Public Health: The Cayman Islands Public Health Department says pertussis (whooping cough) is still circulating, urging residents to watch for persistent or worsening cough, check vaccination status for themselves and children, and seek medical advice early. Conservation & Policy: The National Conservation Council warns that proposed amendments to the National Conservation Act could weaken protections, including a controversial plan to redefine “alien species” based on a 100-year rule. Marine Science & Wildlife: The Department of Environment reports sea turtle hatchling deaths and misorientations linked to inappropriate artificial lighting, with multiple nests affected across Grand Cayman and Cayman Brac. Research & STEM Leadership: Central Caribbean Marine Institute appoints Dr George Roff as Director of Science to lead a new coral reef research direction across the region. Digital & Finance (Cayman-linked): Valour (DeFi Technologies’ Cayman subsidiary) launches Valour Funds SPC and its first hedge fund, Smart Crypto Fund SP, using Neuronomics’ AI strategy. Local Tech/Travel: Cayman Airways launches a new vacation booking website for flight-and-hotel packages, aiming to make trip planning easier for visitors and residents. Education & Career Pathways: Connect and Ascentium highlight work-experience pathways for Caymanian talent, while Mentoring Cayman seeks mentors for its 2026/27 programme. Heritage: Little Cayman’s UNESCO World Heritage Preliminary Assessment is submitted, marking a key step toward international recognition.