Good morning, Monroe.

Today, the Monroe Civic Center hosts the 2025 NELA Music Awards from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m.—upcoming events include the inaugural ILoveSeafoodFest at Monroe RiverMarket from August 15 to 17, the 4th Annual Reaper Fest and an open mic at Sugar Gallery on August 15, and Meet the Warhawks plus Gin Mobsters Live at Enoch’s on August 16.

Bowl & Bling is returning as a fundraiser for Wellspring on August 22 at Bayou Bowl in Monroe, with $100 tickets for bowlers and $50 tickets for non-bowlers supporting unhoused individuals and survivors of domestic abuse.

KNOE and Trinity Diamonds Direct sponsor the event and DJ TBayB will provide music along with food and drinks.

On October 25, the City of Monroe will host Rollin’ on the River — a free, family friendly event — at Downtown River Market — from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. — and it will feature local vendors, live music, food trucks, and a cocktail and mocktail contest for families and pets.

NBC 10’s Jadyn Maloney interviewed Mayor Staci Mitchell in the Mayor Minute segment + the video shows extra insights about her work.

City of West Monroe is planning to upgrade Crosley Street between Trenton Street and North 7th Street with a $500,000 sewer project—bids have already been requested—and a separate road and sidewalk project in design that has applied for state funding; no start dates are set as officials work to address increased usage and prepare for heavy rains.

The Ike Hamilton Expo will host the Louisiana Classic presented by Southern Reined Cow Horse Alliance from August 20 to 24—an elite western riding competition where riders will guide their horses through intricate patterns and show off their horsemanship.

Top competitors from the region will join the contest to test their skill.

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.

Miles for Motion 5K Color Run 2025

1-6 p.m. — ULM The Grove — Registration fee required — Participate in a vibrant color run organized by the Physical Therapy Student Association.

West Monroe Gar Rodeo

5 PM — Downtown West Monroe La — Registration fees apply — Experience the thrill of fishing for Louisiana's ancient gar in a lively community competition.

Recovery Movie Screening: 28 Days

1-3:30 p.m. — Ouachita Parish Public Library - Main Branch — Free admission — Experience a powerful film about addiction, healing, and resilience.

Open House at 2504 Pargoud Landing

7-9 p.m. — 2504 Pargoud Landing — Free entry — Explore a beautifully maintained home featuring spacious living areas and outdoor charm.

Water Sweep 2025

8-10 a.m. — University of Louisiana Monroe — Free — Participate in a community cleanup followed by paddling and local activities.