Deep-Sea Mining Push: Environmental and community leaders from the Marianas, American Samoa, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands urged Gov. David M. Apatang to formally oppose the federal deep-seabed mining lease sale near the Northern Marianas, calling for a pause or cancellation and more public outreach before the Oct. 19 deadline. Local Protest at Sea: American Samoan community leaders and Greenpeace USA peacefully confronted NOAA’s research ship Okeanos Explorer in Pago Pago Harbor, warning that mapping seabed minerals could feed the broader deep-sea mining agenda. Territorial Benefits Bill: CNMI Delegate Kimberlyn King-Hinds introduced H.R. 10318, the Pacific Minerals Economic Security Act, aiming to strengthen revenue sharing, environmental protections, and local consultation for U.S. Pacific territories near seabed mining. Education & Sports: The Department of Education kicked off the 2026 academic sports year, with Acting Governor Pulumataala Ae Ae Jr. urging student athletes to excel in both school and sport. Elections Update: Local absentee voting for the Nov. 3 general election began on Labor Day at the Election Office, with voting continuing through Nov. 2. Higher Education Leadership: The Board of Higher Education named Ti’alemasunu Tupuola Dr. Mikaele Etuale as the next ASCC president, effective Sept. 8. Youth STEAM Program: The Foeoletini Foundation wrapped up its inaugural PITA Jr. Summer Bootcamp, bringing STEAM and robotics exposure to village students as a prevention strategy. Community Safety: Police charged a woman in an alleged assault at the Puapua LDS chapel, and another alleged assault in Leone led to charges including assault in the third degree. Youth Online Safety Settlement: A major multistate Meta settlement includes American Samoa, requiring new protections for children using Instagram and Facebook.