US Politics & Public Health: New documents reported by AP and The Guardian say US Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. wrote to Samoa’s prime minister in 2019 to study MMR vaccines—contradicting his “nothing to do with vaccines” testimony during Senate confirmation—sparking calls for a criminal investigation and renewed scrutiny of his Samoa-linked role in the measles deaths. Samoan Education & Opportunities: Five Samoans received JICA SDG Global Leader scholarships to study in Japan, including environmental science and multiple masters in public policy, social development, business, and policy science. Culture & Community Spotlight: Samoa’s Measina Cultural & Arts Festival 2026 unveiled its logo and kicks off Sunday 30, replacing the Teuila Festival for the low season, with stalls, entertainment, sports, and fautasi racing; Taxi is announced as a Gold Sponsor. Lifestyle & Women in Sport: A Pasifika teen won the GirlBoss Innovation Award for Mana Malosi, creating shorts to help women feel confident and comfortable playing sports during menstruation. Samoa in the Region: Samoa chef Henry Onesemo was named New Zealand’s 2026 Chef of the Year, with judges praising how his Samoan traditions shape fine dining. Labour Rights: Pacific workers in Vanuatu raised concerns about sexual harassment, restrictive accommodation rules, and what happens after serious complaints under labour mobility schemes. Arts Beyond Samoa: Karangahape Road in Auckland launches a free three-day art weekend, turning the neighbourhood into one big gallery.