Good morning, Monroe.

The Ouachita Herb Society has announced the Spring Herb Faire— a festival featuring the sale of herbs and plants, and more details on timing and location will be provided soon.

A Monroe man lost his life when his vehicle veered off I-20 in Calhoun on April 6 and struck a tree, causing fatal injuries to rear-seat passenger Alford Gallagher while driver Patrick Gallagher was seriously injured and taken to a nearby hospital—Louisiana State Police Troop F are investigating the incident.

On April 7, the Hotel Monroe held a job fair to hire between 50 and 100 full and part-time employees including front desk agents and housekeepers—employee benefit packages are valued up to $6,000.

The hotel is taking June reservations starting at $275 a night and is expected to bring an initial economic boost of about one million dollars that will grow to around $10 million during its first year.

Love the Boot Week 2025 runs from April 5 to 13 — Louisiana’s largest litter removal and beautification effort spans 64 parishes.

Monroe residents are encouraged to join a cleanup or pick up trash daily to help protect waterways and wildlife.

Renovations continue at the Ouachita Parish Courthouse despite flood damage from significant rain over the weekend, and the facility remains open for public use.

The project costs $1.2 million (funded by left-over ARPA dollars) and will complete in six months despite minor setbacks on floors and ceilings.

Monroe officials opened the expansion of its water treatment plant — the upgrade will improve the plant’s capacity to meet the needs of local residents.

Martin Kolman, a former world champion and ULM alumnus, is named the new head coach of the ULM Water Ski team.

He will officially start in September+ his onboarding is underway as he prepares the team for future national championships.

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.

Red, White & Blue Airshow

Gates open 3 p.m. May 2-3, 11 a.m. May 4 — Chennault Aviation & Military Museum — Ticket prices vary — Experience thrilling aerial performances saluting America's heroes.

Byron Daniel and The Five Dead Dogs Live

9 p.m. – 1 a.m. — Enoch's Pub and Grill — Entry fee TBA — Experience the vibrant sounds of Southeast Louisiana with Byron Daniel and his band.

Open House at Charming Double Wide

7-9 p.m. — 3815 Elm St, Monroe, LA — Free entry — Discover the potential of a charming double wide mobile home perfect for investors or future homeowners.