Baton Rouge Tourism Deal: Metro Council approved a new agreement to move ahead with the planned Sports Illustrated Resort, converting the Hilton Capitol Center into a mixed hotel/condo/vacation setup, with construction deadlines tied to higher possible city reimbursement. Air Travel for Travelers: Avelo announced nonstop flights from New Orleans (MSY) to McKinney (DTX) starting Dec. 17, twice weekly, with intro one-way fares from $99. New Orleans Fall Visitor Push: Tourism leaders say fall is ramping up fast, with NOLAxNOLA and other major festivals and sports expected to bring crowds back to local venues. Local Lodging Tax Vote: Slidell City Council sent a 2% hotel-occupancy tax to voters in a special election set for April 17, with proceeds aimed at tourism and recreational facilities. Bayou Flood Progress: The Comite River Diversion Channel’s control structure is advancing, with thousands of cubic yards of concrete placed as the project targets completion in spring 2028. Fuel Watch: GasBuddy reports show some of the lowest regular prices around the state hovering in the mid-$3 range in select parishes, a small but welcome relief for road-trip planning. Oyster Safety: Louisiana wildlife agents cited oyster-handling violations tied to improper refrigeration, warning about Vibrio risks.