Good morning, Monroe.

After a Nov. 19 accident on U.S. Hwy 90 near Dayton, monk Bhante Dam Phommasan had his leg amputated today due to his injuries (he is now under medical care) while the Walk for Peace group resumes its trek through Jonesville.

Louisiana Works announced changes to unemployment benefits that require claimants to complete five work-search activities per week for new claims filed on or after Jan.

4. Governor Jeff Landry signed Act 151 on Dec. 31 to help jobseekers return to work.

DOTD reminds drivers to follow speed limits amid holiday travel as repairs continue on I-20 west of Ruston while smaller projects take place elsewhere across the region.

Local officials warn that construction and heavy traffic call for extra caution.

Phone lines and internet are currently down at Benoit Community Center (as well as Saul Adler Community Center and Chennault Golf Course), but staff are available in person to help while more updates are expected.

Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center will host free prostate and colon cancer screenings this Saturday in Monroe — offering essential tests for early detection.

The CDC reports Louisiana leads the nation in flu cases as a new variant makes it harder for vaccines to work.

Local doctor Richard Camm advises washing hands regularly (especially in public places) to help curb the spread.

Seven local high school football teams will vie in the semifinals as Ouachita faces Neville, Zachary meets Ruston, St. James plays Sterlington, Union competes with Jena and South Plaquemines squares off with Mangham, with games leading up to the dome.

A local pigskin expert has shared picks to guide fans.

University of Louisiana Monroe introduced S.J.

Tuohy as its new athletic director (succeeding former AD John Hartwell and interim AD Bryant Vincent) on Thursday, Dec. 4 at the campus.

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.