Deep-Sea Mining Deadline: American Samoa’s governor review of BOEM’s PACM-1 deep-sea mining lease sale is due to end Sept. 15, with BOEM expected to issue a final notice in October and a proposed Nov. 19 lease sale tied to critical minerals; residents and groups are also pushing back through formal comments and lawsuits. Legal Pushback: Conservation groups filed a second Earthjustice lawsuit challenging the federal deep-sea mining push, arguing it could harm endangered species and fragile ocean ecosystems that support local livelihoods and culture. Local Governance & Infrastructure: Port Administration of American Samoa met with the Aunu’u community on wharf expansion and boat ramp repairs, focusing on safety after June tidal surges and the need to repair the eastern wave absorber; permitting is underway with construction bidding targeted for Oct. 2027. Fisheries & Shipping: The Western Pacific Fishery Management Council meets Sept. 15–17, with a key decision on the Large Vessel Prohibited Area around Muliāva (Rose Atoll) that could reshape longline access for American Samoa. Food Safety: DOH inspectors shut down two retail food stores—Gold Conda Store (Vaitogi) and JKL Food Center (Futiga)—after sanitation and public health violations. Maritime Security: Coast Guard Cutter Joseph Gerczak returned to Honolulu after a 52-day Blue Pacific patrol, including boardings and support for efforts to curb illegal fishing. Culture & Learning: ASVB launched “Our Paogo,” a children’s book aimed at preserving American Samoa’s Paogo symbol through culture, conservation, and hands-on growing activities.