Good morning, Monroe.

The Fancy Like LG Memorial Scholarship—created to honor 12-year-old dancer Lyla Grace who died in 2022—is supporting young dancers in Northeast Louisiana with an $800 award paid monthly from September to May and covering the registration fee in August.

Applications are open until July 15.

Aired yesterday on Louisiana Living, Ashley Doughty joined Kenya Ross to discuss upcoming Twin Cities events — the segment informed viewers about local happenings.

Ruston Junior High School will upgrade its security with new gates, body scanners, and another resource officer by August to prepare for more traffic as Buc-ee’s will open late next year—officials expect 15,000 cars each week to pass nearby.

UL Monroe has received critical state funding that will allow Sugar Hall to be renovated for its health science programs – the improvements will give students upgraded labs and classrooms.

The University of Louisiana Monroe is on pace for increased enrollment this fall with more full-time students and first-time freshmen expected after completing two summer orientation sessions; a third session is underway including a global session for international students — officials said enrollment numbers will shift until the semester begins.

The City of Monroe will host its annual State of the City event tomorrow at 6 p.m. at the Jack Howard Theater with doors opening at 5 p.m. for a special pre-event reception.

Mayor Friday Ellis and city department heads will share updates on progress and future priorities — local talent including spoken word poet Larry Bell, Jr. and Justus Bell will perform.

After the signing of the Big Beautiful Bill Act, SNAP benefit changes with funding shifts and new work requirements will soon take effect while local food banks prepare for increased demand after federal budget cuts have cut food shipments and local produce funds.

The Food Bank of Northeast Louisiana remains short on supplies and urges community help—state officials note that new workforce programs will protect child benefits.

Home Buyer Workshop in Monroe, LA

11 a.m. – 2 p.m. — Hilton Garden Inn West Monroe — Free resources available — Discover how to build your dream home in Monroe's new subdivision with expert guidance and assistance.