Miles Nakahara, a wildlife biologist with the state Department of Land and Natural Resources was named the 2007 Outstanding Wildlife Officer of the Year by the Shikar-Safari Club International. He also was recognized for his work as West Hawaii's fire management commander under the DLNR's Division of Forestry and Wildlife.

Suzanne Frazer and Dean Otsuki of Beach Environmental Awareness Campaign Hawaii won the 2008 Living Reef Award in the nongovernmental organization category. Hawaii's Living Reef Program and the Coral Reef Outreach Network co-sponsor the annual awards.

American Savings Bank was named the 2007 Bank of the Year by Maui United Way for its continued support and contributions, including a $71,667 donation last year.

Linda Maeno, an Information Technology Specialist, received the 2008 University of Hawaii West Oahu Chancellor's Award. She provides computing support for the campus faculty, helping members with online or WebCT-enhanced courses by creating online tutorials. Maeno also developed a transition plan for the university's course management system and provided workshops for faculty, staff and students.