh soccer head coach (he brings experience from Valencia C.F. and LSU) as he prepares the team for the season.

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.

Run for the Roses 5k

8 AM – 12 PM — Forsythe Park — Registration fee applies — Celebrate Valentine’s Day by running for a cause and supporting philanthropy with Alpha Omicron Pi.