The Pacific Whale Foundation will be able to continue its Onsite Coral Reef Naturalist Program at Ulua Beach in Wailea, Maui, due a grant from the state Hawaii Tourism Authority.

The program posts a trained naturalist to teach visitors about the animals spotted at the snorkeling and diving beach, and what they can do to help protect the reef.

Chason Ishii, president of Coldwell Banker Pacific Properties, is the new president of the board of HUGS (Help, Understanding, Group Support), a nonprofit that provides free support services to families of critically ill children.

Other 2009 HUGS officers include Marlene De Costa, vice president; Charles Loomis, Associate General Council of Alexander & Baldwin Inc., vice president; Catha Combs of Wikoff, Combs & Co. LLC, treasurer; and Thomas C. Zimmerman, president of Central Pacific HomeLoans Inc., secretary.