Hawaii's tourism workers got public recognition from state leaders, a positive note for an industry that funds much of the state's economy.

• State officials marked National Hotel Workers Day by honoring local hospitality staff.
• Tourism brings in about $20 billion a year in Hawaii.
• That money flows into schools, state government, and daily life across the islands.
• Hotel and food service workers were called the backbone of the whole visitor industry.

Outlook: Hawaii stays heavily dependent on tourism money, so the health of the visitor industry remains the state's main economic story.