Youth & Substance-Free Creativity: Asia Pacific Education Services honored CNMI youth and adult filmmakers at Saipan World Resort for the “Be the Influence, Not the Influenced” APES Video Competition, with winners across middle school, high school, and college/adult divisions tackling the dangers of underage alcohol and marijuana use. Cultural Pride Abroad: Saipan’s young Awaodori dancers impressed audiences in Japan’s Tokushima Awaodori festival, with a prestigious group selecting three team members for street performances. Education on the Move: Kagman High School teacher Elizabeth Basa and student Cyrena Ada represented the CNMI at the Young People’s Continental Congress in Philadelphia, bringing the islands’ voice to civic learning. Back-to-School Care: Local barbers and community leaders teamed up for free K-12 haircuts, serving 75 students after closing a salon for the day. Liberation Day Returns: After Typhoon Bavi canceled this year’s plans, Liberation Day festivities are set for Aug. 21–22, with dozens of parade entries and vendors expected. Public School Funding Question: A review of CNMI education finance says the 25% “general revenues” floor remains unresolved, with lawmakers set to take up the PSS budget Aug. 19. Saipan’s Coast Under Pressure: Rotary Club of Saipan is organizing a community-led push to address coastal erosion and climate impacts, aiming to convene partners and explore protection strategies. Election Process Update: The Commonwealth Election Commission certified 73 candidates for the 2026 general election after ballot-placement raffles.