AGP Executive Report

Food Safety Alert: Hawai‘i DOH is recalling Sun Noodle Sura Tanmen Hot and Sour Flavor Premium Japanese Noodles & Soup Base because a soba sauce soup base containing fish was mistakenly packed in, and the label doesn’t list fish; the recall covers specific item numbers/UPCs and lot code 1226183 sold at local grocers, with no illnesses reported but fish-allergy customers urged to avoid it and seek help if exposed. Mental Health Response: Honolulu Police doubled its Crisis Intervention Team and expanded the MH-3 program across O‘ahu, increasing outreach and evaluation efforts for people in distress or experiencing substance-related crises. Maui Violence Case: A champion swimmer was charged with second-degree murder, first-degree burglary, and indecent exposure in the beating death of a 63-year-old security guard at a West Maui condominium; police say surveillance video shows the attack. Maui Wildfire Relief: Gov. Josh Green says the One ʻOhana Fund has offered the full $175 million available to eligible Maui wildfire families and seriously injured claimants, with more than $155.7 million already delivered. Public Health Watch: Nationally, CDC data shows the drug-resistant fungus Candida auris is spreading across more states, underscoring ongoing infection-control concerns in healthcare settings.

Conservation & Careers: Kupu opened applications for its Conservation Leadership Development Program and Kupu ʻĀina Corps, seeking recent grads and young professionals for hands-on conservation work across Hawaiʻi and the Pacific, with AmeriCorps support including health insurance and a living allowance. Public Safety in the Community: A Maui courtroom appearance followed allegations that Hawaii congressional candidate Kirill Basin threatened beachgoers before being knocked unconscious; he remains held on $1 million bail. Health & Wellness Spotlight: At Ko Olina, 80-year-old instructor Teri Joule keeps teaching multiple weekly fitness classes, framing movement as “medicine” for longevity. Local Health Infrastructure: Hawaiʻi County is accepting proposals for a new Event Sponsorship Program, with funding aimed at events that support health and wellness among other community goals. Road Safety: Honolulu police reported a hit-and-run on the H-1 that seriously injured a construction worker in Pearl City, and a separate Mountain View attempted-murder charge followed a shooting that left a man in critical condition. Sleep & Comfort: A new survey says many Americans prefer sleeping around 67°F, with Hawaii listed as the warmest “sleeping state” at about 69.5°F.

Maui Public Safety: Police arrested a naked 20-year-old man accused of beating a 63-year-old to death at Sands of Kahana in Lahaina; investigators say surveillance footage shows the attack early Aug. 5 and the suspect fled, then was found hours later. Maui Beach Violence: A Hawaii congressional candidate, Kirill Basin, faces felony terroristic threatening charges after a viral South Kihei beach confrontation that allegedly included knife threats and a bystander recovering the knife. Health Tech & Care Access: Hawaii doctors are warning patients not to use AI chatbots as a substitute for medical care, noting AI can sound confident while being wrong. Public Health Watch: The CDC reports a major cyclosporiasis outbreak with over 20,000 suspected cases nationwide, while Hawaii remains among the few states without confirmed cases. Maternal & Infant Support: Michigan declared August Breastfeeding Month, highlighting weekly observances and lactation resources for families. Sleep & Home Comfort: A new survey says Americans’ “ideal” bedroom temperature averages 67°F, with Hawaii among the warmer sleepers at 69.5°F. Policy & Oversight: The Senate advanced the CHATBOT Act, co-authored by Sen. Brian Schatz, aiming to make AI chatbots safer for children with parent-controlled family accounts. Local Health Infrastructure: Kona Community Hospital earned level III trauma center verification.

AI in Healthcare: Hawaii experts warn patients not to use AI chatbots as a substitute for a clinician, stressing that confident answers can still be wrong and lack personal context. Public Health: The CDC says cyclosporiasis cases are surging nationwide, with over 20,000 suspected cases reported in the largest outbreak in U.S. history; Hawaii is among the states still reporting no confirmed cases in the latest update. Local Health & Safety: A motorcyclist, 64-year-old Clifford Gouveia, died after a July 30 crash on Highway 11 in Kea‘au; police cite speed and inattention as possible factors. Access & Infrastructure: Hawaiʻi is moving forward with a nearly $150 million fiber broadband expansion for underserved communities, targeting thousands of unserved homes with fiber-optic service. Environment & Wildlife: DLNR is proposing rule changes to better protect indigenous wildlife, including limits on “take,” habitat harm, and feeding wildlife statewide. Community Wellness: A sleep study suggests Americans’ ideal bedroom temperature is about 67°F, while experts recommend setting thermostats around 78°F in summer for comfort and cost.

