Seabed Mining Push Sparks CNMI Alarm: The Marine Minerals Administration advanced a proposed Mariana Trench lease sale, but CNMI leaders say the process is moving too fast and lacks safeguards—while Guam officials are also raising concerns after being shut out of formal comment rights. Governor’s Review Demands Protections: Gov. David Apatang says his administration will proceed with “extreme caution,” calling for peer-reviewed baseline studies, fishing protections, local workforce and business opportunities, and transparency before any final decision. Legal Fight Over Deep-Sea Leases: Environmental groups and community advocates sued to stop deep-sea mining lease sales, challenging federal determinations under the Endangered Species Act. Storm Readiness as Saudel Intensifies: CNMI emergency officials urged residents to secure property, clear drains, stock essentials, and monitor updates as Tropical Storm/typhoon conditions were declared for Saipan, Tinian, and the far northern islands; the Coast Guard also issued port heavy-weather orders. Radiation Exposure Study Proposed: Delegate Kimberlyn King-Hinds backed federal legislation to study whether U.S. nuclear-test fallout (1946–1962) reached the Northern Marianas and affected residents. Public Education Funding Pressure: The acting Parent Advisory Council urged lawmakers to prioritize PSS funding, as Education Commissioner Jacqueline Che called for Legislature–PSS partnership amid budget strain. Local Economy & Governance Debate: After the Marianas Press gubernatorial debate, community reactions focused on trust, executive readiness, and stabilizing utilities and the economy. Community & Youth Updates: NMC’s paid summer internship program placed 377 students in food and agriculture tracks, and alcohol retailers were invited to compliance training on Saipan, Tinian, and Rota.