Fisheries & Community Loss: American Samoa and the wider Pacific mourn Manny Dueñas, a fearless advocate for island fishermen who fought for Guam, American Samoa, CNMI and Hawai‘i. Tsunami Safety: After a 7.8 quake off Mindanao, U.S. Tsunami Warning Centre advisories were issued across much of the Pacific, including American Samoa, with officials urging people to stay out of the water and watch for hazardous currents. Ocean Policy & Democracy: A bipartisan congressional briefing in Washington focused on “consent of the governed” for U.S. territories, highlighting that 3.6 million territorial residents still lack full democratic rights. Deep-Sea Mining Pushback: Guam signed a seabed mining ban, while American Samoa lawmakers and advocates continue pressing for moratoriums and stronger protections as NOAA and private companies advance seabed mineral steps. Local Infrastructure: Aunu’u Wharf Reconstruction Project updates confirm a new wharf and boat ramp design, with an Environmental Assessment underway and construction targeted for late 2027. Food Assistance Modernization: DHSS launched the ASNAP EBT system, moving benefits to an electronic format for eligible recipients. Elections & Voting: The Election Office urged new 18-year-old graduates to register for the upcoming midterm vote. Sports Development: ASNFF hosted a dinner to grow international flag football pathways, and American Samoa was awarded the WBSC Oceania 15U Women’s World Cup Qualifier in July.