Wildlife Protections: Hawaii DLNR proposed new rules to better protect indigenous wildlife, including bans on “take” (harm/harass), limits on harmful habitat changes, and statewide restrictions on feeding wildlife—especially aimed at feral cats. Public Health: The CDC says cyclosporiasis has surged to 47 states with 10,468 lab-confirmed cases since May 1, tied to a Mexico iceberg lettuce recall; Hawaii is among the few states spared so far. Community Health & Safety: Hawaii is moving ahead with a $149.5M broadband expansion to connect about 5,800 unserved homes, with leaders noting improved access to healthcare and public safety resources. Local Services: A new Child and Family Service office in Hilo expands trauma-informed support, including domestic violence services and mental health counseling. Conservation & Youth: Kupu received a $1.75M AmeriCorps grant to train the next generation of conservation leaders across Hawaiʻi and the Pacific. Health Research: UH Mānoa researchers linked specific gut bacteria patterns to faster or slower biological aging, while stressing the study shows association, not cause. Road Safety: A Hilo-area motorcyclist died after a Highway 11 crash; police cited speed and inattention.

Military & Public Safety Costs: A Defense Department estimate says extending the National Guard deployment in Washington, D.C. through January 2029 will cost about $1.4B, drawing criticism that it militarizes the capital and diverts taxpayer money. Women’s Health & Accountability: An Army OB-GYN, Maj. Blaine McGraw, faces court-martial over alleged sexual abuse of patients, including claims tied to his time at Tripler Army Medical Center in Hawai‘i. Foodborne Illness Watch: Hawaii health officials confirmed a 4th travel-related cyclosporiasis case as the national outbreak grows, with CDC reporting thousands of illnesses and hospitalizations. Kidney Care Education: The National Kidney Foundation received Joint Accreditation with Commendation through 2032, highlighting ongoing training for clinicians treating kidney disease. Youth Conservation Jobs: Kupu won $1.75M in AmeriCorps funding to expand hands-on conservation career pathways across Hawai‘i and the Pacific. Local Health Context: A WalletHub analysis ranks California’s healthcare affordability and outcomes, underscoring cost pressures that can affect access.

Cancer Care Boost: UH Cancer Center opened the Hoʻōla Early Phase Clinical Research Center, Hawaiʻi’s first dedicated early-phase trial facility, aiming to cut the need for mainland travel for qualifying patients. Local Education & Child Safety: Hawaii advocates are concerned a federal Head Start overhaul could loosen class-size and staffing rules, potentially affecting classroom safety and teacher retention. Health Policy & Access: A new statewide cell phone policy takes effect for public schools, limiting phone use during instruction to improve focus. Consumer Health: Hawaiʻi’s Office of Consumer Protection is urging eligible Mercedes diesel owners to schedule free approved emission fixes and file for incentives up to $2,000 before late-summer deadlines. Food Security: Hawaii Foodbank’s Food Drive Day on Aug. 29 will support services for people facing hunger across the islands. Research & Resilience: UH West Oʻahu faculty published an open-access e-book on food system resilience and disaster preparedness, built from Hawaiʻi-focused work. Kidney Disease Update: Otsuka released Phase 3 results showing VOYXACT (sibeprenlimab-szsi) stabilized kidney function decline in IgA nephropathy over two years.

Hawaiʻi Public Health & Safety: Kauaʻi police reported a woman was pulled from the waters below Ninini Point Lighthouse and later pronounced dead at Wilcox Medical Center; an autopsy is pending and officials said there’s no sign of foul play. Infectious Disease Watch: Michigan reported the nation’s first two deaths tied to a cyclosporiasis outbreak, with thousands ill nationwide as the parasite spreads across many states; health experts note dehydration is the main danger. Health Care Policy: CMS proposed changes to Medicare payments for hospital outpatient departments and ambulatory surgery centers, including a 2.4% 2027 rate increase and more oversight tied to shifting care to lower-cost outpatient settings. Local Governance & Health Access: Hawaiʻi’s Lt. Gov. Sylvia Luke and other indicted officials pleaded not guilty in the state bribery case involving alleged COVID testing funding. Community Health: Hawaii joins states suing the Trump administration over benefits data sharing with ICE, raising concerns about privacy and access to assistance programs. Workplace Injury: A forklift operator in Anchorage was injured when a shipping container fell onto the machine; officials said he’s expected to recover. School Health: Hawaiʻi teachers say aging facilities—like broken A/C and electrical issues—are disrupting learning as the new school year starts.

