Here's your local news at a glance for Monday, the 14th of April.
Good morning, Shreveport.
Rapper 50 Cent signed a 30-year lease on Stageworks in downtown Shreveport with an option for a 15-year renewal to transform the former soundstage into a sports and entertainment venue—G-Unit Films must cover maintenance costs and follow lease rules that bar political or pornographic uses and require non-discriminatory hiring practices.
Shreveport Police are asking for help finding missing 12-year-old Zyra’Kem Copeland, who was last seen April 12th between 6:00 and 6:15 p.m. riding a red bicycle after leaving his home on the 2600 block of Valley Ridge Road—he is described as a black male with a short afro wearing a blue Spider-Man T-shirt, blue jeans, and mismatched shoes.
Film and Entertainment Commissioner Wade Marshall spoke with Brittney Hazelton about new film industry meetups aimed to boost Shreveport-Bossier's film scene—he said the area's unique culture and mention of stars like 50 Cent add to its appeal.
On Friday, the Bossier Sheriff's Office warned employers that hiring undocumented workers risked civil fines from $627 to $25,076 per employee and potential jail time of up to six months—business owners were advised to review I-9 forms, consult immigration attorneys, assist employees in finding legal counsel, and use E-Verify to confirm work eligibility. Local employers are encouraged to follow these steps to avoid severe penalties.
The North Louisiana Crime Lab in Shreveport was awarded the Foresight Maximus Award for the fourth consecutive year—recognizing its commitment to forensic excellence—and it continues to support criminal investigations with top-notch services.
Today, the Louisiana legislature begins its fiscal session with each lawmaker allowed to sponsor only five non-fiscal bills.
Lawmakers will focus on the state's insurance crisis as Insurance Commissioner Tim Temple discussed commercial auto insurance on a KTBS podcast last week.
Today, Louisiana lawmakers return to debate major issues at the Capitol including restructuring the Department of Transportation—aiming for faster project delivery—and supporting the Make America Healthy Again initiative while planning a state budget amid federal funding cuts.
They will discuss proposals such as combining state trust funds, adjusting teacher pay and auto insurance rates, and reviving parts of a failed constitutional amendment on state finances.
Louisiana lawmakers are proposing several bills to promote fortified roofs as a way to lower rising homeowners insurance costs amid an ongoing crisis.
The Legislature will review these measures today — including a $10,000 grant and tax incentives — to help ensure new roofs meet stronger standards.
Caddo and Bossier Parish lawmakers have filed numerous bills for the 2025 legislative session — proposals cover topics from crime to economic development, gaming, healthcare, energy, the environment, tax exemptions, education and election procedures.
Caddo Parish Animal Services will host a free drive-thru event on (Saturday, April 26) from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Summer Grove Baptist Church, where local residents with cats, dogs and ferrets must show proof of residency to receive one-year rabies vaccinations and free microchips on a first-come, first-served basis.
Golden Girls - The Laughs Continue
7-8:30 p.m. — The Strand Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy an outrageous new comedy featuring the beloved Golden Girls as they navigate a wild new chapter in their lives.
Candlelight: The Best of Hans Zimmer
6-7 p.m. — Scottish Rite Temple — Tickets selling fast — Experience the enchanting music of Hans Zimmer performed by a string quartet under candlelight.
Young Life's Fun-In-The-Sun Run 5k
8:00-10:15 a.m. — Young Life — Entry fee unknown — Participate in a vibrant community run to benefit camp experiences for local kids.
PMP Certification Training
9 AM – 5 PM — Hotel Shreveport Louisiana — $1599 — Transform your project management skills with 32 hours of hands-on training and certification preparation.
Shreveport Blues Festival
8:00-9:30 p.m. — Brookshire Grocery Arena — Enjoy soulful blues performances at the 17th Annual Shreveport Blues Festival.
Taco Wars Festival
Taco Wars — Daytime — Shreveport Municipal Auditorium — Entry TBA — Experience the Ark-La-Tex's biggest taco festival featuring local taquerias competing for the best taco and salsa!
No Guarantee Group Meeting
7-8 p.m. — St. Luke's United Methodist — Free entry — Participate in a welcoming discussion focused on recovery and support for newcomers.
Cinco de Mayo Tequila Tasting
6-7:30 p.m. — The Bell — Must be 21+ — Enjoy premium tequila paired with chocolate and authentic tacos in a festive celebration.
Derby Day 5 Miler & 5K
7:30-9:30 a.m. — D1 Training Shreveport — $25-$40 — Participate in a fun-running event featuring both 5-mile and 5k races.
Tequila Fest 2025
9 AM - 7 PM — Festival Plaza — Ticket prices vary — Celebrate with a lineup featuring UP PLIES, WEBBIE and more at this vibrant festival.
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