Offshore mining backlash: Pacific leaders, environmental groups, and island advocates are condemning a U.S. move to advance offshore mineral leasing off American Samoa, saying it ignores nearly 70,000 public comments and threatens the moana, culture, and livelihoods; BOEM’s Proposed Leasing Notice sets up a possible Nov. 19 lease sale, with American Samoa’s governor given 60 days to weigh in. Regional solidarity: Marianas leaders have joined the opposition, calling the process undemocratic and warning that sacred seabeds and marine ecosystems are being treated like an extractive resource. Liberation Day giving back (Guam): A Pulitzer-winning photographer is holding a Liberation Day pop-up in Tumon, donating half of sales to Rota’s typhoon recovery and collecting supplies for families. Sports & community (Nauru): A feature looks at why football hasn’t really taken off in Nauru, linking the struggle to history, shrinking land, and everyday pressures. Education spending snapshot: A global roundup highlights which countries spend the biggest share of GDP on education, including several small island states and the Federated States of Micronesia. Nauru policing concerns: A quiet change to Nauru’s policing powers is raising questions about whether laws were adjusted to blunt legal challenges tied to deportations. Guam events: Guam’s 82nd Liberation Day will be marked with two Tumon Night Market celebrations featuring local and international performers and fireworks.