Business briefs

Advertiser Staff and News Services

Cayetano wins BIO award

The Biotechnology Industry Organization yesterday awarded Gov. Ben Cayetano its annual BIO Governor of the Year award.

The award recognizes individuals at the state and federal levels who consistently support and promote issues of importance to the biotechnology community.

"Gov. Cayetano and the Hawai'i Legislature have demonstrated strong commitment to establishing Hawai'i as a center of excellence for biotechnological research by enacting sweeping economic development and pro-technology legislation," said Val Giddings, BIO vice president of food and agriculture. "The governor's support of investment incentives for the Hawai'i biotechnology industry serves as a model for other states wishing to promote innovative research and development."

The Washington, D.C.-based BIO represents more than 1,000 biotechnology companies, academic institutions, state biotech centers and related organizations in 34 countries.

Bio-businesses generate more than $320 million in operating revenues statewide, according to the economic development agency Enterprise Honolulu.

Union workers rally at Ilikai

Members of Local 5 of the Hotel Employees and Restaurant Employees rallied yesterday in front of the Renaissance Ilikai as talks continue with hotel officials on securing a labor agreement for 300 workers at the hotel.

Unionized employees at the Ilikai have been working under a contract extension for several months. Union and hotel officials continue to negotiate; the next talks are set for next week.

The Ilikai is one of two hotels that do not yet have contracts with Local 5. About 450 employees at Ala Moana Hotel have been working without a contract extension after the hotel decided not to extend their contract.

Union officials have said they hope to reach a contract deal with the Ilikai before turning to the Ala Moana Hotel.