NOAA Budget Cuts: The Trump administration’s proposed 2027 NOAA budget would slash more than $1 billion and end or reduce programs tied to Pacific weather forecasting, fisheries support, coral protection, and coastal resilience—raising alarms for Guam and CNMI, and by extension island communities like American Samoa. Deep-Sea Mining Pushback: Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata renewed her call for a deep seabed mining moratorium near American Samoa, saying federal reviews must be thorough, science-based, and not rushed—especially over unknown impacts like sediment “plumes” that could harm fish stocks. Local Food Support: DHSS launched the ASNAP Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) system, modernizing how eligible families receive nutrition assistance. Summer EBT (SUN Bucks): Summer EBT begins this week for public school students, with benefits increased to $180 per student for June–August. Elections Watch: Sandra King Young officially registered her campaign committee with the Federal Election Commission as she launches her bid for Delegate to Congress. Ocean STEAM Opportunity: A local student, Jhen Allison Paguiligan Seguiwan, was selected for a Seafloor Mapping & Hydrography internship aboard E/V Nautilus. Public Safety & Courts: A man was arrested in a domestic violence case tied to alleged abuse and Facebook-related investigation details; another man was charged after an alleged disorderly incident in Fagatogo. Independence Day Plans: ASTCA and partners unveiled major July 4 events, including women’s cricket, the Fautasi race, international 7s rugby, a Stan Walker concert, and a fireworks-and-drone show.