The 2018 Po‘okela Legacy Award went to Jim Coon (center), CEO of Trilogy Excursions. Also pictured are Thomas Foti and Lisa Paulson of the Maui Hotel & Lodging Association. PHOTOS BY PACIFIC DREAM PHOTOGRAPHY.

WAILUKU – On Sept. 21, the Maui Hotel & Lodging Association (MHLA) honored individuals as well as a superior overall property and business that contributed to Maui’s hospitality industry through exceptional service, professionalism and the “aloha spirit.”

This is the second year for the annual awards in the following categories: Outstanding Property; Outstanding Allied (Business) Member; Outstanding Employee; and Legacy Award.

This year’s winners were: Outstanding Property – The Andaz at Wailea Resort; Outstanding Allied Member – Maui Electric Company; Outstanding Employee – Lucie Ormsby, banquet wait help, Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa; and Legacy Award – Jim Coon, CEO, Trilogy Excursions.

“These annual awards are another way for us to honor the outstanding work we see in our industry,” said Lisa Paulson, MHLA executive director.

“We are an organization that represents Maui County’s visitor industry, and therefore, we like to give recognition and show our appreciation for those who continue to make Maui a premier destination.”

The Maui Hotel & Lodging Association is a nonprofit organization founded in 1987 to advocate for the visitor industry.

For additional information, visit www.mauihla.org, call 244-8625, or e-mail info@mauihla.org. n