Good morning, Monroe.

Annabelle is a calm, loving dog who gets along well with kids, adults, cats and other dogs and is available for adoption at the Ouachita Parish Animal Shelter — visitors can check the shelter Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The University of Louisiana Monroe’s College of Pharmacy received $2 million in supplemental funding from the state Legislature (2025 regular session).

The ULM Computer Science program sent four student teams to compete at the Nexus Technology Cup finals in Baton Rouge from June 17th to 19th.

One team called Dristi—which was created by Unika Bista and Divya Shah under Dr. Prasanthi Sreekumari’s guidance—won third place and a $5,000 cash prize for its AI-powered mobile app that helps visually impaired users.

Gov. Jeff Landry signed a law last month that raises fines for misdemeanor DWIs and triggers the right to a jury trial when fines exceed $1,000.

Defense attorneys warn the change may overload district courts—municipal cases could be transferred if juries are needed.

Senator Bill Cassidy’s Halt Fentanyl Act changed fentanyl drugs to schedule 1 and added tougher penalties for trafficking when it was signed into law on July 16—Louisiana activist Lilly Harvey, who helped push a similar law, said the next step is to improve enforcement and support rehab programs.

Glenwood Regional Medical Center said it is aware of a lawsuit filed by Steward Health Care on July 17 against former CEO Dr. Ralph de la Torre and other former officials for allegedly enriching themselves at the expense of the company, its patients, and the community—operations remain unaffected since Healthcare Systems of America took over the hospital in September 2024. The statement comes amid ongoing local and national scrutiny of past management issues at Steward Health Care.

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.

The Atomic Two Miler

7:30-9 p.m. — Forsythe Park Boat Launch — Check website for registration fees — Experience a unique night run behind the levee across from Forsythe Park.