Transportation & Infrastructure: Louisiana Transportation Authority approved a Sept. 24 contract letting New Orleans-based LabMar Ferry Services take over Cameron Ferry operations and maintenance, with a 60-day transition and DOTD aiming to improve reliability as two new ferries are built for the $49.7 million replacement project. Banking & Corporate Identity: Merchants & Marine Bancorp said its bank subsidiary will legally rename to TownBridge Bank on Sept. 28, using a shared charter identity while keeping local brand names and leadership. Manufacturing Dealmaking: Baton Rouge-founded Marucci Sports is returning to founder-led private ownership after Fox Factory sold it for $225 million, with Marucci staying in Baton Rouge. Workforce & Skills Training: Bossier Parish Community College will offer free Basic Construction Crafts Bootcamps in Natchitoches and Sabine Valley this fall, with no prior experience needed and NCCER credentials for participants. Veterans & Housing: Louisiana ranked No. 1 for veteran poverty, with advocates pointing to housing affordability pressures and homelessness risk for veterans on fixed incomes. Community Business Boost: Acadiana’s Choice awards drew 371,000+ votes, a 50% jump, highlighting strong local support for businesses across hundreds of categories. Public Safety & Community: St. Landry Crime Stoppers won two national awards, including a radio PSA tied to a 21-year-old cold case. Economic Development: East Feliciana Parish police jury backed a $90 million nuclear life cycle innovation campus proposal, positioning Louisiana for a potential DOE site.