S.C.R. NO. 140 Summary

• Designates October 15, the birthday of Mekia Kealakai, as Royal Hawaiian Troubadours Day in Hawaii.

• Recognizes Mekia Kealakai as a Native Hawaiian musician who rose from poverty and juvenile detention to become an internationally renowned ambassador of Hawaiian culture through his work with Hawaiian string bands.

• Acknowledges Kealakai's collaboration with the C.F. Martin Guitar Company in developing the Martin Dreadnought acoustic guitar, which became one of the most iconic stringed instruments of the modern era, used by artists including Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, the Beatles, and Bob Marley.

• Honors the Royal Hawaiian Troubadour generation of early 20th century musicians who spread Hawaiian string band music globally and influenced the development of modern American popular music.

• Directs certified copies of the resolution be transmitted to the President of the Pūuhonua Society, Chief Executive Officer of Bishop Museum, and Hawaii State Comptroller.