Good morning, Monroe.

The Northeast Louisiana DAR has launched an effort to collect used plastic bags to make benches for veterans at the Veterans Home & Ouachita Green has joined to boost the project.

It takes 1,000 pounds of plastic for each bench and the group plans to create at least 10 benches while community members can drop off bags at the Chennault Aviation Museum or outside Restoration Park from Tuesday to Saturday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Sheila Downhour from Ouachita Green appeared on Good Morning ArkLaMiss to explain how local residents can help recycle and support beautification projects in Ouachita Parish — she noted the organization partners with groups like Keep Monroe Beautiful and Town of Sterlington — and urged community participation.

The Ouachita Parish Sheriff’s Office warned residents about a scam where callers tell them to show up in court to pay for missed jury duty — residents should call 318.329.1200 if they receive such calls.

Monroe City Council voted against Timothy Williams as next fire chief on June 10 because some members worried that his experience from a smaller fire department might not fit Monroe’s larger system — Mayor Ellis said Williams’s over 20 years of service and high chief test score made him a top candidate — and the final vote was 3 to 1.

Pinnacle Health in West Monroe will host an HIV testing event on June 26 and 27 at 101 Crosley Street—open to residents aged 13–64 who can get tested and be entered to win $1,500.

The event aims to encourage early detection and prevention to help reduce HIV spread.

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.

Open House at 116 Bordeaux Drive

7-9 p.m. — 116 Bordeaux Dr, West Monroe, LA — Free entry — Explore a charming home with spacious rooms and an inviting atmosphere, perfect for summer relaxation.

JSE Team Camp: High School Basketball Showcase

12-5 p.m. — West Monroe Sports & Events — Ticket fees apply — Showcase your basketball skills at Louisiana's only NCAA-approved event for high school teams.