Horizon Lines, the second-largest shipper of goods to Hawai'i, took part in two recent anti-piracy system trials on the Mainland as part of an ongoing effort to better protect the lives of merchant mariners.

On Aug. 11, the Horizon Challenger participated in a test of SAFE Solutions LLC "Nemesis 5000" anti-piracy technology in Bayonne, N.J. The Nemesis 5000 is a nonlethal, high-pressure water system which integrates with a vessel's existing fire suppression system to prevent unauthorized boarding of the ship.

In late July, International Maritime Security Network LLC conducted safety drills and anti-piracy testing aboard the Horizon Crusader while the ship was docked in Orange, Texas. IMSN tested its "Triton Shield APS" system of deterrence and training. Included in the system drill were deterrent measures for approaching vessels, physical deterrents for potential unlawful boarders, security and fortification for the crew, and mitigating risk of penetration of the safe area.

HOMEOWNERS INVITED TO FREE SEMINAR

Hawai'i homeowners can learn more details of President Obama's new financial stability plan — including how it will allow people to refinance even though the values of their home have declined, and about loan modification, which could push homeowners' interest rates to as low as 2 percent — in a free seminar this morning.

Coldwell Banker Pacific Properties is hosting the event from 10 to 11:30 a.m. at the Hawaii HomeOwnership Center, 1259 'A'ala St. No. 201.

Other topics include how a short sale helps homeowners and answers to questions about bankruptcy options. Call 947-8110 for reservations.

Hawai'i bankruptcy filings have been rising steadily for more than a year as individuals and businesses succumbed to the state's economic downturn. Figures from the U.S. Bankruptcy Court show there were 270 filings in July, up 72 percent from the same month a year ago.