CNMI Public Health: CHCC says methamphetamine-related cases in the CNMI jumped from 71 (2022) to 252 (2025), with 179 cases already identified through Aug. 31, 2026, alongside rising emergency visits and substance-related deaths—an urgent call for community awareness and care. Military Buildup Costs: CNMI and Guam officials met federal interagency leaders in San Francisco to push for help addressing civilian impacts of the U.S. military buildup, aiming to set up an Economic Adjustment Committee process for long-term support. Seabed Mining Pushback: CNMI mayors (Saipan, Tinian/Aguiguan, Rota, Northern Islands) formally opposed proposed seabed mining, citing missing environmental studies, unclear economic benefits, and weak consultation; NRDC also says the Marianas lacks time and information to weigh the Dec. 16 lease sale. Local Business & Recovery: Cafe Citrus reopened Sept. 14 after Super Typhoon Sinlaku, with delays tied to importing replacement AC parts and supplies from Korea. Small Business Funding: Bank of Hawai’i and the CNMI SBDC Network celebrated 2026 Small Business Revitalization & Development Grant awardees, each receiving $5,000. Education Funding Pressure: PSS warned FY 2027 local funding near $25M could force major cuts, including possible 2- or 3-day school weeks. Utilities: CUC scheduled a Tinian islandwide power interruption Sept. 25 (8:30–9:30 a.m.) for feeder repairs. Sports & Community: The Saipan Chamber’s Oct. 7 general meeting will feature Acting Commissioner Jacqueline Che with updates on PSS and business collaboration.