Good morning, Monroe.

The Calhoun Civic Club broke ground last week on West Ouachita Wellness Park — a project planned for two decades and estimated to cost $300,000.

The park is set to serve local residents once completed.

The Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities awarded $200,000 in grants to 24 groups in 17 parishes—three of which are in Northeast Louisiana—to help cover operating costs.

In Northeast Louisiana, Friends of the Delta Music Museum received $5,000, the Jena Band of Choctaw Indians got $10,000, and the Northeast Louisiana Arts Council was awarded $10,000.

Sookie is a one-week-old baby aoudad at Louisiana Purchase Gardens and Zoo in Monroe, where the species is known as Barbary sheep for its curved horns and strong climbing ability.

The zoo will feature her as an ambassador in its petting zoo and educational programs—highlighting an engaging way for visitors to learn about these unique animals.

Monroe has launched a centralized business hub at 1401 Stubbs Avenue that combines Planning and Urban Development, Engineering, Tax & Revenue, and Utility Billing offices to improve city services.

Residents can visit the Open House and Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony on May 16th from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., with the ribbon cutting at 12:00 p.m.

West Monroe Mayor Staci Mitchell is reviewing tax exemption bills and warns that state lawmakers may expand exemptions on food, beverage, and prescription items, a change that could cut the city’s revenue stream + she urges officials to protect this vital source of funding.

Louisiana House passed a bill to remove licensing requirements for natural hair braiders who do not use chemicals or heat treatments, and the measure now heads to the Senate.

If signed into law, the change will lessen financial burdens and boost opportunities—helping braiders earn a living without costly training.

Oak Grove's senior baseball team won its fifth straight state title on May 14 by defeating OCS 4 to 1 in the championship game — preserving an unbeaten record this season.

The team, which has not lost a game, celebrated a perfect run in a tightly contested match.

North Louisiana Quilters Guild Monthly Meeting

6:30-8:00 p.m. — 2407 Ferrand St, Monroe, LA — Free entry — Engage with fellow quilting enthusiasts during this monthly gathering.

Kitten Shower

10 AM – 4 PM — Ouachita Valley Branch Library — Free admission — Celebrate kittens with snuggles, refreshments, and educational demonstrations.

Pre-Father's Day Blues Show

6-11:59 p.m. — The Hub Event Venue — General Admission $33.85, VIP $81.88 — Experience vibrant blues music on the Creed & Creed Stage before Father's Day.