Good morning, Monroe.

Restoration Park will host its Annual Night fundraiser on August 7 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. where guests will enjoy small bites and drink tastings.

Louisiana Purchase Gardens & Zoo has welcomed a new Brahman calf, India, which visitors can soon see in the petting zoo (the breed is known for four sweat glands and a fat hump that aids in dry, hot conditions) and volunteers are invited to join zoo programs.

Monroe will host the Louisiana Municipal Association Convention from Aug.

4 — 6 with over 1,000 city leaders expected to boost local business and generate over $1M — almost $1.5M in economic impact; the event includes a wellness session and a gardening display, and hotels will fill to capacity.

The USDA is awarding $35M to help control the growing feral hog population in Concordia, Madison, and Tensas to protect crops ahead of harvest season (farm experts warn hogs cause millions in damage each year).

The Ouachita Council of Governments renewed a five-year EMS contract with Acadian Ambulance to serve Ouachita Parish and Monroe after a competitive proposal process.

The new contract will take effect Dec. 31 and will ensure continuous emergency services.

Monroe Police remind e-bike riders to follow Louisiana law on local roads — operators must be at least 15 with a valid driver’s license, avoid sidewalks and highways, and Class 3 riders should wear helmets.

This guidance aims to keep traffic safe for everyone.

Doctors at St. Francis Medical Center report a surge in heat-related hospitalizations, with cases of dehydration and heat exhaustion rising as temperatures increase, and they urge residents to stay hydrated and cool during this hot spell.