AGP Executive Report

Congress & Iran: The U.S. House voted 214-208 to require President Trump to stop using U.S. forces against Iran unless Congress explicitly authorizes it, with four Republicans—including Pennsylvania Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick—joining Democrats; the move is largely symbolic but signals cracks in GOP unity as the conflict escalates. Philadelphia Homelessness: Philadelphia’s unsheltered homelessness fell sharply in the latest point-in-time count, with overall homelessness down nearly 7% year over year and the number sleeping outside dropping 39%—the first decline in two years. Wildlife & Safety: A rare eastern massasauga rattlesnake bite in Michigan has renewed attention on how to identify the only venomous snake in the state, a reminder for Pennsylvania residents who spend time in wetlands and summer outdoors. Health Watch: New research links GLP-1 weight-loss/diabetes drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro to a higher risk of sudden, non-scarring hair loss. Sports (Philly): The Phillies’ recent baserunning miscues have been a talking point after a 9-5 Dodgers win, while the MLB trade deadline looms with names like Tarik Skubal drawing major attention. Local Events: Philadelphia’s Independence Day Regatta returns this weekend on the Schuylkill River with free admission and thousands of rowers expected.

Sports Betting & Health Research: A Penn Medicine professor won a $2.6M grant to study whether legal sports betting affects suicide rates, with results due over 2026-2028. Penn Vet Funding: Pennsylvania’s 2026-27 budget sets aside $31.56M for Penn Vet, plus $1.793M for infectious diseases, with quarterly payments and a use report due in 2027. GLP-1 Hair Loss Study: New research using Penn Medicine data links GLP-1 drugs to a higher risk of hair loss (though the overall risk is low), adding to growing scrutiny of side effects. Philadelphia Safety & Infrastructure: Philadelphia’s Parallel Parking Association is launching a “parallel parking champion” contest, while Lansing (not PA) received a $1.2M federal grant to plan safety upgrades at an I-96 interchange. Local Courts & Public Safety: Two Catasauqua men face serious charges after an Election Day explosive device incident near a polling place; separately, two Pennsylvania men were sentenced to life in prison for mailing a bomb tied to a drug debt. Pennsylvania Community & Agriculture: The new state budget includes $10M for freeze disaster assistance for farmers hit by late-April crop losses. Dodgers-Phillies Update: Shohei Ohtani threw a bullpen session ahead of Wednesday’s game, and the Dodgers beat the Phillies 9-5, with Max Muncy driving the go-ahead homer.

Local Infrastructure: Taylor Township secured a nearly $1.3 million loan from the Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority for a sewage treatment plant project, aiming to move the work forward. Road Work Update: PennDOT says the Parkway East should reopen by mid-next week after crews replaced the Commercial Street Bridge near the Squirrel Hill Tunnel, with traffic impacts so far described as limited. Sports & Community: The Philadelphia SC Surf 11 Coppa Storm Black won the U15 US Youth Soccer Presidents Cup, a national title earned despite playing shorthanded through a grueling schedule. Health & Kids: Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia announced a $50 million gift to create the David M. Einhorn Institute for Early Relational Health, focused on improving pediatric care through the science of early human connection. Local Events: The Price Is Right is holding open casting auditions in Philadelphia Wednesday, and Boyertown’s Museum of Historic Vehicles will host its 60th-anniversary Cars & Cones event in August. Pro Sports Buzz: The Miami Heat accidentally posted a LeBron James press-conference link on YouTube before deleting it, fueling speculation that includes the Philadelphia 76ers among possible destinations.

Business & Local Economy: Pep Boys, founded in Philadelphia, is being sold by Carl Icahn’s company to Mavis Tire Express Services for $700 million, with Pep Boys keeping its brand and expanding Mavis to more than 4,400 locations. Sports (Philadelphia): The Phillies fell 2-1 to the Dodgers as Max Muncy hit a two-run homer and Philadelphia’s ninth-inning rally ended on a double play; Wednesday’s rematch is set at Citizens Bank Park. Public Safety & Courts: A former Allentown police officer accused of sex crimes says investigators influenced an accuser’s identification, according to a new filing. Immigration & Federal-State Clash: The DOJ filed 27 lawsuits against sanctuary cities and states over limits on Trump deportation efforts, including actions involving Philadelphia. Weather & Recovery: West Philadelphia residents are still cleaning up after July 11 storms that caused flooding and damage. Legal Rights: Pennsylvania’s Supreme Court rejected the “open fields doctrine,” strengthening protections for private property owners.

