Public Transit Leadership: New Orleans RTA CEO search is underway as riders report unreliable service; board chair Ann Duplessis says the next leader must respect the rider experience and could be chosen by end of August. State Politics & Agriculture: U.S. Rep. Julia Letlow won Louisiana’s GOP Senate runoff, setting up a Nov. matchup with Democrat Jamie Davis, while Letlow leans on Trump support and pushes agriculture-focused priorities. Health & Research: LSU Pennington Biomedical researchers are studying how GLP-1 weight-loss drugs affect muscle mass and metabolism—aiming to reduce “metabolic adaptation” downsides as Louisiana’s obesity rate stays high. Film & Tech in Louisiana: Virtual production—popularized by “The Mandalorian” using LED stages—keeps spreading into Louisiana as local companies and universities invest in the hardware and workflows. Local Infrastructure: Iberville Parish plans to preserve Bayou Grosse Tete’s drainage role even as conditions change, with community-focused plans aimed at protecting a key waterway. Energy & Industry: Dallas Fed reports oil and gas activity in northern Louisiana and the Texas region hit a four-year high, even as costs and regulation squeeze margins. Construction Disruption: French Quarter businesses along Decatur Street seek a preliminary injunction against S&WB over Decatur Street construction closures and fencing practices, arguing access and notice have been mishandled. University Growth: Southeastern Louisiana University adds new AI and cybersecurity concentrations and continues expanding media and sports communications opportunities.