Good morning, Monroe.

Kiroli Park in West Monroe reopened yesterday (after a six-month storm recovery), giving residents a refreshed and safe space for community gatherings and outdoor relaxation.

Elisha Ministries will host its fifth annual 5K Walk/Run on Sept.

5 to raise awareness for mental health, substance abuse + support local front-line workers.

Monroe hip-hop artist DeMorris Hamburg (Starringo) has gained nearly 400,000 followers for his music influenced by his daughter's birth and his faith.

He will release a new album later this year that explores community issues.

The West Monroe Brown Bag Lunch Concert Series returns this September with five free lunchtime shows held each Wednesday from noon to 1 p.m. at the Pavilion at Seventh Square — behind the West Monroe Farmers Market — where Newk’s Eatery sells bagged lunches on a first-come, first-served basis.

ULM and VCOM-Louisiana have strengthened their partnership with a Preferred Admission Track agreement that will give qualified ULM students early access to medical school at VCOM.

The program begins in the 2026-2027 school year.

Telisa Watkins, a Tallulah native, retired from the Army after 30 years in service — she advanced in military intelligence and the Adjutant General Corps to colonel and now mentors young leaders.

ULM Director of University Police Tom Torregrossa was named President of the Louisiana Association of Chiefs of Police on August 28 at ULM.

He spent 36 years with Monroe Police Department and will work to boost law enforcement training statewide + help smaller agencies.

NLMC reopened its northside clinic off Celebrity Drive and now accepts walk-in physicals and primary care appointments, with plans for vaccination and pediatric services soon.

Hospital officials are addressing CMS concerns and must submit a plan of correction by Oct. 28 — efforts persist despite a recent CEO resignation.

Friday at the 20th annual Bayou Jamb in Monroe, the Neville Tigers won 27-0 over West Monroe, setting a strong tone for their season.

The North Louisiana Sportsman’s Expo now expects about 105 vendors this year (up from 28 previously), offering more choices for local outdoor enthusiasts in the regional event.

Louisiana high school athletes can sign NIL deals without school permission under Act 810, which took effect on Aug.

1 and requires parent consent for minors while banning deals with alcohol, gambling, and other banned industries. Sports agents must also register and complete a state-approved training program to protect young players.