Good morning, Monroe.

Residents in Good Hope Hills are facing a growing illegal dumping problem that started in November and has led to piles of trash, attracting rodents and exposing an open utility structure (posing a drowning risk); police urge residents to report violations.

Hatchell’s Department Store in West Monroe opened on Apr.

14, 1937, fulfilling a vision by founders C.A. Mitchell and W.R. Hatchell (who had run dry goods stores in Tallulah, Winnsboro, Wisner, Rayville and Arcadia).

More than a month ago, DISH Network removed KNOE and KAQY after Gray Media extended extra time during severe weather and major events but DISH did not meet its terms.

Gray Media said DISH’s demands were too high + customers now use other services.

Harley, a red-shouldered hawk at Louisiana Purchase Gardens and Zoo, serves as ULM’s mascot and sometimes flies over the field before games.

Zookeeper Grace Scarbrough noted he migrates south in winter (fluffing his feathers to stay warm) and hunts during morning and evening hours.

The 10th annual Dragon Boat Festival kicked off with the Dotting of the Eye ceremony held on April 14 at Bayou Pointe, a 2,000-year tradition that blesses boats ahead of race day Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Bayou Desiard near the ULM campus.

Tuesday, Apr. 14, the House Education Committee advanced a bill that requires TOPS students who lose eligibility to repay funds already spent, exempting Honors and Excellence awards; the rules will affect high school graduates in the school year spanning 2025 to 2026.

ULM will host the investiture of its 10th president, Dr. Carrie L.

Castille, on Thursday, April 23 at 3:00 p.m. in Fant-Ewing Coliseum + a Presidential Gala at 7:00 p.m. at Bayou Pointe Event Center will follow, inviting ULM employees, students, and community members.

Political Science faculty and MPA students from ULM participated in the LPSA meeting on Friday, Feb.

27 at Northwestern State University in Natchitoches by presenting research and joining roundtable discussions (future conferences are planned for 2027).

Open Pottery Studio for Experienced Potters

5:30-7:30 p.m. — Clay & Canvas Art Studio — Cost varies — Refine your pottery skills in a supportive and creative environment.

Justin Moore: One Moore Night

7-11 p.m. — Fant-Ewing Coliseum — Beneficiary event — Experience an exclusive acoustic show supporting ULM student-athletes' success.

Do The Crawl de Mayo Pub Crawl

4:30-9 p.m. — Vibez Lounge — Tickets required — Celebrate Cinco de Mayo early with festive drinks, contests, and lively pub crawling in Downtown Monroe.

1st Sundays at The Zoo

3-9 p.m. — Louisiana Purchase Gardens & Zoo — Free parking — Experience a vibrant evening with live performances, great food, and backyard fun.