Good morning, Shreveport.

Early Monday morning, the Shreveport Fire Department responded to a house fire in the 3500 block of Palm Road and rescued two dogs—who received lifesaving treatment—while both occupants escaped safely.

Mayor Tom Arceneaux will lead a second line parade to start the 49th Annual Red River Revel Arts Festival at 10:55 a.m. on Thursday, September 25 at Gate #2 on Commerce and Crockett—local nonprofit Beat the Streets is partnering to bring the community together for the festival’s official opening.

Fairfield Avenue School of Fencing in Shreveport offers private lessons and a junior program while housing the Museum of American Fencing—featuring one of the largest private collections of artifacts and memorabilia and led by director Andy Shaw who brings over 30 years of experience. The school is also featured in the documentary Southern Fried Fencing which highlights its unique culture and approach to sports and life.

Louisiana's official state gemstone is a cabochon cut gemstone made from oyster shell of Crassostrea virginica and was designated by state lawmakers in 2011—replacing agate.

The gem supports coastal heritage and promotes the state's oyster industry.

Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics show that Louisiana’s seasonally adjusted nonfarm employment in August reached 2,002,500 jobs, a decrease of 300 from July but an increase of 19,100 over last August.

The private sector added 500 jobs from July and the unemployment rate dropped to 4.4%—a sign that the job market remains strong.

After the Federal Reserve cut its key rate by 25 basis points to 4.25%, Louisiana mortgage rates dropped to a 30-year fixed rate of 6.15% while 15-year fixed and 5-year adjustable loans stayed steady—experts predict rates will remain above 6% through 2026.

Loyola College Prep introduced its first live mascot—Flyer the Beagle, which debuted at the Homecoming pep rally and is training to be a certified therapy pet with student handlers caring for him.

The school said University Veterinary Hospital will monitor Flyer’s health.

Three public safety agencies will hold a joint training exercise at Calumet on the 3300 block of Midway Avenue at 9 a.m. Thursday—Jewella Avenue will be closed between Midway and Hollywood from 8 a.m. until noon to allow the drill.

City officials in Shreveport are holding a public hearing at 3 p.m. today to vote on a plan for a new downtown entertainment district — the project is set to be funded by a dedicated 2% sales tax and a $50 million investment from rapper 50 Cent.

Leaders say the proposal could boost local development while ensuring existing downtown businesses are protected.

SporTran will launch a pilot program for driverless vehicles in Shreveport's medical corridor and downtown entertainment district in 2026.

The transit test uses new, smaller vehicles for on-demand trips—riders can travel short distances quickly as the service is evaluated.

Olympic gold medalist figure skater Oksana Baiul announced on Sept.

20 that her Shreveport home is for sale as she moves back to Las Vegas — she lived in Shreveport for three years and promised to visit in the future. Local friends expressed sadness over her departure, marking the end of a notable chapter in the community.

Chicken & Blues Festival

10 AM – 10 PM — Louisiana State University in Shreveport — Cost TBD — Celebrate the rich cultural heritage of blues music and culinary delights with local flavors and community spirit.

Lyle Lovett Concert

7:30-9 p.m. — The Strand Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Experience the genre-blending sounds of Lyle Lovett from country to jazz in an intimate theatre setting.

The Rock Orchestra By Candlelight

8-9:30 p.m. — Shreveport Municipal Auditorium — Tickets on sale now — A classical spin on legendary Rock & Metal in a uniquely dark atmosphere.

Autumn Breeze Road Race

7:30-9:30 a.m. — Uptown Center — Entry fee varies from $27 to $40 — Get ready to run in this scenic road race through fall's colorful landscapes.

Hospitality Sales and Marketing Update Meeting

9:15-11:45 a.m. — Sam's Town Hotel & Casino — Free parking, breakfast, and lunch provided — A vital gathering for hospitality professionals to discuss regional tourism initiatives.

Shreveport Bowfishing Tournament

All night fishing — Red River South Marina & Resort — $300 per team — Compete to eliminate invasive species and win cash prizes in this exciting carp tournament.

Louisiana Legends: Battle at the Boardwalk

2 p.m. — Under Armour Factory House - The Outlets of Louisiana Boardwalk — Free entry — Experience the excitement of live amateur boxing at this community event.

An Evening with Josh Gates

7:30-9:00 p.m. — Shreveport Municipal Auditorium — Tickets required — Explore thrilling stories and unseen footage from world-renowned explorer and TV personality Josh Gates.

Glenn Miller Orchestra Concert

7:00-8:30 p.m. — The Strand Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Experience the timeless hits of the iconic Glenn Miller Orchestra live in concert.