Aviation Safety Update: Samoa Airways Flight 990, a Twin Otter that had just returned to service after a roughly $12 million refurbishment, veered off Runway 12 at Fitiuta Airport on 29 July; one staff member suffered a leg injury and authorities say the cause is still under investigation. Local Governance: The Fono is set to review American Samoa’s proposed FY2027 budget (about $789.3 million), with lawmakers now wrestling over how local revenue figures should be treated versus debt service and other pledged obligations. Judicial Confirmation: Roy J.D. Hall Jr. was unanimously confirmed as American Samoa’s Administrative Law Judge, taking on administrative hearings and due-process oversight. Deep-Sea Mining Fight: The Trump administration is moving toward opening American Samoa’s surrounding waters to deep-sea mining, with a proposed lease sale drawing sharp criticism over potential harm to the marine environment and local communities. Public Safety & Fraud: A bipartisan group of U.S. attorneys general is urging the FCC to strengthen “Know Your Customer” rules to curb illegal robocalls. Education & Community: American Samoa’s NOAA Hollings and EPP/MSI scholars presented research in Washington, D.C., with one student earning an outstanding oral presentation award. Travel Advisory: DOH issued guidance limiting travelers’ imported food units from Samoa to personal use only (max 10 units) and requiring labeled medication declarations. Sports: Oceania Volleyball is set to come to Guam next week, with American Samoa among the participating teams. Arts & Culture: The CFDA’s “United Flags of Fashion” project includes American Samoa’s flag among redesigns displayed through 4 September. Radio Recognition: Joey Cummings of South Seas Broadcasting Inc. (Pago Pago) is a finalist for a 2026 NAB Marconi Radio Award.