LPGA Hall of Fame: Nancy Lopez recalled the glitzy 1987 induction party—and the tour now has a chance to bring back the kind of big, memorable celebration fans miss. Golf Rules: A 17-year-old from Ponte Vedra Beach, James Nagle, was disqualified from the U.S. Junior Amateur for using green-reading materials at Saucon Valley in Pennsylvania. Health Watch: Infectious disease experts say clinicians should test for cyclosporiasis (Cyclospora) in patients with persistent watery diarrhea and related symptoms as the CDC reports a sharp rise in cases this summer. Philadelphia Sports: The Phillies host the Dodgers Tuesday night at Citizens Bank Park with Zack Wheeler vs. Justin Wrobleski, and the game is set for 6:40 p.m. Local Crime: Police say a 17-year-old was shot multiple times outside a McDonald’s in East New York, and investigators are still searching for the gunman. Pennsylvania Business & Energy: Exus Renewables North America closed $356 million in construction financing for two Pennsylvania wind projects, signaling continued momentum for clean power in the state.

Sports & Health Watch: Shohei Ohtani’s left-knee irritation has pushed his Dodgers start back, with manager Dave Roberts saying he’ll try to throw off a mound later this week but there’s no clear return timetable. Local Sports: Philadelphia’s Perkiomen Valley Twilight League Dirt Dawgs beat Spring-Ford 12-1 in Game 1 of the quarterfinals. Public Safety: A former Rockwood police detective, Charles Crothers, is serving a 12.5-year federal sentence in Lewisburg for attempted enticement of a child. Crime: Chester County prosecutors say handyman David Vincent Rosa faces 300+ charges, including rape of a child and child pornography, tied to attacks he allegedly recorded. Food Safety: Taylor Farms expanded a voluntary recall of shredded lettuce shipped to 27 states, including Pennsylvania and New Jersey, amid the Cyclospora outbreak; FDA says consumers should avoid the products even after a “false positive” test. Weather: The National Weather Service warns of scattered severe storms Tuesday and Wednesday, with tornado risk in parts of the region. Civic/Community: Bucks County’s Playa Raya held a ribbon cutting for an inclusive adaptive pool and splash pad for kids with disabilities.

Wildfire smoke and air alerts: Western Pennsylvania stayed under “Code Orange” conditions as Canadian wildfire haze lingered, with Kennywood and other venues closing and officials urging residents to limit time outdoors. Public health and food safety: The FDA said a Taylor Farms iceberg lettuce sample was a false positive for cyclospora after re-review, but the company is still recalling affected lettuce sold across many states including Pennsylvania. Crime in Philadelphia: Police say suspects shot a man and a dog in Kensington while robbing a homeless encampment resident; the victim is in critical condition and detectives are reviewing surveillance. Politics: Sen. John Fetterman warned he could leave the Democrats if the party moves against military aid to Israel. Pennsylvania economy and policy: The state budget debate continues as lawmakers criticize deferred medical assistance payments that shift big costs into later years. Local business: 7th Street Burger is set to open in University City, bringing smashburgers to Philadelphia’s student-heavy neighborhood.

Courts & Justice: Pennsylvania lawmakers recessed Sunday without fixing the state Supreme Court’s unconstitutional second-degree murder sentencing scheme, leaving about 1,000 life-sentenced inmates in limbo and raising the odds the July 24 deadline is missed. Public Health: Taylor Farms expanded its iceberg lettuce recall tied to a possible cyclospora outbreak, pulling products from stores in 27 states including Pennsylvania. Air Quality: DEP issued a Code Orange Air Quality Alert for western Pennsylvania counties as wildfire smoke persists. Local Economy: Gov. Josh Shapiro announced nearly $61.7M in Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program grants across Fayette, Greene and Washington counties. Sports (Philly): Shohei Ohtani won’t pitch for “some time” due to left knee irritation, with the Dodgers waiting before testing the injury in Philadelphia. Pro Sports (Pittsburgh): Pirates rookie Esmyllyn Valdez keeps rolling, hitting his 12th homer in 31 games. Weather: Forecasters warn strong storms could return Tuesday, with damaging winds and heavy rain possible.

