Bill > SB655

This bill designates September 2nd of each year as "Richard 'Buffalo' Keaulana Day" to honor an iconic Hawaiian surfer, lifeguard, and cultural ambassador. The bill provides extensive background on Keaulana's significant contributions to surfing and community life, highlighting his achievements such as winning the Makaha International contest multiple times, serving as Makaha's chief lifeguard for over two decades, and being a key figure in Hawaiian ocean culture. While the day will be officially recognized, it is explicitly not a state holiday. Keaulana, known for his surfing skills, leadership in the Makaha community, and involvement in cultural preservation efforts like the Hokulea voyaging canoe expedition, is celebrated for his role in promoting Hawaiian heritage and water sports. The bill recognizes his legacy as a world-class surfer, lifesaver, and patriarch of a renowned surfing family, with his children Brian and Rusty also becoming notable figures in the surfing world. By establishing this commemorative day, the legislature aims to perpetuate Keaulana's memory and honor his substantial contributions to Hawaiian culture and community.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=655&year=2026