Monroe police are investigating a fatal shooting that claimed the life of a 20-year-old man Monday in what authorities believe may be connected to an earlier incident. Clay Smith, 20, was fatally shot outside a residence on Breece Circle near…
Author: Free Press
Muhammad says council members last to know about murders
Monroe City Council member Verbon Muhammad voiced strong concerns Tuesday about the lack of communication between law enforcement and elected officials following serious crimes in their districts, announcing plans to introduce an ordinance addressing the issue. During Tuesday’s council meeting,…
Monroe tax extension passes amid stark racial divide+
The City of Monroe’s 1% Capital Infrastructure Sales Tax renewal passed with 59% approval on December 7, but the election results revealed deep racial divisions within the community over infrastructure spending priorities. The tax, expected to generate $18.8 million annually,…
Got a city problem? Call Marie
Monroe City Council has appointed L. Marie Brown as its new community relations assistant, fulfilling a campaign promise to improve responsiveness to citizen concerns. Brown, who will serve all five council members, operates from the Powell Street Neighborhood Center. In…
Services pending for noted choir director, Carolyn Billups
Carolyn Reynolds Billups, a cherished figure in Monroe’s church music community, passed away Thursday, December 5th, following an extended illness. She was 68. Billups dedicated her life to sacred music, serving as choir director for numerous churches throughout the Monroe…
Columbia service set for “Hot Shot’s” daughter, Veronica “Papoose” Adams
Services for Veronica Renee “Papoose” Adams-Santaella, 68, formerly of Columbia, La., will be held Saturday, December 21, 2024, at 2:00 PM at Covenant Worship Center, 237 Hill Street, Columbia, Louisiana. Mrs. Adams-Santaella passed away Monday, December 9, 2024, at the…
Rebecca Williams, 71, services set for Saturday at Free Gift
Services for Rebecca Williams, 71, will be held Saturday, December 14, 2024, at 2:00 PM at Greater Free Gift Baptist Church, 5510 US Highway 165 South. Mrs. Williams passed away Thursday, December 5, 2024. Visitation will be Friday, December 13,…