Maternal Health: CDC data show gestational hypertension is rising nationwide, with Hawaii seeing a 144% jump from 2016 to 2024—now about 1 in 10 pregnant women in the U.S. Public Safety (Road Crashes): Multiple serious crashes are hitting Oʻahu’s freeways, including a three-vehicle crash that briefly closed three lanes on Moanalua Freeway and separate H-1 and H-2 motorcycle crashes that sent riders to the hospital. Sleep & Health Policy: Doctors and sleep medicine groups warn that the Senate’s delay keeps the Nov. 1 “fall back” clock change on the calendar, arguing it disrupts circadian health—especially for travelers. Community Health Support: Vibrant Hawaiʻi is contacting households referred for disaster case management after March kona low storms, urging people to respond if they still need help. Native Hawaiian Leadership: OHA has launched a nationwide search for its next CEO/Administrator, with priority consideration for applications received by Sept. 4, 2026. Injury Prevention: A rescue tube program aims to expand flotation rescue stations statewide, targeting Hawaii’s high drowning rates.

Maternal Health: A CDC study finds gestational hypertension is rising nationwide, with Hawaii seeing a 144% jump from 2016 to 2024—about 1 in 10 pregnant women affected in 2024. Public Safety & Injury Prevention: Hawaii is expanding life-saving rescue tubes statewide after a grant-backed push, aiming to add hundreds more to help prevent drownings at dangerous coastal spots. Local Health & Community Recovery: Three years after the Lahaina wildfire, Front Street reopened to traffic, but hundreds of households still rely on FEMA housing support, underscoring ongoing health and stability needs. Hawaii Health Governance: The Office of Hawaiian Affairs launched a nationwide search for a new CEO/administrator as it faces a lawsuit from current CEO Stacy Ferreira. Road Safety: A deadly Kau rollover killed a 51-year-old Ocean View woman; on Oahu, a serious pedestrian hit near the Pali Golf Course sent a 35-year-old to the ER. Food Access: Hawaii’s SNAP benefits schedule for August 2026 is set for Aug. 3–5.

OHA Leadership Shake-Up: The Office of Hawaiian Affairs has launched a nationwide search for a new CEO/administrator as it faces a lawsuit from current CEO Stacy Ferreira, with trustees saying the process is open to anyone. Serious Injury Crash (Oʻahu): A 35-year-old man was hospitalized after being hit by a vehicle near the Pali Golf Course on Aug. 1; police did not report speed, alcohol or drugs. H-2 Freeway Mass-Casualty (Oʻahu): A two-car crash near Ka Uka Blvd on the H-2 injured nine people, including six children; EMS said the incident involved an apparent assault and that three northbound lanes were closed before reopening. Violence & Assault Case (Oʻahu): A 24-year-old man was indicted after an alleged stabbing inside a Wahiawa McDonald’s, with charges including first-degree assault and resisting arrest. Kau Traffic Death: A 51-year-old woman died after a rollover collision on Highway 11 in Kau; police opened a negligent homicide investigation and cited suspected speed/alcohol and seatbelt issues. Nutrition Aid (Hawaiʻi): SNAP benefit dates for August 2026 list Hawaiʻi payments for Aug. 3–5. Public Health Watch: U.S. water-system cyberattack concerns widened as officials warned of potential targeting of systems used to monitor water quality, with no confirmed unsafe drinking reported. Mental Health Data: A new national look at depression rates highlights how symptoms have risen in recent years and notes many people still don’t seek treatment.

Fitness & Longevity: Baywatch: Hawaii alum Brandy Ledford, 57, says her doctor pushed her toward heavier strength training for bone density and longevity, sharing her shift from yoga-sculpt to weight work and a Kauai women’s wellness retreat this September. Public Health Watch: Hawaiʻi DOH confirmed a 4th travel-related cyclosporiasis case in a military member based in Hawaiʻi; officials say community risk remains low. Medicaid Spending (Local): Waianae Medicaid claims for non-oral drug administration hit $662,805 in 2024; Aiea surgery claims reached $225,313; Ewa Beach dental services billed $125,512—each showing year-over-year increases. School Safety & Support: Oʻahu expands the school resource officer pilot to Nanakuli High & Intermediate, adding retired officers and emphasizing mentorship and prevention. Community Health Services: Hawaiʻi County schedules free household hazardous waste drop-offs in Hilo (Aug. 8) and Kona (Aug. 15). Injury & Safety: An 80-year-old woman died from injuries after a June pedestrian crash in Pearl City. Health Policy & Ethics: New York’s assisted suicide law is set to take effect Aug. 5, drawing renewed debate over safeguards and end-of-life care.

