Good morning, Monroe.

Just before noon Friday, a Monroe Fire Department truck passing on Highway 165 spotted smoke at a Cole Avenue home and quickly evacuated two occupants from a backyard fire that caused minor damage while investigators suspect smoking materials left unextinguished sparked the blaze.

The West Monroe-West Ouachita Chamber of Commerce announced that West Monroe began building a new 7 Brew Coffee drive-thru store offering 20,000 drink combinations at 105 Thomas Rd, formerly Grandy’s Restaurant.

Parents and caregivers can attend a free Connected Parent Workshop led by Dr. Emily Jones at the Northeast Louisiana Children's Museum on Tuesday, March 17 from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m. (registration is required) while children enjoy supervised STEM and creative activities and a chance at a free family pass.

On Thursday at 5:30 a.m. a 4.9 earthquake struck north Louisiana (6.2 miles west of Edgefield and 3.1 miles deep), marking the state’s second-largest quake, the USGS reported.

State Rep. Francis Thompson proposed a bill to expand Monroe’s Walnut Street District two blocks west toward Art Alley & the Ouachita River to boost local economic development, with discussions including a potential hotel in the Candy Company building.

Fashion Fusion will soon raise funds for the Cancer Foundation League—a nonprofit that helps local cancer patients access financial aid—through a dance and fashion event.

The benefit is expected to bring community members together to support a vital cause.

Frito-Lay recalled some 8-ounce Miss Vickie's Spicy Dill Pickle Potato Chips for a milk allergen risk, affecting bags sold at local retailers in Monroe since Jan.

15 — consumers with milk allergies are urged not to use the product.

Two kittens, Aux and Keys, are now available for adoption at the local shelter—Aux is energetic and loves adventures, while Keys prefers quiet observation from her high cat tower and occasional snuggles.

Local residents can consider giving these friendly pets a loving home.

Deigh is a sweet pet who is a bit skittish until he warms up + local shelters invite community members to learn more about giving him a forever home.

Walk Around the Block for Autism

1-5 p.m. — Northeast Louisiana State Office Building (Back Parking Lot) — Registration required — Participate in a community walk to support autism awareness and enjoy a fun expo.