Port Operations: The Port Authority of Guam says container backlog is tied to issues with container-moving equipment, with Gantry Crane 6 back in service and crews restoring top lifters and repairing cargo-handling gear; the gatehouse will open Saturday to help truckers retrieve containers. Energy & Cost Pressures: GPA reports fuel shipment costs swinging again after July’s jump, while load shedding risk stays high through late August as Piti 9 trips offline and Ukudu repairs drag on. Local Business & Trade: GEDA and PHARE hosted a Japan Inbound Trade Mission with seven Japanese firms meeting Guam makers and food businesses, while GEDA also highlighted local products at the Pacific Hotel & Restaurant Expo. Food & Retail: Pepper Lunch opened a second Guam location in Hagåtña at Agana Shopping Center, drawing early crowds and aiming to serve central and southern Guam faster. Seabed Mining Politics: Guam leaders and Sen. William Parkinson are pushing back on a CNMI-led seabed mining lease sale process that excludes Guam from formal comments, calling for slower, science-led review. Public Health Watch: CDC wastewater data shows COVID-19 activity rising in U.S. states and Guam, signaling a summer uptick. Infrastructure & Safety: Gov. David Apatang issued emergency rules requiring brown tree snake inspections for vessels departing Guam to protect CNMI ecosystems. Hospitality Competition: PHARE 2026 chefs competed using local distributor products, including Impossible plant-based beef and Marufuku eggs.