Ice Cream Spotlight: Instacart’s National Ice Cream Day roundup says vanilla is America’s top pick nationwide, with chocolate and cookie dough close behind. Chester County Crime: Authorities say ex-Giants RB Saquon Barkley’s home in Malvern was hit by a burglary early Saturday; police are asking for tips and camera footage, including from a possible white SUV. Work & Careers: A new look at remote work finds young workers worry it’s slowing promotions and stalling early career momentum. Public Safety: Pennsylvania State Police are seeking the owners of two pickup trucks tied to a fatal I-79 hit-and-run that killed 42-year-old Benjamin Kachick. Housing Market: Foreclosures are rising again, with foreclosed homes often selling about 27% below typical value—though buyers should expect “as-is” repairs. Health & Costs: A Philly-area doctor argues medication pricing is a major barrier to treatment, not just a side issue. Philadelphia Science: CHOP is partnering with Abu Dhabi to train scientists in gene-editing therapies. Food Safety: Taylor Farms expanded a voluntary recall of iceberg lettuce shipped to 27 states, including Pennsylvania, tied to a cyclospora outbreak. Sports: The Phillies beat the Mets 6-1 and host the series finale Sunday.

Food Safety Recall: Taylor Farms expanded its voluntary recall of iceberg lettuce shipped from central Mexico after a cyclospora link tied to illnesses; the affected greens went to 27 states, including Pennsylvania and New Jersey, with “best by” dates as late as Aug. 3, and Sysco has halted distribution and told customers to destroy the products. Wildfire Smoke + Storms: Philadelphia and much of Pennsylvania are still dealing with wildfire haze and “very unhealthy” air, while an active severe weather setup brings heavy rain, flooding risk, and possible tornadoes into the region. Politics & Education: The state’s largest teachers union backed Republican U.S. Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick in Bucks County’s high-stakes reelection fight, praising his collaboration with school employees. Labor: Peco workers ratified a new union contract, bringing raises and pensions after months without an agreement. Sports (Philly): Kyle Schwarber and Trea Turner powered the Phillies to a 6-1 win over the Mets, with Jesús Luzardo strong on the mound. Local Crime: Police are investigating a burglary at Eagles star Saquon Barkley’s Malvern home; no injuries were reported.

Wildfire Smoke & Storms: Canadian wildfires are still driving “unhealthy” air across much of Pennsylvania, with officials warning conditions may linger even as some areas see improvement; meanwhile, severe thunderstorms are possible Saturday, including damaging wind, hail, and tornado risk in parts of the state, with Lancaster County among the areas watching the sky. State Budget & Schools: Pennsylvania’s new $50.8 billion budget is now signed, boosting education funding—extra money for districts including Lawrence County (about $3.3M) and Mercer County (about $4.8M)—but lawmakers and schools say costs and special-needs demand remain a heavy lift. SEPTA Special Prosecutor: The SEPTA-area special prosecutor role is funded through year-end, but its future is uncertain as state lawmakers decide whether to extend it beyond December into Larry Krasner’s third term. Elections & Voting Claims: Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin repeated Trump’s claim that more than 250,000 noncitizens are registered to vote in four states, while critics say the estimate may be inflated. Jobs Report: Pennsylvania’s unemployment rate fell to 4.1% in June, with record workforce and job growth reported by the Department of Labor & Industry. Philadelphia Sports & Culture: Phillies host the Mets Saturday, and Philly’s big summer sports run is being celebrated as the city keeps its spotlight—alongside local arts and music coverage.

School Policy: Pennsylvania’s new School Code adds a daily recess mandate (30 minutes minimum for full-day K-5), but does not include a bell-to-bell cellphone ban. Storm Recovery: PEMA is opening three Philadelphia-area resource centers for residents hit by last weekend’s microburst storms, offering help with insurance, benefits, and scam avoidance. Air Quality Crisis: A statewide Code Purple wildfire-smoke alert is in effect, with officials urging residents to stay indoors, keep windows closed, and limit outdoor time; Harrisburg canceled events as conditions worsen. Elections Under Pressure: Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin threatened fines and possible prosecution for election officials if states don’t follow federal election-security steps, including voter data sharing; Pennsylvania’s top election official says noncitizen voting is rare and disputes the federal figures. Utility Costs: The PUC approved a Pennsylvania American Water rate increase, with PFAS treatment and lead-line work cited. Sports (Philly): The Flyers agreed to a four-year, $26 million deal with defenseman Jamie Drysdale.

