Good morning, Shreveport.

Art'Trelle, a 14-year-old foster youth in Shreveport, is legally freed to be adopted and seeks a family who embraces his love for Spiderman, robots, and even hunting (despite mixed feelings about killing animals) as he dreams of becoming a roboticist.

Shreveport's Love the Boot event is scheduled to take place soon, promising an engaging community celebration.

Organizers plan a festive lineup of activities (details pending) to showcase local talent and spirit.

A new Uptown Cheapskate opened in Shreveport on Thursday at 4800 Line Ave, Suite D, drawing early-bird shoppers with VIP access and free swag bags for the first 50 visitors.

Daily specials, including a Lululemon drop, will run through Sunday.

High school students from Bossier, Caddo, and North DeSoto High celebrated signing day as they committed to career paths like skilled trades and education.

The event showcased the success of career technical education programs and marked a milestone as students advanced into jobs, internships, and college programs across the region.

State Sen. Sam Jenkins D-Shreveport advanced Senate Bill 157 to offer six weeks of fully paid parental leave for public school employees — with the state covering substitute teacher costs — as the measure moves to the Senate finance committee amid concerns from school boards.

State lawmakers approved a bill on Wednesday, Apr.

15 that would fine public colleges up to $100,000 if they punish faculty for exercising free speech (the measure now heads to a full House vote) as it mandates uniform academic freedom policies and annual compliance reports.

LSUS men’s basketball All-American Hayden Brittingham earned the LABC Small College Player of the Year award after leading the Pilots to a 28-6 record and conference title.

The honor will be presented on May 4 at the awards dinner in Baton Rouge.

Shreveport Soul Flower Music Fest

2-9 p.m. — Festival Plaza — Kids 8 and under free — An unforgettable celebration of Soul, R&B, and Hip-Hop with music, food, games, and great vibes.

The Sundress Soirée

12-4 p.m. — Kanteen Park — Free entry — Experience a stylish day filled with sunshine, smiles, and great company.

Liverpool Legends - Beatles Tribute Show

7-10 p.m. — The Strand Theatre — Tickets available — Experience the magic of The Beatles with the Grammy-nominated Liverpool Legends in a special tribute performance.

Taco Wars 2026

11 AM – 8 PM — Prize Foundation — Cost info not provided — Celebrate taco culture as local eateries compete for the best taco in Shreveport.

Excellence in Hospitality Awards 2026

6-9 p.m. — Sam's Town Casino — Inquire for ticket pricing — Celebrate the best in local hospitality with cocktails, a buffet, and an inspiring awards program.

Star Wars Unlimited - Planetary Qualifier

11 a.m. — Gamers XP — $40 — Battle for your chance to qualify in this exciting Star Wars Unlimited tournament at Gamers XP's new location.

Shreveport Stuffed Shrimp Festival

11 a.m. – 8 p.m. — Festival Plaza — $5 admission, free for children under 10 — Celebrate local flavors and enjoy stuffed shrimp delicacies.

Styx with Special Guest Edwin McCain

8-9:30 p.m. — Shreveport Municipal Auditorium — Tickets available — Experience an unforgettable night of classic rock with hits from Styx.

The Church Picnic

7-11 p.m. — Kanteen Park — Free entry — Celebrate faith and community at a fun-filled picnic party with food, music, and joy.