Independence Day, Government, Taxes & More

Happy Independence Day. Today is the 4th of July and the United States of America celebrates its 233rd birthday. It's a good time to reflect and remember all of the freedoms we enjoy came at a great price throughout our history. The holiday is a good one to celebrate with friends and family as we take in the parades, celebrations and fireworks displays happening throughout our country.
Have a safe and happy holiday weekend.



Photos: Fireworks display at Aloha Tower, Honolulu Harbor 7-3-09, top. Above: U.S. Flags for sale at Downtown Honolulu First Friday event, 7-3-09. More photos at my Flickr pages.

Other News

• I was quite surprised to learn of Alaska Governor Sarah Palin's resignation from office yesterday. Is she making a presidential run or what? What are the reasons behind this? This won't look good on her resume.
• A couple of days ago, Governor Linda Lingle lost her case against implementing mandatory furloughs for state workers. A circuit court judge ruled that she did not have the power to implement furloughs until she negotiates with the state's public worker labor unions. She may layoff workers but I think she'll negotiate first. I just hope the Governor does not cave into union demands to raise taxes.
• The State Department of Education may resort to worker furloughs. They are facing a huge budget cut. The same may also apply to the University of Hawaii system.
  
• Governor Lingle vetoed HB 1405, a bill that would have taxed internet affiliate programs. Big websites such as Amazon.com were canceling Hawaii website links to their affiliate program after news of this tax bill became a hot topic.
• SB 1678 still lingers and that would implement a tax on consumer purchases from out of state firms (like Amazon.com) doing business on the internet and mail order. Contact the Governor and urge her to veto this bill. SB 1678 was introduced by Senate Majority (Democrats). They want more of our money!
  
• North Korea has launched a series of missiles this weekend. All short range and none reaching Hawaii so far.