Edmund "Buster" Civerolo — who next month will mark 31 years working as a hotel bellman — yesterday was named the Outstanding Lodging Employee of the Year at the Hawai'i Hotel & Lodging Association's Na Po'e Pa'ahana (the hardworking people) awards luncheon at the Sheraton Waikiki.

Civerolo, 54, of Mo'ili'ili, works at the Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort & Spa. He said he was surprised by the award.

"Time really flies when you enjoy your job," he said.

Civerolo has worked at the same hotel his entire career, starting when the property was the Hawaiian Regent Hotel. "The economy's not doing well so I try to give more aloha," Civerolo said.

He was selected to receive the hotel industry's top annual award based on his dedication and commitment to serving guests and fellow employees.

"Buster is the epitome of the aloha spirit and if the hotel had a Hall of Fame, he would be one of the first associates to be inducted," said Lisa Kaalekahi, guest services manager at the Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort & Spa.

Recipients of the award are selected through nominations submitted by supervisors and co-workers, and are judged on the basis of outstanding and exceptional service to hotel guests, co-workers and the community. This year was the 19th annual luncheon.