Family and friends who contributed to Scott Spicola's Memorial Fund presented a $10,000 check to AccesSurf Hawaii to support the organization's therapeutic ocean programs for children and adults with disabilities. Spicola had a passion for the ocean and died in 2006.

The Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Foundation donated $10,000 to Hale Makua residents and Kahului Rotary Club members for participating in a Weinberg Friends 2008 Project. The beautification project involved the installation of a drip irrigation system, and filling more than 100 planters with flowers, foliage, and herbs.

The Genographic Legacy Fund donated $25,000 to Hawaii Maoli, which is dedicated to preserving Hawaiian culture and traditions. The GLF is a partnership of National Geographic, IBM and the Waitt Family Foundation, working in support of the Genographic Project on behalf of indigenous groups. The donation is for the Ha'ina 'la Mai Ana Ka Puana project to assist five Hawaiian Civic clubs with the restoration and maintenance of historic sites and properties.

Alexandre Harrison Buck earned the rank of Eagle Scout in October at the Aiea United Methodist Church.