Going to work: First-time claims for unemployment insurance benefits in Louisiana for the week ending July 21 fell from the previous week’s total. State labor department figures released today show initial claims fell to 3,080 from the previous week’s total of 3,675. During the same week last year there were 4,123 initial claims. The four-week moving average—a less volatile measure—decreased to 3,543 from the previous week’s total of 3,681.
Lots of big things in store: Big Lots will celebrate the opening of its new store at 9606 Cortana Place in Baton Rouge on Friday, Aug. 10, with a ribbon cutting and grand opening ceremony. As part of the celebration, Big Lots will make a $2,500 donation to Villa Del Ray Elementary School. Events begin at 9 a.m. The new store will replace the one at 12444 Florida Blvd.
Getting drilled: The number of rigs actively exploring for oil and natural gas in Louisiana increased by one to 119 this week, according to a report from Houston-based oilfield services company Baker Hughes Inc. This week last year, Louisiana had 59 more rigs, or 178. The U.S. weekly total fell by 11 this week to 1,924 from the previous week—but was up 16 rigs from the same week a year ago. You can access the complete report here.
