CNMI innovator Samantha Salamon launches The Matcha Edit in Saipan
Saipan — Samantha Salamon, a member of the first cohort of the CNMI Innovation Incubator Program, has launched The Matcha Edit, a premium matcha drink business in Saipan that blends her background as a local photographer with a new focus on high-quality matcha crafted for the community.
Hawley, Johnson take 2026 Rota Marathon
Rota — Two weeks after conquering the inaugural Saipan Sugarcane Railroad Journey 81km Run, Saipan’s Krista Hawley was the first female to finish the 2026 Rota Marathon with a time of 4:27:24, while Matthew Johnson claimed first place overall with a time of 3:37:35 .
House passes King-Hinds bill to expand SBA microloan access for CNMI small businesses
WASHINGTON, D.C. — A bill by CNMI Delegate Kimberlyn King-Hinds that would expand access to federal microloans for local small businesses cleared the U.S. House on Tuesday.
Saipan tied to alleged plot to export U.S.-controlled military communications gear to China
SAIPAN — A federal criminal complaint filed in U.S. District Court in Utah alleges a China-linked scheme to illegally export U.S.-controlled defense articles — including military-grade satellite modems — and identifies Saipan as a proposed in-person meeting site discussed in undercover communications, as well as the place where an arrest warrant would be executed.
CMA launches online provider directory to help CNMI Medicaid members find care
SAIPAN — The Commonwealth Medicaid Agency has launched an enhanced online CMA Provider Directory aimed at improving access to healthcare services and helping Medicaid beneficiaries connect with enrolled providers across the Commonwealth.
King-Hinds calls 2026 ‘Mount 2026’ as CNMI faces critical challenges
SAIPAN — U.S. Congresswoman Kimberlyn King-Hinds framed 2026 as a critical year for the commonwealth Fridayday as it faces mounting economic pressures and federal scrutiny.
PSS Receives Budget Increase, Will Continue Modified Austerity Measures in 2026
The CNMI Public School System will transition to a reduced austerity schedule beginning in January following a budget increase signed into law by Governor David M. Apatang, according to a memorandum released by Commissioner of Education Lawrence F. Camacho.
Deleon Guerrero Opposes Deep-Sea Mining off CNMI Coast, Cites Environmental and Cultural Concerns
Galvin Sablan Deleon Guerrero, Independent candidate for U.S. Congress, has formally submitted comments to the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) opposing commercial leasing for seabed mineral extraction in waters offshore the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands.
Benjamin Mendiola Jones Sr.October 10,1951-December 28,2025
The Saipan community is mourning the passing of Benjamin Mendiola Jones Sr., a devoted husband, father, and friend who passed away on December 28, 2025, at the age of 74. Born on October 10, 1951, Mr. Jones touched the lives of many throughout his years in the Northern Mariana Islands.
CNMI Corrections Overhauls Medical Staffing to Improve Care, Cut Costs
SAIPAN – The Northern Mariana Islands Department of Corrections is restructuring its medical unit by replacing a single high-salary position with multiple healthcare providers, a move Commissioner Anthony Torres says will improve inmate care while achieving cost savings.