Good morning, Monroe.

Hope House in West Monroe is asking for food and cleaning supplies (items needed to support the homeless).

Local donors are encouraged to drop off their contributions soon.

A Flatwoods man rescued his neighbors from a burning home on Apr.

28, 2026 + residents praised his quick actions that prevented further damage.

Cliff Thomas is stepping down as NAACP president for Monroe/Ouachita Parish after two years to lead Mainline Ministry, and Councilman Verbon Muhammad Sr. is set to take over the role to boost local voter registration efforts.

The Northeast Louisiana Children’s Museum announced a new future home at the corner of Forsythe Avenue and Broadmoor Boulevard (near Monroe Surgical Hospital) during its Donor Lift Off Breakfast.

Officials project a tentative opening by the end of 2027 to serve the region.

The University of Louisiana Monroe is set to launch StudyNPlay, a pilot program for students who are parents that will let them work near a supervised play area for their children on campus.

University officials say the initiative will support academic success (donations are needed to prepare the space).

Today, the Monroe Chamber of Commerce asked Monroe City Schools to explain a millage renewal proposal to raise over $9 million in ten years ahead of the May 16 ballot — requesting a detailed plan and moving the measure to November with evaluation until Sept.

1.

State Treasurer John Fleming expects a $293 million surplus at fiscal year-end and suggests returning the funds to taxpayers instead of spending them so that lower taxes will attract more companies and jobs — a challenge as businesses shift to states with no personal income taxes.

Applications for West Monroe's Homebuyer Assistance and Rehab programs close this week, offering up to $25,000 for first-time buyers and $20,000 for repairs, with forms available online and in person at City Hall, the Community Center, or the Senior Center.

Monroe will build its second all-inclusive playground at Forsythe Park as Mayor Friday Ellis says the project will expand on the Sister Margaret Ann Sanders-Jackson Playground at the Benoit Recreation Center, offering more play options for local families.

The Alzheimer’s Association has scheduled the Walk to End Alzheimer’s for Nov.

7 with check-in at 8:15 a.m. and a 9 a.m. start at The Grove on ULM’s campus in Monroe, so funds raised will support research, treatment, and families.

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.

Kitten Yoga Session

1:30-4:30 p.m. — Half Moon Studio — Proceeds benefit River Cities Humane Society — Unwind with yoga while cute kittens play around you.

K-POP WARRIORS Live Show

3-7 p.m. — West Monroe Sports & Events — Family-friendly fun — Enjoy a high-energy K-Pop-inspired show with music, dance, and colorful characters.