Marianas Deep-Sea Mining Fight: CNMI and regional groups are pushing back hard on the federal plan to lease more than 67 million acres for seabed mining, with lawsuits challenging the claim that the sale won’t harm endangered species and calls for Gov. David Apatang to formally halt the process and demand stronger protections and revenue sharing. Delegate Spotlight: In Washington, Delegate Kimberlyn King-Hinds is backing the Pacific Minerals Economic Security Act (PACMESA), seeking a 50% cut of lease revenues for affected Pacific territories plus tougher bonding and local consultation. Local Jobs After Sinlaku: FEMA hired 22 CNMI residents through a local hire initiative, including an emergency management specialist focused on disability access and recovery—an example of how disaster response can build federal pathways. Education & Tech: CNMI educator Raquel Bagnol’s featured local author, Dr. Riya Nathrani, released practical, human-centered guides for AI and cybersecurity in education aimed at teachers and school leaders. Community & Culture: The Marianas’ “Far From Ordinary” tourism campaign won Global Tourism Campaign of the Year, highlighting Environment, Culture, Adventure, History, Sustainability, and Diversity. Public Safety: Federal authorities reported arrests tied to an online undercover “Defender of Children” operation targeting attempted enticement of minors. Sports: CNMI athletes brought home two silver and one bronze at the Pickleball World Cup/International Tournament in Vietnam. Civic Life: The NMI Bar Association hosted a forum for attorney general candidates, focusing on prosecutorial independence, deep-sea mining, contracts, and restoring public trust.