Good morning, Monroe.

The third annual Magnolia Maker’s Market will take place on Saturday, Nov.

22 — local makers will display and sell handmade crafts in Monroe.

The Land of Lights in downtown West Monroe will open tomorrow, November 20, offering a free walk-through light display at the corner of Cotton and Pine Street.

The exhibit runs nightly from 5:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. until January 1—Christmas characters will also make special photo appearances on some Saturday nights.

ULM President Dr. Carrie Castille was named Grand Marshal for the 2026 Krewe de Riviere Mardi Gras parade and will lead the event on February 7 — she began her role at ULM earlier this year and brings more than 30 years of public service, including a groundbreaking leadership role at the U.S. National Institute of Food and Agriculture.

Monroe City Schools is expanding its after school program with a new initiative called “Restoring the Power of the Village”—a plan to improve communication, rebuild trust, and offer parents tools to support their children’s education.

The district will host a workshop in January to answer questions and gather feedback before the program launches in the spring.

Entergy is building a gas powered plant in Rayville to supply power for the Meta Data Center as community members expressed both support and environmental concerns during the permits meeting.

Supporters say the project will boost economic development—while critics warn that increased emissions could harm health, and a final decision will be announced later.

The Louisiana Purchase Gardens and Zoo in Monroe features Eastern box turtles that have box-shaped shells for safety and feel, and these turtles are common in Louisiana—experts note they generally wander on land and lay 7 to 14 eggs underground.

The reptiles do not swim well but cool off in bayous and rivers when needed.

Lewin’s Jamaican Cuisine food truck began serving authentic Caribbean dishes made from scratch in northeast Louisiana on November 18—bringing a taste of Jamaica to local streets.

Trenton Bend subdivision on Trenton Street now welcomes buyers of all ages — it shifts from a retirement focus to offer opportunities for those looking to buy or build a home.

The ULM water ski team placed second at the 46th Syndicate Collegiate Water Ski National Championships in El Centro on Oct.

18, earning 12,195 points in its 47th consecutive appearance at the tournament. Captains noted strong team spirit as the men's team also won the trick category by edging out competitors.

TCB Nutcracker Tea & Matinee

9:30 AM – 12:00 PM — Monroe Civic Center — Children 2 and under are free — Enjoy breakfast with Clara and the Nutcracker cast followed by a delightful matinee performance.

Monroe Jingle Bell Run

7-11 a.m. — Forsythe Park — Registration fee applies — Celebrate the season with a festive 5K and Half-Marathon while promoting community fitness.

Newsong Christmas Volunteer Event

3:30-7 p.m. — Ouachita Parish High School — Free entry — Spread some holiday cheer by volunteering at this community-driven Christmas event.