New Orleans School Closures Loom: The Orleans Parish School Board is weighing a policy that could force the superintendent to propose downsizing and possible closures if districtwide enrollment benchmarks aren’t met by October, with a Dec. 15 deadline for a plan. Whooping Crane Milestone: LDWF reports a record 10 whooping crane chicks fledged this nesting season, bringing the state population to 84. Tax Refund Deadline: Louisiana taxpayers have until Sept. 4 to claim unclaimed state income tax refunds—about $17.55 million—before they move to the state treasurer’s Unclaimed Property Division. Campaign Finance Rule Push: Lawmakers are seeking a ban on using campaign funds to fight or settle sexual misconduct allegations. Housing Code Enforcement: Shreveport council members are pressing for tougher landlord enforcement over poor living conditions, including issues tied to Section 8. Election Filing Starts: Qualifying for the Nov. 3 election begins Aug. 5 and runs through Aug. 7. Port NOLA Leadership: Port NOLA appoints Brad Guilmino as VP of Finance and Innovative Delivery to lead major capital work, including the Louisiana International Terminal. Data Center Concerns: Iberville officials discuss how large data centers could affect noise and local water, pushing for proactive local rules. Orphan Trains Program: The Old Governor’s Mansion will host a free Orphan Train Museum presentation Aug. 4. Public Safety Tech Critique: A new report argues acoustic gunshot detectors don’t improve public safety and can drain police resources.