Good morning, Monroe.

Monroe City Schools extended the contract of Superintendent Sam Wood III by the school board, ensuring continued leadership for local students.

Wiggin Out is hosting its annual fundraiser today to support cancer patients with wigs, lymphatic garments, headwear, and prosthetic bras.

Thirty elementary students in West Monroe enjoyed a holiday shopping spree on Thursday evening at Academy Sports + Outdoors, each receiving a $100 gift card through the annual Shop with a Cop event organized by West Monroe Police plus Academy, supporting kids from five local schools.

Santa’s Christmas Village returned to The Children’s Museum in Monroe offering holiday cheer until Dec.

23 with special Cocoa and Cookies with the Grinch on Sunday, Dec. 14 and regular Santa visits on weekends (tickets: $15/$20).

The Monroe City School Board voted not to require more signatures on the petition to convert Neville High School to a charter school; the board will review the proposal next month as Charter Association member Narissa Bryant said the move would earmark per-pupil funds for the school.

Insurance commissioner Tim Temple approved State Farm’s 5.9% auto rate decrease for over 1,066,000 policies & a 9.7% increase for more than 300,000 homeowners’ policies.

New auto policy changes apply Jan. 1 while existing homeowner adjustments start Dec. 15.

In a close state championship game, Haynesville beat Mangham 39 to 37 after stopping the Dragons twice in goal-to-go situations to win its 18th title.

Mangham, seeking its first championship since 1956, faltered with late conversion attempts in the final two minutes.

Sterlington and Jena are set for a Division III non-select state title game in Northeast Louisiana—Sterlington seeks back-to-back wins while Jena chases its first championship.

The Ruston Bearcats and Ouachita Lions will face off at the Dome on Saturday at noon in a state championship fight.

Ruston has played at the Dome four straight years while Ouachita returns for the first time since 1994.

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.