Energy & Industry: DOE picked Louisiana for rare-earth extraction from bauxite waste, backing a Louisiana facility expected to produce 150–1,000 metric tons annually, as part of a broader push to cut reliance on China. Maritime Tech: Fleetzero, Thoma-Sea Marine Constructors, and Glosten announced a collaboration to build autonomous diesel-electric vessels for commercial and defense customers, aiming for long-duration, low-detection operations. LNG & Shipbuilding: Samsung Heavy won a $2.7B FLNG order for a North American client tied to a Louisiana offshore project, with delivery targeted for 2030. Port & Logistics Innovation: Port NOLA and NOPB adopted AI cargo technology to improve rail clearance. Local Infrastructure & Safety: BREC opened the Freedom Heritage Trail in East Baton Rouge, linking Scotlandville, Southern University, and the Boomtown area with pedestrian/bike upgrades. Workforce & Education: Louisiana’s “reading recession” focus is driving renewed “science of reading” efforts, including phonics-based approaches in West Baton Rouge schools. Food & Compliance: New shrimp genetic testing found continued misrepresentation of imported shrimp in Baton Rouge restaurants, even where disclosure signage exists. Public Policy: Louisiana lawmakers adjourned the 2026 regular session, while debates continue on school closures like Comeaux High. Sports & Community: LHSAA moved state wrestling to New Orleans and basketball to Lafayette’s Cajundome.