Good morning, Monroe.

Wesby the eclectus parrot lives at Louisiana Purchase Gardens & Zoo in Monroe and brightens the daily exhibits that attract local visitors.

The bird is quickly becoming a local favorite among families and animal lovers.

Families with school-aged children may have unclaimed summer food benefits arriving by mail or already on their EBT cards, and residents are encouraged to check their eligibility details.

Assistance may be available soon as the program seeks to reach all eligible households.

Wesby, an eclectus parrot at Louisiana Purchase Gardens & Zoo in Monroe, delights visitors with his colorful feathers and lively behavior.

The zoo showcases him as part of its ongoing effort to offer an engaging experience for the community.

Twin Cities unveiled a series of events marking America's 250th celebration.

The schedule included streaming sessions on Monday (4:00 p.m.) and Tuesday (9:00 a.m.) across local platforms.

Heavy rain and flooding persist today along and south of Interstate 20; a tropical disturbance is expected to form in the northwestern Gulf before bringing more rain to northern and central Louisiana and Mississippi Thursday through Friday.

Families with school-aged children may have extra food benefits added to their SNAP cards or receive a new card by mail.

SUN Bucks provides $120 per eligible child this summer for use at SNAP retailers, must be used within 122 days, and the benefit application closes on Aug. 20.

Doctors advise that to prevent yard work injuries you should stretch, take a short warm-up walk, keep your back straight + use your legs to lift heavy items.

They say it is normal to feel sore, but seek care if pain lasts for more than a week.

VCOM-Louisiana received two grants totaling $234,000 to fund its CAREPATH Mobile Medical Unit & Disaster Relief Response Facility at 3610 Concordia Street in Monroe.

Construction began in early June, and the facility is expected to begin operations by the end of 2026.