Good morning, Monroe.

The Ouachita Parish Sheriff’s Office is asking the public to help find runaway juvenile Mercedes Lane White (16) who was last seen near Standifer Avenue wearing blue jeans and a gray t-shirt, and anyone with information should call (318)-329-1200.

Officers from Ouachita Parish searched for a suspect accused of robbing Casa Latina in West Monroe on or around March 15—he is a white/Hispanic male with a slender build measuring about 5'6—6' tall who was last seen turning south on Rowan Street and was deemed armed and dangerous by the sheriff's office.

90.3 KEDM Public Radio launched The Black Curtain, a new series that spotlights local music talent with live performances and interviews hosted by Cory Crowe—recorded at the station's state-of-the-art studios at ULM.

The video series premieres on social media—giving local music fans a fresh look at artists and their stories.

Sterlington High School is expanding its agriculture department with programs for trade skills—welding and carpentry.

As warmer weather and increased rain boost pest activity, Monroe pest control expert Paul Eikert warns that rodents, fire ants and wasps are moving in and advises residents to seal gaps in homes and clean outdoor play areas—local companies now offer free inspections to help prevent infestations.

The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries reported that a hunter-harvested white-tailed buck from Catahoula Parish tested positive for Chronic Wasting Disease—the first wild case found outside Tensas Parish.

Officials said that with a total of 34 cases recorded, hunters are advised to have their deer tested for free before consumption.

Two EF-1 tornadoes struck Caldwell Parish Saturday, with one in Columbia causing tree damage— and the other in Clarks damaging a barn and a home— while the NWS surveys the storm damage and confirms winds up to 100 mph.

Desiard Street was closed from South Grand to Walnut at 9:00 a.m. on March 17th to let Amethyst Construction install two new street drainage crossings—drivers heading east must detour via North or South Grand while those going west should use St. John.

Residents at the 141 Building are advised to exit on Walnut or turn left on Desiard to reach St. John.

USA BMX Cajun Nationals returns to Ike Hamilton Expo Center in West Monroe from March 21—23 to host pro and amateur BMX riders along with the USA Cycling Collegiate BMX Championships.

Entry and parking are free for fans.

Healthy Kids Society Featuring The Bellamy Brothers

This event showcases The Bellamy Brothers in support of the Healthy Kids Society at the WL Jack Howard Theatre in Monroe, LA.

Explore Monroe: An Adventurous Scavenger Hunt

Experience a self-guided scavenger hunt through Monroe, LA, uncovering local history, art installations, and hidden treasures while competing in fun photo challenges with your group.

On-Site Tour of Gardens of Somerset

9 a.m. - 7 p.m. | Gardens of Somerset | Free entry | Explore top-rated senior living options emphasizing quality care, meals, and engaging activities.

Louisiana Blue - Medicare Advantage Member Event

10 a.m. - 2 p.m. — Vantage Venues — Free entry — Engage in health screenings and informative seminars tailored for Medicare Advantage members.

Autism Acceptance Festival 5k and Fun Run

8:30 – 10:30 AM — Kiroli Park — Registration fee applies — Participate in a fun run to promote autism acceptance in the community.

ULM Spring Concert: BigXthaPlug

8-10 p.m. — Fant-Ewing Coliseum — Admission: Ticket Prices Vary — Celebrate the ULM Spring Fever Concert featuring the dynamic artist BigXthaPlug.

Louisiana Bayou Showdown

7:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. — West Monroe Sports & Events — $20 daily admission — Catch the excitement of competitive basketball matchups at the Inaugural Bayou Showdown.