US jobless claims little changed last week at still-low level
Applications for U.S. state unemployment benefits were little changed last week, suggesting historically low layoffs as the labor market continues to recover.
Island life: A perfect end to Christmas Day
Sunset on Christmas Day from the Kona Palisades area.
US inflation-adjusted spending stagnates as prices surge
U.S. consumer spending, adjusted for inflation, stagnated in November as the fastest price gains in nearly four decades eroded purchasing power.
My Turn: Time of year to rejoice or seek help?
I read the Dec. 20 story on sentencing of Adam Kepoo for extreme assault of a woman.
Commentary: Perpetual stress is taking a toll on all of us
As the head of Bridges, which sponsors 25 ministries in six states, I’ve seen our local leaders learning how to live and function during a dangerous malady which is impacting millions of people. But I don’t mean COVID-19; I mean the PTSD that results from it.
Albizia fight to continue in 2022: BIISC hopeful to obtain new grant funding for program
The ongoing war against albizia trees will continue in Puna next year after a lean 2021.
All-BIIF D-I girls volleyball: Kamehameha sophomore Honma easy choice as volleyball player of year
Kamehameha outside hitter Maela Honma dominated BIIF competition, knocking down 14 kills against Hilo High in a sweep for the league title, 14 kills against Waiakea during a sweep and 12 kills against Hilo in an earlier sweep.
As I See It: Vocal minorities intimidate majority members
It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas of 1934. Vocal minorities intimidate majority members from expressing disagreement with minority opinion. A conservative mob (oxymoron?) stormed the U.S. Capitol; at least they didn’t burn it like the Reichstag. In Hawaii, it’s a protest of a scientific instrument but the trend is worldwide. Once upon a time, thanks to Jimmy Carter’s human-rights-first-policies every dictator in Latin America except Fidel Castro was overthrown. Some Latin American countries are dictatorships again. Cults of personality, are governing all over the world. Nationalist leaders rallying the rabble with illogical calls to repeal the postwar Marshall Plan world and return to the order of 1913, or 1813. Immigrants are perceived as the enemy.
Commentary: Start small to change the world
As we reach the end of another tumultuous year, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Besides the ongoing pandemic and concerted assault on democracy, we’ve had deadly tornadoes, another mass school shooting, and a U.S. Supreme Court poised to outlaw abortion.
New Hawaii laws to take effect Jan. 1
A law that will make it more difficult to build “ghost guns” is among a number of new laws that will take effect next month.
988 suicide phone hotline getting $282M to ease July launch
WASHINGTON — People in crisis and those trying to help them will have a new phone number — 988 — to reach the national suicide prevention network starting in July. On Monday, federal health officials announced more than $280 million to smooth the transition from the current 10-digit number to three digits.
Spanish eruption’s end brings ‘emotional relief,’ rebuilding
MADRID — Authorities on one of Spain’s Canary Islands declared a volcanic eruption that started in September officially finished Saturday following 10 days of no lava flows, seismic activity or significant sulfur dioxide emissions.
Infrared measurements help HVO scientists unravel Kilauea’s gas chemistry
Most people in Hawaii know about sulfur dioxide (SO2) gas, the major component of vog. But, have you ever found yourself wanting to know the SO2/HCl (sulfur dioxide/hydrogen chloride) ratio in volcanic gas? Or the amount of CO2 (carbon dioxide) dissolved in volcanic glass?
Create balance, symmetry in your space
Ever wonder why some spaces feel off, while others have a sense of harmony? One key reason may relate to principles of balance and symmetry within the space. Symmetry allows for a harmonious feel through the use of identical elements, while balance can be created through dissimilar elements that blend well together.
Stop the fraud before it starts: Look out for these contractor red flags
It’s frightening to think the contractors you pay to work on your home may not always have your best interests at heart. While most pros take their duty of good work seriously, there are still those who seek to take advantage of people’s trust. Fear not, though; there is a solution for every underhanded scheme. And in all cases, the best solution is to stop the fraud before it starts. Here’s our rundown of some of the most common scams and the best way to avoid them.
Island life: Wonderous Waipio
Waipio Valley is seen from the the lookout area.
National and world news at a glance
As COVID disrupts 2nd Christmas, Pope prays for healing and peace
Space telescope launched on daring quest to behold 1st stars
The world’s largest and most powerful space telescope rocketed away Saturday on a high-stakes quest to behold light from the first stars and galaxies and scour the universe for hints of life.
Jury trials suspended again due to virus surge
Hawaii Chief Justice Mark E. Recktenwald on Thursday issued an order once again postponing the start of jury trials in Hawaii’s courts until after Feb. 28.
Electric stun guns to become legal on Jan. 1
Beginning Jan. 1, most private citizens in Hawaii 21 and older can legally carry a Taser or electric stun gun for self-protection.
Runnin’ with Rani: Big Island Time Trial Championships
The Hawaii Cycling Club ended their year on a high note as 30 cyclists competed in the Big Island Time Trial Championships held on Dec. 11.
Grainger gifts Georgia State a 51-20 Camellia Bowl win
MONTGOMERY, Ala. — Darren Grainger and Georgia State saved their best for the last game of the season — and especially for a thoroughly dominating third quarter.
Rodgers sets team record as Packers hold off Browns 24-22
GREEN BAY, Wis. — Rasul Douglas and the Green Bay Packers’ pass defense didn’t let the Cleveland Browns spoil Aaron Rodgers’ milestone day.
Warriors top Suns for NBA lead; Nets return to beat Lakers
PHOENIX — Stephen Curry had 33 points, Otto Porter Jr. scored seven of his 19 during a key late stretch and the Golden State Warriors regained to top spot in the NBA from Phoenix, beating the Suns 116-107 on Saturday.
Banged-up Colts shrug off injuries, beat Cardinals 22-16
GLENDALE, Ariz. — The Indianapolis Colts have beaten some teams with Jonathan Taylor’s legs, some with Carson Wentz’s arm and a few with stellar defense. They added another formula for a victory Saturday night: sheer grit.
