HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES	H.R. NO.	215
TWENTY-SEVENTH LEGISLATURE, 2013
STATE OF HAWAII

HOUSE RESOLUTION

Honoring the Makaha Sons for their contributions to Hawaiian music and culture.

WHEREAS, the State of Hawaii is especially proud to recognize the acclaimed and talented musical artists who have delighted audiences with their moving rhythm and enduring sounds of traditional Hawaiian music that they have been diligently perpetuating throughout our State and the world; and

     WHEREAS, the MAKAHA SONS is one of Hawaii's most renowned and distinguished Hawaiian musical groups; having reorganized several times over the years, it has been entertaining fans since 1976; and

     WHEREAS, John Kapualani Koko, Louis R. "Moon" Kauakahi, and Jerome Kaleolani Koko, originally from Nanakuli, have won the hearts of fans from around the world with their dazzling harmonies and vocal arrangements; and

     WHEREAS, Jerome Kaleolani Koko began entertaining at a very young age and was given the nickname, "Boogie", since he was often dancing and singing as well as imitating Elvis Presley; and

     WHEREAS, past group members include the talented Jerry Koko, Israel Kamakawiwoole, Skippy Kamakawiwoole, Louis Kauakahi, Abraham Nahulu, Melvin Amina, and Sam Gray; and

     WHEREAS, the superb accomplishments and impressive performances of the MAKAHA SONS have allowed them to share their vibrant sounds and delightful stage presence with supporters for over 30 years; and

     WHEREAS, in addition to appearing in movies and on talk shows, the MAKAHA SONS have traveled from Hawaii to Washington D.C., as well as to Carnegie Hall, and have earned the privilege and honor of playing for both the President and Vice-President of the United States; and

     WHEREAS, their undying efforts in perpetuating the Hawaiian culture through music have resulted in numerous proclamations and awards for the MAKAHA SONS, including countless "Na Hoku Hanohano Awards"; and

     WHEREAS, with their enthusiasm and dedication to keeping the culture and legacy of Hawaiian music alive for future generations, the MAKAHA SONS have formed the Makaha Sons Foundation; and

     WHEREAS, the Makaha Sons Foundation presents scholarships each year to a deserving high school graduating senior and generously contributes to a variety of organizations; now, therefore,

     BE IT RESOLVED by the House of Representatives of the Twenty-seventh Legislature of the State of Hawaii, Regular Session of 2013, that this body hereby honors the MAKAHA SONS for their contributions to Hawaiian music and culture, thanks the individual group members for sharing their musical talents, and extends to them its warmest aloha and best wishes for continued success in all future endeavors.

OFFERED BY:

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Report Title: 

Honoring the Makaha Sons