Pacific Seabed Mining Push: The U.S. Marine Minerals Administration released a proposed leasing notice for the Mariana Trench area, setting up a 60-day CNMI governor review and a potential Dec. 16 auction covering about 67 million acres, while Gov. David Apatang says CNMI will move with “extreme caution” and demands peer-reviewed baseline studies, fishing protections, local workforce and business contracting, and transparency. Local Budget Pressure: CNMI is weighing furloughs for up to 400 employees in FY2027 as the budget crunch deepens, alongside projected shortfalls tied to retirees’ 25% pension payments. Power Restoration Funding: CUC says a $40 million line of credit remains stuck in the Legislature, forcing cuts to overtime and contracts while about 3,000 customers still lack power; CUC is considering a recovery surcharge to keep restoration moving. Disaster Loans Deadline: SBA’s physical disaster loan deadline for Super Typhoon Sinlaku is Aug. 21, with 774 approvals so far (about $66M+). Education Funding Plea: The Parent Advisory Council urged lawmakers to prioritize adequate PSS funding, warning budget cuts could mean fewer instructional days and possible furloughs. Gubernatorial Debate Fallout: After the Marianas Press debate, candidates and community leaders focused on the CNMI’s trust problem, economic stabilization, and government readiness. Tinian Internet Casino Case: CNMI Supreme Court heard arguments on whether Tinian’s internet-only casino law and digital “stable token” fit constitutional limits. Small Business & Community: NMC offices close Aug. 27-28 for professional development; Atkins Kroll’s Back-to-School Test Drive campaign runs through Aug. 31; and PawPawPet opened a Saipan dog cafe.