Disaster Aid Fight: Gov. Dan McKee says Rhode Island will appeal FEMA’s denial of blizzard recovery funding after the Feb. storm shattered snowfall records and left major damage—calling it politics over people. Extreme Weather & Flood Risk: A flood watch is in effect for Rhode Island and parts of New England as heavy rain and thunderstorms raise the odds of flash flooding and nuisance street flooding. Public Health at the Coast: RIDOH and Brown Health Dermatology are offering free skin cancer screenings at Easton’s Beach (July 10), Roger Wheeler State Beach (July 18), Scarborough State Beach North (July 25 & Aug. 14), and Lincoln Woods State Park beach (Aug. 22). Local Waste Solutions: Charlestown launched single-stream recycling and food scrap composting at its collection center, sending compost to Earth Care Farm. Sustainability Recognition: DEM will honor Newport Craft Brewing and WinterHawk Vineyards with BetterBev awards for water/energy cuts, regenerative practices, and composting. Wildlife Watch: Biologists confirmed the invasive Manila clam has established colonies along the northwestern Atlantic coastline. Energy Affordability: With winter shutoff protections ended, Rhode Island Energy nonpayment shutoffs and warning letters are rising, adding pressure on households. Community & Climate Leadership: State Rep. Terri-Denise Cortvriend announced her bid for a fifth term, citing work on PFAS, shoreline access, and climate resilience.