Good morning, Monroe.

Squirt is a four-year-old, 45-pound stray Pitbull described as small, super sweet and timid; he is available for adoption at a local Monroe shelter.

Monroe Rotary Club is preparing for this year’s annual gumbo fundraiser to celebrate the dish’s rich history and support local charities.

ULM history professor Dr. Jeffery Anderson (explaining its blend of African, French, Spanish, and Native American influences) noted that each region offers its own unique recipe.

King and Queen Clif and Lynda Bergeron, ULM alumni, will lead the Krewe of Janus Mardi Gras parade in the Twin Cities today.

They were elected by Krewe members to honor their long association with ULM and celebrate local Mardi Gras traditions.

The Louisiana Purchase Gardens & Zoo reopened Friday, Feb.

6 after temporary closures caused by Winter Storm Fern, with city crew and zoo staff ensuring visitor safety. Zoo Director Phillip Crawley thanked the community and welcomed families back to the zoo.

Louisiana Delta Community College launched a new data center technician program after Meta contractors reached out, offering a three- to four-week course with scholarships.

The college will hold an informational meeting on Monday, Feb. 9 at 1 p.m. for prospective students with a high school diploma (ensuring hands-on training).

ULM construction management students built a 12-by-34-foot float for this Saturday’s Mardi Gras parade (their first float project), with 100 students including many freshmen using hands-on engineering to showcase their teamwork on the streets.

Monroe officials announced that all parks remain open with restricted areas as cleanup continues after Winter Storm Fern.

West Monroe officials reported that Restoration Park opened Friday while Lazarre Park will open Monday — Kiroli Park is closed pending further cleanup.

Monroe and West Monroe officials said parks are still recovering after damage from last weekend’s winter storm in Ouachita Parish.

Recovery efforts across the area are expected to continue as repairs remain underway.

West Monroe police are deploying 30 officers along parade routes this Saturday to secure festivities while urging residents to follow safety protocols+ such as using alternate driving routes and staying behind barricades for a safe celebration.

Costume and Orchestra are two 6-week-old puppies from a litter of seven now available for adoption at a local rescue center + community members may inquire for details at upcoming adoption events.

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.

Fashion Fusion 2026

7-10 p.m. — Monroe Civic Center — Benefit entry — Fashion meets dance in a runway show supporting local cancer patients.