Le Journal

Mini PCs were easy to dismiss in the past, but that's no longer the case. Most modern options are not underpowered or thermally constrained as small-sized computers used to be. Instead, many now deliver performance that's competitive with what you'd expect from mid to high-range desktop systems.

The state Legislature raises its curtain again on Wednesday revealing more than the usual degree of economic uncertainty that lawmakers confront each year. Not all the forecast figures are dire, but there is surely ample reason for Hawaii’s elected leaders to approach spending with rational caution.

A significant United Nations treaty to protect ocean wildlife and habitats in international waters — aka the high seas, or “the maritime Wild West,” outside any nation’s official jurisdiction — has been ratified, creating a framework for cooperative creation of environmentally protected zones. The 60 approvals required were reached in September, and 23 more have signed on since, though the U.S. is not one of them.

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