Good morning, Monroe.

United Way of Northeast Louisiana began its 2025 Campaign on September 8—residents in Monroe are invited to watch a special video to learn more about this year’s drive.

The NELA Children’s Museum in Monroe will host Louisiana Jonesie on September 13th at 2 p.m. who will lead a 45-minute interactive session teaching children how archaeologists uncovered the 3400-year-old Poverty Point earthworks.

The Ouachita River Blues Society announced it will host its 3rd annual Blues Challenge on September 28th at the Krewe of Janus den — on Louisville Avenue.

It is accepting entries in bands and solo/duo categories — local winners will earn a chance to represent the region at the International Blues Challenge in Memphis in January.

Today the City of Monroe is holding an online auction with vintage doors, tables, and other furniture found during the cleanup of the old Ouachita Candy Company building—bids will help fund repairs on the Cooley House, a key local historic site.

The auction closes Friday at 5:00 p.m. and buyers can pick up items on Saturday or Sunday.

Governor Landry agreed to pay a $900 fine for failing to disclose nearly 20 complimentary trips costing over $13,000—one trip in 2021 took him to Hawaii on a donor’s private plane that was not reported to the State Board of Ethics.

Louisiana’s former governor and U.S. Senator Huey P.

Long was shot at the state capitol in Baton Rouge on Sept 8, 1935 and died two days later at age 42.

The Wellness Center will host an open house on September 15 offering free classes and tours with a fitness demonstration by Amy Moore—renowned for her Movement Monday sessions.

Community members will learn proper exercise techniques to improve health—gaining insights on safe lower body workouts.

The 9th Annual River Rat Paddle Challenge will be held on Sept.

20 on the scenic Ouachita River—racers of all ages can join timed and non-timed 7.7 mile paddles. Participants must register by Sept. 15 with a fee of $40.

Yesterday, ULM’s football team lost to No. 21 Alabama 73—0 in Tuscaloosa as they struggled in their first road game; the Warhawks will meet UTEP on Sept.

20 at 8 p.m. CT.

The 9th Annual River Rat Paddle Challenge will take place on Sept.

20 — racers will compete on a 7.7-mile course using paddleboards, canoes, or kayaks with required life jackets, and a Mini Mouse Paddle event will cover 2.9 miles from Forsythe Boat Dock to Lazarre Park. Organizers said registration will close on Sept. 15 with a $40 fee, and proceeds will benefit the Kiroli Foundation and ACE Charter School.

Water Sweep 2025

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

The Hilarity House Showcase

6-11:59 p.m. — Enoch's Irish Pub — $15 General Admission, $125 VIP Table — Enjoy a night of laughter with a lineup of talented comedians.

Northeast Louisiana Celtic Festival

10 a.m. - 5 p.m. — Kiroli Park — Free entry — Celebrate Celtic culture with live music, activities for all ages, and unique artisan vendors.