Good morning, Monroe.

United Way of Northeast Louisiana and KNOE partnered to launch a fundraiser for families hit by Winter Storm Fern, raising $28,875 (as of yesterday 2 p.m.).

Entergy will match corporate donations up to $25,000 to support the relief effort.

The U.S. Small Business Administration said it is boosting support for local small businesses (NELA) by offering new assistance measures.

More details on the program will be shared soon.

The U.S. Small Business Administration is offering loans up to $2 million with rates as low as 4% to small businesses impacted by the recent ice storm in NELA; affected businesses are urged to apply by Nov.

2.

KEDM Parish Playlist is set to feature live music events this Valentine’s weekend in Monroe at local venues.

Organizers plan performances starting Saturday, Feb. 14 with more details coming soon.

The University of Louisiana Monroe hosted its first Madi Gras parade today as part of a week of campus events that included a field day, mask painting, and movie showing (designed to bring the student body together) with student leaders hoping the parade becomes an annual tradition.

Ruston High School student Wyatt Terry performed at Carnegie Hall in New York on Feb.

8 (part of the Honors Performance Series featuring top 9th–12th grade performers worldwide) and his performance follows five years of music study and active participation in the Ruston Community Theatre.

City officials updated Monroe residents that crews are removing storm debris from streets affected by severe winter weather; work will continue in additional areas soon.

Nutritionist Jen Avis joined Good Morning ArkLaMiss to advise that starting meals with protein can help lower blood sugar, boost metabolism and support muscle maintenance.

Lane Regional and Woman’s Hospital join Project MOM, a statewide effort that will cut accidental overdose deaths among pregnant and postpartum mothers by 80% in three years + the program offers quick access to naloxone and coordinated care with perinatal navigators.

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.