Three IHOP Hawaii employees are receiving special recognition for their heroic actions during an incident at Town Center of Mililani that prevented potential damage and ensured community safety. Liane, Jourdan, and Brandy, team members at IHOP Mililani, will be honored during the 2025 Pineapple Drop New Year's Eve Celebration, one of Central Oʻahu's most anticipated annual events, for their immediate response when a random individual set a decorative pineapple on fire in the loading dock area.
The employees' quick thinking and courageous actions extinguished the flames before the fire could spread, preventing damage to the building and surrounding businesses. Town Center of Mililani selected the three IHOP employees for special recognition during this year's Pineapple Drop celebration as they unveil their newly designed pineapple, highlighting the employees' calm decision-making, teamwork, and commitment to protecting others. The Pineapple Drop celebration is a cherished New Year's Eve tradition that brings together families, businesses, and community members from across the island.
"This recognition is incredibly well-deserved," said Chasity Brede, IHOP Hawaii Area Manager. "Liane, Jourdan, and Brandy demonstrated leadership, awareness, and heart in a moment that truly mattered. We couldn't be prouder of them." Honoring local heroes during the event reflects the spirit of aloha and the importance of looking out for one another in the community. IHOP Hawaii extends its sincere gratitude to the Town Center of Mililani for recognizing these outstanding employees and celebrating the everyday heroes who help keep the community safe.
This incident highlights the importance of employee training and preparedness in retail and hospitality environments, where quick responses can prevent minor incidents from escalating into major emergencies. The recognition of these employees serves as a reminder that frontline workers often serve as first responders in unexpected situations, and their actions can have significant impacts on public safety and property protection. For more information about community events in the area, visit https://www.towncenterofmililani.com.
The business implications extend beyond immediate safety concerns, as such incidents can affect insurance costs, business continuity, and community relations for shopping centers and their tenants. By recognizing employee heroism, businesses reinforce positive workplace culture while demonstrating their commitment to community safety standards. This event also underscores how retail and dining establishments serve as community hubs where employees' actions directly impact public welfare beyond their job descriptions.
