Happy
Honolulu
Saturday, December 13th, 2025
Good morning, Honolulu. Here's your local news at a glance for Saturday, the 13th of December.
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ After a two-year break, Ballet Hawaii returns with its Hawai‘i-themed adaptation of The Nutcracker at Blaisdell Concert Hall, showcasing local history and culture for holiday audiences. KITV
ECONOMY NEWS
- ➤ The Hawaii State Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism reported on Dec. 10 that the seasonally adjusted unemployment rate for September dropped to 2.5% from 2.7%, while the state added 9,500 jobs compared to last year (based on DBEDT data), reflecting a strong local job market. Hawaii Free Press
- ➤ The University of Hawaii Economic Research Organization warned that Hawaii will face a mild recession in 2026 as falling tourism and rising living costs impact local businesses & jobs across most sectors. Small business owners say tighter spending may continue as the economy adjusts. KITV
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Researchers at the University of Hawaii Institute for Astronomy (IfA) are changing how scientists study the Sun with new methods developed to improve solar observations. The breakthrough work may lead to more accurate tracking of solar activity. Hawaii News Now
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said she will review the case of Purple Heart veteran Sae Joon Park, who self-deported from Hawaii to South Korea in June to avoid forced removal. Lawmakers expressed concern — highlighting his military record — and urged finding a pathway for his return. Hawaii Business
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ The UH Hilo women’s basketball team, with all Hawaii-born starters from across the islands, is playing in Oahu this weekend and will face Hawaii Pacific in the Shark Tank today. Hawaii News Now
- ➤ Thousands of runners and supporters are in town for the 53rd Honolulu Marathon weekend today — one of the nation’s largest races — as event representative Tim Marr discussed the plans with GMH. KITV
- ➤ University of Hawaii kicker Kansei Matsuzawa was named to the Walter Camp All-America first team today after a season marked by strong field goal success at the university. He credited teammates and coaches for playing a key role in his recognition by one of the NCAA's five All-America teams. Honolulu Star-Advertiser
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
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