Good morning, Monroe.

Festive events are planned across the ArkLaMiss region this season—Monroe hosts the Stuff-A-Bus from today through Dec 5 with toy drop-offs at local malls, while other towns will hold parades, concerts, and open houses through Dec 19.

Residents are encouraged to participate in the celebrations to share holiday spirit across the region.

The Dixie Center for the Arts will host holiday music events this December.

On December 10, famous guitarist Tommy Emmanuel will perform at 7 p.m.—a Christmas Blues show with local acts is set for December 12 and a free Russ-Town Christmas concert will follow on December 18.

Louisiana Delta Community College expanded its diesel technology program by opening a new diesel shop today on its West Monroe campus—this move gives students more hands-on training and helps them secure high-demand technician jobs.

Lead instructor Rock Frost said the larger shop lets more students work at the same time to improve their job prospects.

Louisiana Insurance Commissioner Tim Temple met with Northeast Louisiana residents and business owners Tuesday afternoon in West Monroe to address concerns about insurance affordability and policy changes affecting coverage — local organizers said the roundtable is the first of many planned future discussions.

Doctors in Monroe report a rise in flu, COVID-19 and other respiratory illnesses as winter nears, noting early signs from recent ER visits.

They advise families, schools and workplaces to get vaccines, wash hands and cover coughs—simple steps to slow the spread.

St. Francis Health honored families of organ donors in a ceremony where they hung ornaments in memory of loved ones (including the Loftin family who lost their son in 2021) and held a candlelight vigil.

The event aimed to encourage clear discussions about organ donation wishes.

Javon Vital, the multi-sport star from Hamilton, transferred to LCCP on Dec.

2 and is preparing to join his new team as competitions begin.

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.

The Nutcracker - World Ballet Company Performance

6-7:30 p.m. — WL Jack Howard Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Experience the magic of Christmas with this enchanting ballet filled with beautifully choreographed performances and a whimsical storyline.