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SCR 232

RECOGNIZING SEPTEMBER 2ND AS RICHARD "BUFFALO" KEAULANA DAY.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Kurt Fevella and 4 co-sponsors

Designates September 2 as Richard 'Buffalo' Keaulana Day in Hawaii; a ceremonial observance honoring his surf, lifeguard, and cultural legacy with no holiday or fiscal impact.

Referred to TCA.
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Bill Summary · SCR 232

Summary of SCR 232: Richard "Buffalo" Keaulana Day

Purpose and Intent

  • SCR 232 is a concurrent resolution recognizing September 2 each year as Richard "Buffalo" Keaulana Day in the State of Hawaii.
  • The measure emphasizes Keaulana's enduring impact as a legendary surfer, lifeguard, cultural ambassador, and patriarch of Makaha’s “first family.”
  • It clarifies that the recognition is ceremonial and shall not be construed as a state holiday.

Key Provisions

  • Official Recognition: The Senate and House, in concurrence, recognize September 2 of every year as Richard "Buffalo" Keaulana Day.
  • Ceremonial Nature: Reaffirms that the day is a symbolic observance, not a state holiday.
  • Transmission: Requires a certified copy of the concurrent resolution to be transmitted to the Governor.

Background on Richard "Buffalo" Keaulana

  • Born September 2, 1935 in Honolulu; learned to surf as a child in Waikiki.
  • Makaha community figure who rose to prominence as a premier surfer known for a smooth, switch-stance style and “nose for the pocket.”
  • Achievements: Won Makaha International in 1960; repeatedly placed highly (six top-four finishes between 1957 and 1965), contributing to a view of him as one of the world’s best bodysurfers of his era.
  • Lifesaving and leadership: Makaha’s chief lifeguard beginning in 1969 for over two decades; earned the nickname "Mayor of Makaha" and has a statue near the Makaha library.
  • Cultural and maritime contributions: Steered Hokulea on its first Tahiti voyage in 1976; a respected ambassador of aloha and Hawaiian cultural restoration.
  • Legacy: Buffalo’s Big Board Classic surf contest and beach party named in his honor; inducted into the Outrigger Duke Kahanamoku Foundation Hall of Fame (2010); father figure to many West Oahu youth and patriarch of Makaha’s prominent surfing family, with children who achieved high levels in surfing and longboarding.

Affected Parties

  • The State of Hawaii and its residents, particularly communities in West Oahu and Makaha.
  • Advocates of Hawaiian surfing heritage, ocean safety, and cultural restoration.
  • Local schools, cultural organizations, and community events that may reference or celebrate Richard Keaulana’s legacy.

Procedural and Timeline Details

  • Introduced: March 7, 2025.
  • Referenced: March 12, 2025, to the TCA (Transportation, Culture, and Arts) committee.
  • Status: Referred to TCA; awaiting committee consideration.
  • Related Measure: Companion SR 208.

Sponsor and Support

  • Primary Sponsors: Kat KIDANI and GABBARD? (listed as GABBARD), plus McKELVEY and FEVELLA.
  • Co-sponsor: San Buenaventura.
  • These sponsors reflect bipartisan civic recognition of Keaulana’s contributions to surfing, lifeguarding, and Hawaiian culture.

Impact and Implications

  • Largely symbolic and educational, aimed at honoring a prominent Hawaiian cultural figure and surf pioneer.
  • No fiscal impact or statutory changes beyond ceremonial recognition.
  • May influence local commemorations, school curricula, and community events highlighting Hawaiian surfing heritage and ocean safety traditions.

This summary provides a clear, factual overview of SCR 232, its purpose, provisions, and potential effects on Hawaii’s cultural landscape.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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