Shark Watch: Drone footage near Scarborough’s Pine Point Beach captured up to seven great white sharks feeding close to shore, prompting safety reminders for swimmers and families. Maine Health: MaineHealth voted to close the Damariscotta birthing unit, ending labor and delivery on Dec. 18 and shifting births to Mid Coast Hospital while keeping prenatal and postpartum care locally. Federal Funding Fight: The U.S. Senate passed a stopgap funding bill through Dec. 11 that also temporarily blocks a White House rule that would let political appointees steer federal grant approvals. Early Childhood Policy: Providers criticized an HHS proposal that would loosen Head Start standards, including changes that could reduce staffing and full-day care requirements. PFAS Spotlight: A report on Indiana farmland details how “forever chemicals” like PFAS can reach soils and crops via wastewater biosolids. 3D Printing Advance: DOE researchers at Oak Ridge developed a real-time control system using sensors and thermal cameras to reduce defects when printing large composite plastic parts. ICE Body Cameras: ICE says it will equip officers with body cameras by end of September, but a policy lets the agency decide when footage is released—raising accountability concerns. Space Science Calendar: Coverage explains what to expect for the Aug. 12 solar eclipse and where totality is visible. Maine Tech/Industry: A UMaine/industry thread highlights new research and training partnerships, including work turning forest materials into energy and other applied science efforts.