Good morning, Monroe.

Monroe City Councilman Verbon Muhammad authorized $6,000 to support local youth through the Seed of Change gardening project by Choices Mentoring for Families and Youth, which will revitalize neighborhoods + foster active community care.

The City of West Monroe has issued an RFP for a private developer to build and operate a two-story upscale restaurant on city-owned riverfront land (located at Wood Street).

Proposals will be accepted until Sept. 10.

The West Monroe Rebel Band has shifted its practice schedule to beat the intense summer heat, aiming to provide a more comfortable setting for rehearsals before upcoming shows.

Louisiana WIC clinics have begun giving out new EBT cards that families will use on August 1 at WIC-approved grocery stores.

Participants must choose a PIN+by calling the number on their card or using the myWIC app to complete the switch to the updated benefit system.

A new law banning outdoor balloon releases will take effect Saturday, Aug.

1. Representative John Illg introduced the measure to combat environmental harm from balloon litter — violators face fines up to $500 or eight hours of community service, with harsher penalties for repeat offenses.

LifeShare Monroe is asking local donors to give blood, plasma and platelets amid a national shortage.

Donations are used for transfusions, emergency care and treatment of blood disorders (a critical need as summer donation rates drop).