Good morning, Monroe.

Ouachita Green is accepting nominations for its annual Awards Luncheon (recognizing businesses, organizations, law enforcement and youth who strengthen our community) and the event will be held on Wednesday, Aug.

26 at 11:30 a.m. at the West Monroe Convention Center.

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L.

Rollins announced new upgrades to disaster relief and commodity loan programs (effective Jan. 1) under the Working Families Tax Cuts Act to support farmers facing natural disasters and market shifts. Producers can contact their local FSA office for details.

Local leaders remembered State Senator Larry Selders (44) who died Tuesday evening, saying he crossed political divides and earned respect from peers.

Louisiana now requires anyone helping student-athletes with NIL deals to register, pass a background check and complete training as per Act 895 signed by Gov. Jeff Landry; additional rules for high school NIL deals including parental consent and industry restrictions take effect Aug. 1.

Ruston and West Monroe are competing in a friendly challenge to collect blood donations with LifeShare (a community blood bank) to support patients needing emergency treatments, cancer care, and transplants.

The local event highlights community efforts to save lives.

Dermatologists note that skin cancer—the most common cancer—is highly preventable and advise Monroe residents to use sunscreen and protective clothing as annual cases top 5 million.

They stress that sun safety helps reduce risks.

St. Francis Medical Group opened a new clinic near ULM at 105 University Ave that offers family medicine, obstetrics, pediatrics, geriatrics, sports medicine and osteopathic manipulative care; walk-ins are welcome Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and a ribbon-cutting ceremony is scheduled for Wednesday, July 22 at noon.

Renters in Northeast Louisiana have trouble securing apartments as high demand forces quick decisions, with ULM student Riley Turner planning months ahead.

Local real estate agent Brian Avara advises keeping documents ready amid rising competition driven by economic growth near Monroe.

NELA Legacy Color Run

8 a.m. — Forsythe Park — Registration required — Enjoy a vibrant day of running with options for all ages in the heart of Monroe.