Seabed Mining Push: BOEM and the Marine Minerals Administration moved ahead with proposed deep-sea mineral leasing around the Mariana Trench, including a Northern Mariana Islands Outer Continental Shelf lease notice and environmental assessment—despite tens of thousands of public comments—setting up a governor review window and a potential December auction. Local Governance: Gov. Apatang’s office says the CNMI review will focus on strict safeguards and transparency before any final decision, while critics argue the process leaves islands to carry the risks. Utility Relief Fight: Commonwealth Utilities Corp. says a stalled $40M line of credit is slowing restoration after Super Typhoons Sinlaku and Bavi, with about 3,000 customers still without power; CUC’s counsel says it may seek a recovery surcharge from ratepayers. Power Scheduling: CUC posted planned Tinian outages for pole replacements and equipment work. Disaster Financing: SBA opened rural disaster assistance for Saipan and Tinian after Typhoon Bavi, with deadlines for physical and economic injury loans. Education & Youth: APES honored CNMI youth filmmakers promoting substance-free messages, and a Project HOPE outreach campaign targeted illegal sales to minors. Tourism Business Impact: Marianas Beach Resort remains closed due to typhoon damage while maintaining lease commitments; Kensington Hotel is considering a temporary closure for recovery work. Gaming Legal Watch: CNMI Supreme Court heard arguments over Tinian’s internet casino and stable token law, with constitutional limits in question.