Public Health Watch: Hawaiʻi DOH confirmed a 4th cyclosporiasis case in 2026, involving a Hawaii-based military member who traveled internationally; officials say there’s no evidence of local spread and the risk to the general public remains low. Local Safety: An 80-year-old woman died more than a month after a pedestrian crash in Pearl City; police say the investigation is active and factors like speed, drugs, or alcohol are not yet known. Traffic Tragedy Update: In Iwilei, a 65-year-old woman identified as Linda Dyer died after being struck by a reversing vehicle in a parking lot; police do not suspect speed or alcohol, and an autopsy is pending. Wildfire Preparedness: Hawaiian Electric issued a Public Safety Power Shutoff watch for parts of Hawaiʻi Island due to high winds and dry conditions, urging residents to prepare for possible outages. Community Health & Housing: A Waimanalo kauhale project faces protests and a petition over concerns about public health risks, flooding, and who may be housed. Domestic Violence Safety: Hawaiʻi’s Commission on the Status of Women, judiciary, and coalition launched a statewide survivor survey to assess whether current protective order and stalking laws keep survivors safe.

Medicaid Work Rules: A federal judge denied Democratic-led states’ bid to pause new Medicaid work requirements, setting a Jan. 1 deadline for implementation and keeping the “medically frail” exemption fight in play. Blood Supply Crunch: The American Red Cross declared a national blood supply crisis as donor turnout drops; Blood Bank of Hawaii says supplies are tight and urges appointments for red blood cells and platelets. Cyclosporiasis Update: CDC reports cyclosporiasis has spread to 45 states with 6,707 lab-confirmed cases since May 1, as investigators track multiple outbreaks linked to contaminated food. Hawaiʻi Community & Wellness Funding: Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority announced $1.5M for 2026 Community Enrichment Program recipients, including health and wellness-focused projects. Maui ʻŌiwi Resources Grants: Maui County is accepting applications for ʻŌiwi Resources grants (July 31–Aug. 31) supporting cultural stewardship and community connections. Local Safety: Honolulu Fire Department airlifted a seriously injured hiker after a fall at Lanikai Pillbox, highlighting the need to match hikes to fitness and stay hydrated.

Blood Supply Alert: Blood Bank of Hawaii is urging donations as the American Red Cross declares a national blood supply crisis, citing extreme heat, poor air quality, and widespread foodborne illness—BBH says Hawaii has enough eligible donors, but turnout is at a four-year low. Food Safety: Hawaii DOH issued a red placard and shut down Baan Thai Family Cuisine in Kailua-Kona after finding rodent feces, pest entry points, improper food storage temperatures, missing date marking, and sanitizer/handwashing issues. Housing as Health Care: Gov. Josh Green and partners celebrated completion of Hoʻokahi Leo Kauhale Phase Two in Kalihi, adding 30 deeply affordable homes plus onsite health and supportive services for people transitioning from homelessness. Injury & Safety: A 65-year-old woman died after being struck by a reversing vehicle in an Iwilei parking lot; on Kauai, a motorcyclist was left in critical condition after a crash, and the driver was arrested. Training & Care Workforce: Hawaii Medical College earned USA TODAY’s “America’s Top Vocational Schools” recognition, highlighting its role in preparing healthcare workers for the islands. Community Health Reporting: Hawaii News Now received six SPJ Excellence in Journalism Awards, including investigative coverage on Hawaii’s kidney donation gap.

Hawaiʻi Food Safety: The state Department of Health shut down Honolulu’s Pier 21 Lunchroom after a critical inspection found no running water, issuing a red “closed” placard until the issue is fixed. Maternal Health: A new CDC report finds pregnancy-related high blood pressure is now affecting about 1 in 10 U.S. mothers, up sharply since 2016—raising long-term heart and stroke risk. Local Health & Care Access: Child & Family Service is blessing its new Hilo facility, expanding services including domestic violence support, sexual abuse treatment, and mental health counseling for Big Island families. Public Health Alerts: TRICARE on Hawaiʻi’s Main Island can get emergency prescription refills through Aug. 6 due to the Kawaihae Road Fire. Community Health & Environment: DLNR is accepting proposals for about $8 million in community restoration projects through the Green Fee, targeting forests, watersheds, wetlands, and climate resilience. Health System Watch: Hawaii Pacific Health’s Wilcox Medical Center received an Energy to Care award from the American Society for Health Care Engineering. Hawaiʻi Governance & Health Funding: Lt. Gov. Sylvia Luke and three co-defendants pleaded not guilty in a bribery conspiracy case tied to COVID-19 testing contracts, with a Sept. 28 trial date set. Foodborne Illness: Cyclosporiasis continues spreading, with cases now reported in 45 states as federal and FDA officials urge the public to stay alert for symptoms.