Happy
Honolulu
Thursday, January 1st, 2026
Good morning, Honolulu. Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 1st of January.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Teen Spencer Allen, who saved Mark Miyashiro from his sinking boat off East Oahu on Nov. 24, was reunited with Miyashiro at Koko Kai Mini Park + received a mayoral award on Wednesday. Honolulu Star-Advertiser
- ➤ On Nov. 24, 2025, near Portlock, teen waterman Spencer Allen rescued boater Mark Miyashiro when a large wave swamped their boat. The two reunited on Wednesday, Dec. 31, at China Walls where Allen received an award for his courage + quick thinking from city officials. KITV
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ Hawaii News Now interviewed American Savings Bank CEO Ann Teranishi, named Hawaii Business Magazine's 2025 CEO of the Year, who discussed managing money during uncertain times. Hawaii News Now
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Honolulu locals can kick off the weekend with events. Enjoy Iam Tongi concerts today in Waikīkī + a bead show in Kaka‘ako, an art exhibit honoring Honouliuli internment history open until Jan. 17, UH Men’s Volleyball matches in Mānoa and a plant intention workshop in Kaimukī. Honolulu Magazine
ECONOMY NEWS
- ➤ Oahu piers saw a flood of fresh fish as buyers stocked up ahead of New Year’s Eve celebrations — fueling a busy start to the holiday season. Hawaii News Now
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Honolulu police are using drones to spot illegal fireworks today as the city works to keep residents safe after last year's tragedy. Under a new law, violators may face a $300 fine and jail time — officials urge community help. KITV
- ➤ State officials warned Honolulu residents that cybercriminals are using codify.inc to mimic state agencies by setting up fake websites. Residents are advised to check URLs for the .gov ending & to report any suspicious sites. Honolulu Star-Advertiser
- ➤ The Hawaii Department of Transportation will launch the 2026 Safe Roads Challenge—promoting safe driving after traffic fatalities surged in 2025. Officials held Drive with Aloha Day at Honolulu Hale as community and police members showed support for the campaign. Honolulu Star-Advertiser
- ➤ Following last New Year's Eve tragedy, Honolulu officials are ramping up enforcement on illegal fireworks as the city prepares for the holiday. Police will use drones and issue $300 citations, and residents are urged to report issues via the tip line (808-517-2182) to help prevent another incident. KITV
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ Hawaii sports had a remarkable 2025 season with teams like the Crusaders, Monarchs, and Raiders marking historic wins and milestones such as the first girls' flag football game and NFL draftees. The review notes prep surfing will debut in 2026 (adding fresh hope) for local athletes. Hawaii News Now
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