Skywatch: Astronomy news and happenings
W.M. Keck Observatory atop Maunakea and the University of Hawai‘i Institute for Astronomy’s Pan-STARRS on Haleakala teamed up to investigate a faint red star speeding across the galaxy.
Rick Steves: Vibrant, historic Dresden is worth a detour
Intriguing Dresden, Germany, winds up on far fewer American itineraries than it deserves to. Don’t make that mistake. Since its horrific firebombing in World War II, the city has transitioned to a thriving cultural center that’s well worth a visit. Even with only a day to spare, Dresden is a doable side trip from bigger attractions like Berlin or Prague.
SpaceX to return Boeing’s Starliner astronauts from space next year, NASA says
Two NASA astronauts who flew to the International Space Station in June aboard Boeing’s faulty Starliner capsule will need to return to Earth on a SpaceX vehicle early next year, NASA officials said on Saturday, deeming issues with Starliner’s propulsion system too risky to carry its first crew home as planned.
$400,000 grant to help farmers control feral pigs
East Hawaii farmers could be reimbursed for the cost of installing or replacing ungulate fences through a federal grant program.
‘Kokua over competition’: KTA acquires Takata Store in North Kohala
Hilo-based Puna Plantation Hawaii Ltd., the parent company of KTA Super Stores, KTA Express and KTA Pharmacy, will officially acquire K. Takata Store in Kapaau on Sept. 23.
Russia, Ukraine swap 115 prisoners each
Russia and Ukraine exchanged 115 prisoners of war from each side on Saturday after the United Arab Emirates acted as an intermediary.
Gaza ceasefire talks resume in Cairo, with no sign of progress
Gaza ceasefire and hostage negotiators discussed new compromise proposals in Cairo on Saturday, seeking to bridge gaps between Israel and Hamas, but there was no indication of progress after hours of talks.
Volcano Watch: Volcanic tremor or distant earthquake? Distinguishing seismic signals
The island of Hawaii is one of the most seismically active areas in the world, producing thousands of earthquakes every year. It also commonly produces a signal called tremor that can originate from the volcanic system.
Tropical Gardening: Manures and other nutrient sources to enrich our young volcanic soils
Our young volcanic soils are often in need of organic matter and nutrients. Where animal manures are available they are probably the best source of fertilizer. Compost and mulch can also help to add and hold nutrients.
Diana Duff: A garden of giants
Gardeners who are thinking of a sort of stay-cation, might want to consider a quick trip to Oahu to visit some of the wonderful botanical gardens near Honolulu.
RFK Jr ends US presidential campaign, endorses Trump. How will it affect the race?
Independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. abandoned his campaign on Friday and endorsed Republican Donald Trump, ending a run that he began as a Democrat trading on one of the most famous names in American politics.
Tropical storm warning, red flag alert posted as Hone approaches Big Island
Forecasters are predicting Tropical Storm Hone will bring a deluge to East Hawaii this weekend.
Former Trump advisor Steve Bannon must face NY criminal fraud trial, judge rules
NEW YORK — Former Donald Trump advisor Steve Bannon must face trial in New York on criminal-fraud charges over a push to fund the former U.S. president’s signature wall along the U.S.-Mexico border, a judge ruled on Friday. Justice April Newbauer’s decision to deny Bannon’s motion to dismiss the charges paves the way for a trial set to start on Dec. 9, just six weeks after he is scheduled to be released from federal prison. Bannon is serving a four-month sentence for defying a congressional subpoena. Bannon, 70, was charged by Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg’s office in September 2022 with money laundering and conspiracy for allegedly deceiving donors who contributed more than $15 million to the private fundraising drive, known as “We Build the Wall.”
Obituaries for August 24
Editor’s note: Obituaries are published free of charge as a public service. Content is subject to editing for parity treatment and style continuity. Date of publication cannot be guaranteed. Any questions regarding obituaries should be directed to the mortuary or to obituaries@westhawaiitoday.com. Memorial advertisements with photos may be purchased through the newspaper advertising department.
Wall Street ends sharply higher as Powell cements September rate cut hopes
U.S. stocks rallied on Friday as dovish remarks from U.S. Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell solidified expectations that the central bank will cut its key policy rate in September.
With election approaching, US national security chief to visit China
WASHINGTON — White House National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan will travel to China next week for talks with top Chinese diplomat Wang Yi, a visit aimed at keeping U.S.-China tensions in check with the November U.S. election fast approaching.
Biden speaks with Zelenskyy, announces new military aid for Ukraine
President Joe Biden spoke to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Friday and announced a new military aid package ahead of Ukraine’s Independence Day on Saturday, their offices said.
Trump struggles to keep media spotlight in battle with Harris
Donald Trump touted his plan to end taxation on tips at a stop in Las Vegas on Friday, trying to turn the page on a week in which he was overshadowed by Kamala Harris and struggled to keep focus on policy issues and not personal attacks on his opponent.
HCFCU’s Nellie Medeiros honored with Lifetime Achievement Award
WAIMEA — Hawaii Community Federal Credit Union is proud to announce that Nellie Medeiros, HCFCU’s corporate development and marketing manager, has been awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award by the Kona-Kohala Chamber of Commerce. The award, presented at the Chamber’s annual Governor’s Luncheon at the Fairmont Orchid on July 2, recognizes Nellie’s contributions and service to the community over her incredible 51-year career with HCFCU.
Island life photo for August 24 — Rainbow haze
Island life photo for August 24 — Rainbow haze