State lawmakers, again working into the early morning hours of the new fiscal year, approved a $3 billion state budget, raising taxes and cutting pay, to make up for an $800 million shortfall.

After eight years the $7 million facility is nearly complete.

The Joint Finance Committee has approved draft language that would allow state agencies to grant employees five days of leave in fiscal year 2010.

As the July 1 deadline approaches, legislators buckle down and reluctantly pass a slew of tax and fee increases to help fill the massive hole in the state's fiscal year 2010 budget.

Legislative briefs for the week of July 1, where bills outlaw Salvinorin A, declare strawberries the official state fruit, do away with the DSTP, use stimulus money to reward high-performing, low-income schools, block access to a healthcare facility and regulation adult entertainment more strictly.

John Pribanic Sr., a resident at the State Street Assisted Living Center, celebrated his 100th birthday this past week. Originally from Pittsburgh, Pribanic moved to the Dover area approximately five years ago.

Commissioners lauded the overall design, while bringing up a few questions about building materials on the roof and ends of the building.

  The Delaware State Police announced June 30 the retirement of its superintendent, Col. Thomas F. Mac Leish, effective July 1, and the appointment of an acting superintendent..

The state's law enforcement leaders celebrated the opening of its Mobile Tactical Trainer system at an event held June 25 north of Smyrna.

News briefs for the week of July 1:

• Sons of the American Revolution to honor patriots
  
• DART releases Fourth of July schedule
  
• Study shows DAFB to gain jobs in 2010

Wills, marriages and divorces for the week of July 1.

  Two Harrington men have been charged with allegedly faking a robbery.

  A Bridgeville man was arrested June 25 after he allegedly threw a knife while at the Kent County Courthouse.

Savings from GOP attrition plan to partially offset income tax hike.

  U.S. Rep. Mike Castle will hold a health care listening session from 1 to 2:30 p.m. Monday, June 28, at the Terry Campus, Dover.