Good morning, Monroe.

Director Tarquin Smart at Green Oaks Juvenile Detention Center said vital education and mental health services are provided with funds from a $5 million local property tax — while overcrowding remains, prompting community advocates to push for reallocating funds toward early preventative programs.

Monroe’s public-private fiber partnership is in the running for a national panel spotlight at SXSW 2027 — community members may vote online until Aug.

23 to help Mayor Friday Ellis secure the nomination.

School counselors advise students and teachers to focus on mental health as classes resume by adopting daily stress-relief habits (like reading, walking or journaling) to ease back-to-school anxiety.

School officials encourage seeking professional guidance if needed.

Due to record heat and dry weather, West Monroe banned grill use at city parks until sufficient rain improves conditions.

The Parks and Recreation team worked with the Fire Department & will allow grill use when drought conditions ease.