Excellence in Education tournament to raise scholarship money.

The Maui Hotel & Lodging Association’s 12th Annual Excellence in Education Golf Tournament, presented by Maui Land & Pineapple Company, will be held on Friday, Aug. 29, at The Dunes at Maui Lani. The 7 a.m. shotgun start will be followed by an awards luncheon. This popular event provides scholarships for high school students participating in Maui’s Academy of Hospitality & Tourism and Maui Community College students in the culinary, business and hospitality programs.

The 2008 event is presented by Maui Land & Pineapple Company Inc. Prizes will be awarded to the top 12 teams and may include items donated by members of the Maui Hotel & Lodging Association such as accommodation stays, dining certificates, golf certificates, merchandise and more.

“Our company supports educational opportunities for Maui County youth because they will take us into the future,” said Teri Freitas Gorman, vice president/corporate communications. ”Sustainability means perpetuating our culture through our kama‘aina. Education is one way to ensure they will have the choice to raise their own families here.”

“We are honored to include presenting sponsor Maui Land & Pine as the visitor industry celebrates 12 years of giving back to our future business leaders,” said Carol Reimann, MHLA executive director. Proceeds from last year’s tournament provided $14,000 in scholarships. “It is our goal to exceed this amount in 2008!” she said.

The tournament is open to the public. Advanced registration required. Information on individual and team fees, sponsorships and registration forms are available online at www.mauihla.org or may be requested by calling the Maui Hotel & Lodging Association office at 244-8625 or via email at info@mauihla.org.

The Maui Hotel & Lodging Association is a nonprofit organization founded in 1987 as an advocate for the visitor industry. The organization also provides educational opportunities and scholarships, and gives back to the community via the annual Visitor Industry Charity Walk, Excellence in Education Golf Tournament and Kupuna Dinner. For additional information, contact MHLA at 244-8625.