Morning
Monroe
Friday, March 21st, 2025
Good morning, Monroe. Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 21st of March.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ CASA of Northeast Louisiana is urgently seeking more volunteers in Ouachita Parish to help advocate for children in foster care, where more than 90 youngsters await a decision on whether to stay in care or return home. Brian Bendily, a volunteer for over two years, said the role is rewarding (CASA stands for Court-Appointed Special Advocates) and he believes more support (especially from local residents) will improve these children's futures. KNOE
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ On March 20, the West Monroe-West Ouachita Chamber of Commerce held its annual Small Business Awards Luncheon where local business leaders were honored and Origin Bank presented awards including Emerging Entrepreneurs to Madison + Kaylea Coates of Corner Coffee + Provisions. KNOE
CRIME NEWS
- ➤ On March 20, four people were sentenced for gun charges in Ouachita Parish and received a total of 15 years in prison (three from Monroe and one from Memphis) after being stopped on traffic violations and in a pawn shop theft. KNOE
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Local celebrities danced in the 16th annual Dancing With the Louisiana Stars held Thursday night to raise funds for the Louisiana Delta Ballet that supports local arts. Winners Beaux Coleman and Grayce Sanders emerged from a contest featuring community leaders and business owners — showcasing Monroe's vibrant talent. KNOE
ECONOMY NEWS
- ➤ Franklin Parish leaders unveiled Develop Franklin—an Industrial Development Board designed to attract new industries and create jobs—at a recent Chamber meeting as part of a push following the Meta Project's regional economic boost. The board partners with Grow NELA—who responded to two development projects and submitted four sites for a potential Eli Lilly opportunity—and is expected to drive further business growth. KNOE
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Yesterday, March 20, Geaux Far Louisiana Coalition held the third day of its inaugural event at the Lincoln Parish Library to discuss early childhood funding and online access for families and providers with developmental disabilities — officials said virtual meetings let local voices be heard. The group will meet at the state capitol on April 15 to advocate for a family-driven system. KNOE
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ USA Boxing will host the Louisiana State Golden Gloves Tournament at West Monroe Recreation Center from March 22 to March 23 as the event starts at 6 p.m. on Saturday and 1 p.m. on Sunday; about 100 boxers will take part with an estimated economic impact of $91,893.88 and admission at $10 for adults and $5 for children — a weekend that promises exciting local competition. KEDM
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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