SCRLA announces hospitality award winners, finalists.

The S.C. Restaurant and Lodging Association on Tuesday announced its statewide finalists for the 68th annual S.C. Hospitality Industry Awards. Winners will be presented their awards on Feb. 1 at the DoubleTree by Hilton Columbia.

The awards recognize "exceptional professionalism and outstanding service of top individuals in the hospitality industry," according to a news release.

"Although these are difficult times, that makes it even more important to take advantage of opportunities to celebrate outstanding accomplishments," John Durst, president and CEO of the association, said in the release. "That's one reason why we are looking forward so very much to honoring the best of the best in the South Carolina's tourism industry. Honoring exceptional work which exemplifies the highest standards and best practices of the hospitality industry on a daily basis will be a special, memorable occasion for our industry."

Tickets for the awards gala will be $40 for association members and $55 for non-members.

Award winners include:

Hospitality Educator of the Year: Robin DiPietro of the University of South Carolina

Hospitality Supplier of the Year: David Evans of Asheville Hwy Rentals

Outstanding Community Service Program: Palmetto Promotions

Outstanding Community Service Leader (private sector): Matthew Shirah of Scofflaw Brewing Company

Outstanding Community Leader (public sector): S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control

Finalists for the Our Stars of the Industry award include:

Hotelier of the Year: Andrew Cajka of Spartanburg Marriott

Lodging Manager of the Year: Ashley Johnson of Courtyard by Mariott Columbia and Tony Lee of Sheraton Myrtle Beach

Lodging Front of House Employee of the Year: Darren Whitaker of Meeting Street Inn and Toby Wiggers of Graduate Columbia

Lodging Heart of House...

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