Air Quality Crisis: Pennsylvania is under a statewide Code Purple air quality alert as Canadian and Minnesota wildfire smoke pushes “very unhealthy” conditions across the state, with officials urging people to stay indoors and limit exertion; major attractions like Kennywood, Sandcastle, and Idlewild closed for the day. Philadelphia Neighborhood Watch: Philadelphia’s Mole Street redevelopment hit a snag after the city issued stop-work orders over work not matching approved plans for historically protected rowhouses. Politics & Voting Claims: Gov. Josh Shapiro slammed President Trump after a primetime speech revived false 2020 election claims, while Pennsylvania officials rejected DHS-linked assertions about noncitizen voting. Community & Culture: Lubavitch of Bucks County completed Phase 1 of the PlayaRaya accessible park in Northampton Township, expanding inclusive summer programming. Sports Under Smoke: The Mets-Phillies game went on in haze after wildfire smoke worsened, with start times adjusted and players reporting visibility issues. Local Economy: The Shapiro administration announced RACP investments across multiple regions, including $26.15M in Northwest Pennsylvania for community and economic development projects.

Wildfire Smoke Health Crisis: Pennsylvania’s air quality hit “Code Purple” levels as Canadian wildfire smoke blanketed the Philadelphia region and much of the state, with officials urging people to stay indoors and sensitive groups to avoid all outdoor activity; the Phillies even moved their game time up due to worsening conditions. Phillies Injury Update: Philadelphia’s bullpen took a major hit—reliever Brad Keller was diagnosed with a torn UCL and is expected to miss the rest of the season, with surgery possibly sidelining him into 2027. Mets vs. Phillies: Under the smoky sky, Francisco Alvarez homered twice and the Mets beat the Phillies 4-1, with Brett Baty also going deep. Measles Watch: Pennsylvania reported 19 measles hospitalizations since April, with an outbreak centered in Lancaster County and additional cases in western Chester County; health officials highlighted vaccination efforts and a new state dashboard. Local Public Safety: A Chester County DA said a police officer was legally justified in the shooting of a Pottstown man accused of stealing a police vehicle and trying to hit the officer. Penn State Costs: A Penn State board committee voted to raise tuition and room and board 2.5% for in-state University Park undergrads for 2027-28.

Air Quality Crisis: Pennsylvania is under a Code Red air quality alert Thursday as Canadian wildfire smoke rolls in, with York County warned that conditions are unhealthy for everyone and residents urged to limit outdoor activity. Defense & Jobs: At the Pennsylvania Defense and Innovation Summit in Carlisle, President Trump highlighted $10 billion in defense investments, while JPMorgan announced $24 million aimed at strengthening shipbuilding and training workers tied to the Philadelphia Navy Yard. Energy Costs: Gov. Josh Shapiro said his PJM settlement extension will protect consumers from higher electricity capacity prices, adding $13.3 billion in savings for 2028-29. Local Safety & Community: Pennsylvania State Police released Independence Day weekend enforcement numbers, and firefighters in Gladwyne rescued a golden retriever stuck in a tree. Politics & Policy: Pennsylvania and New Jersey moved forward on chip-enabled SNAP/EBT cards to reduce benefit theft, and a new Pennsylvania Supreme Court ruling makes wrongful-conviction fixes harder.

Defense & Jobs: President Trump wrapped up the Pennsylvania Defense and Innovation Summit in Carlisle, touting about $10 billion in new defense investments and 4,000+ Pennsylvania jobs, while also praising shipbuilding and weapons production efforts. Air Quality: The state DEP issued a statewide “Code Red” air alert for wildfire smoke, warning of unhealthy PM2.5 levels moving through Pennsylvania. Local Budget Pressure: Cambria and Somerset county leaders said the new $50.8B state budget brought relief, but still left mental health and 911 funding concerns unresolved. Education Funding: The budget adds $11.5M+ in new state education dollars for Cambria and Somerset districts. Philadelphia Safety Net: Philadelphia will take over the city’s sexual assault response center after years of funding uncertainty, with the Department of Public Health stepping in. Courts & Fair Trials: Pennsylvania’s Supreme Court made wrongful convictions harder to fix, raising alarms among advocates. Sports (Philly): The MLB All-Star Game in Philadelphia delivered a big Americana moment, including a “Sandlot” homage, as the AL won 4-0.