Shark Research in RI: The Atlantic Shark Institute and Mystic Aquarium recorded what may be the first great white shark footage in Rhode Island waters, documenting an ~8-foot, “healthy, well fed” shark feeding on a humpback whale carcass off Block Island after a 50-square-mile search. Higher Ed Finance: Moody’s cut Brown University’s credit outlook to negative, citing thin operating performance, high debt, and future lump-sum payments that could limit borrowing unless margins improve. Housing & Homelessness Policy: Rhode Island AG Peter Neronha joined a multistate lawsuit challenging HUD’s move to cap funding for permanent housing and alter the Continuum of Care program, warning it could cost thousands of homes. Defense Tech Training: Navy Reservists gathered at Naval Station Newport for the 2026 National Supply Readiness Symposium, with sessions on AI and emerging tech for logistics. Solar Policy Watch: New Hampshire signed a law setting safety and output limits for plug-in “balcony solar,” a reminder that small-scale solar still hinges on permitting and standards. Local Business Tech: Finance of America expanded its HomeSafe Second second-lien reverse mortgage into Rhode Island, aiming to help older homeowners access equity without new monthly payments. Retail Automation Rules: Rhode Island’s self-checkout crackdown is part of a broader national push that includes item limits, lane caps, and extra staff monitoring to curb theft.