Deep-Sea Minerals Push: NOAA says it will run two summer-fall expeditions from the Okeanos Explorer to map deep waters around American Samoa, with daily online streaming and public data meant to support future commerce and planning. Federal Leasing Momentum: The Trump administration is also advancing seabed mining lease steps near the Northern Mariana Islands, including a proposed auction process, while critics warn the process favors distant companies and leaves local communities to carry risks. Local Governance & Roads: In Pago Pago, Senator Togiola says new raised crosswalks and road signs installed by Public Works are illegal under the American Samoa Code, arguing they function like traffic-control devices. Education & Sports Funding: The Department of Education says its Athletics Office is gone, sports now sit under secondary oversight, and FY2027 has no funding for school sports—DOE is seeking help from businesses and NGOs. Business Impact: A major fire destroyed the Manu’a Store building in Tafuna; officials say damage and cause are still being assessed. Community & Workforce: EPIC’s AmeriCorps VISTA program was approved for three members to expand workforce and economic opportunity across American Samoa. Fisheries Strategy: Samoa is pushing stronger fish stock monitoring and EEZ security at WCPFC meetings, including anti-illegal fishing and maritime coordination with partners.