Pension Shock for Retirees: CNMI’s NMI Settlement Fund says the 25% pension benefit will end after July 31, 2026, with Finance Secretary Tracy Norita citing an Aug. 15 shortfall. Local Courts & Money: Charges were dismissed against the second defendant in the Saipan Mayor’s Office funds case after a civil settlement—$7,500 paid in monthly installments—closed the matter with prejudice. Disaster Relief, Food First: Nearly two months after Super Typhoon Sinlaku, USDA disaster nutrition assistance was approved for CNMI households, including enhanced benefits for current recipients and a separate program for affected households, with timing still dependent on local rollout. Power Relief on Tinian: FEMA and the U.S. military will cover generation and fuel costs temporarily, so Tinian bills show only the basic $7 service fee until around July 10. Recovery Progress: Officials report major restoration gains—about 99% of Saipan primary power lines re-energized and generation capacity above pre-storm levels—while distribution repairs and reconnections continue. Tourism Funding Fight: The tobacco settlement fund measure heads to conference committee talks as lawmakers work to keep appropriations flowing to tourism-linked programs and small businesses. Small Business Recovery: SBA says Sinlaku recovery loans have reached $9M, with demand strongest among homeowners and expanded help centers now operating longer hours. Sports & Community Economy: CNMI’s pickleball federation selected six athletes for the 2026 World Cup in Vietnam, but funding could shrink the team from six to four. Energy Costs & Infrastructure: A Guam/CNMI push continues for visa-free travel for Filipinos to support regional air demand and tourism recovery.