Good morning, Monroe.

Steve Harris turned his life around after hitting rock bottom on April 17 — his community provided the support that sparked his fresh start.

His story shows how neighborly help can make all the difference.

The Children’s Coalition for Northeast Louisiana is hosting its annual Dragon Boat Festival today at 1 Warhawk Way on the bayou from 9:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M.

Families can race & spectate while enjoying food from local vendors to support programs for children.

The University of Louisiana Monroe Jazz Ensemble will present Jazz 4 Kidz on Wednesday, Apr.

22 at 12:00 p.m. at Brown Auditorium — this 50-minute concert introduces children to jazz through big-band arrangements of Disney, Broadway and classic tunes; admission is free.

Riser Middle School in West Monroe held a pep rally featuring games, music and a 3-on-3 basketball tournament to boost morale ahead of LEAP testing on April 29.

School officials said the event eased stress and rallied community support — a key step in preparing students for their exams.

Due to a water leak that left the campus without running water or air conditioning, Neville High School canceled Thursday classes and held virtual learning on Friday, April 17.

ULM Honors Program students attended the Southern Regional Honors Council meeting in Montgomery, Ala. on March 26-28, 2026 (presenting research and leadership projects).

Their work will guide future academic and community efforts at ULM.

ULM School of Education earned a $30,000 grant from the Regions Foundation — the donation boosts its Elevate Education program designed to build a teaching pipeline for local high school students.

The grant was presented during the campus visit day on Apr. 1 in Monroe.

Lawmakers debated a bill that would require Medicaid to cover FDA-approved weight-loss drugs; about 145,000 Medicaid adults could qualify while the state examines costs and long-term savings from lowering obesity rates.

The proposal will go to a full committee review and may take effect Jan. 1, 2027.

Paws of NELA introduced Stewart, a shy 3-4 month-old pet who needs a patient adopter on Apr.

17. Locals in Monroe interested in giving him a warm home can reach out to the group for more details.

Humane Society Adoption Center director Terri Matthews said that Winnie and Wyatt (8-week-old pets) are available for adoption, and interested residents can visit the center for more details.

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.

Troy Trojans vs. Louisiana Monroe Warhawks Baseball

1-3 p.m. — University of Louisiana Monroe — Free entry — Watch exciting college baseball action between Troy and ULM Warhawks.