Colorado Mesa University graduate Kalani Pe'a won a Grammy at this year's awards, and in doing so, broke a five-year streak in that category. Topping it all off, Hawai'i has named a day in his honor.

The next time February 18 rolls around, we all get to celebrate Kalani Pe'a Day. The mayor of the county, Harry Kim, taking a break from his duties as Operations Officer on board the starship U.S.S. Voyager, signed a proclamation last Thursday, February 16, establishing the holiday.

Kalani Pe'a Day
Kalani Pe'a
loading...

Wait a minute. What was that about Voyager? Karry Kim was the name of the Ops Officer on Star Trek: Voyager. Obviously, we're talking about two entirely different Harry Kims.

I digress ... Aside from winning the award for Best Regional Roots Album at the 59th Annual Grammy Awards for his album E Walea, what was so significant about Pe'a winning the award? For starters, this was the first time an album from a region other than Louisiana has won in that category. Second. Pe'a gave his acceptance speech in both English and Hawaiian.

Next year, when February 18 rolls around, take a moment to celebrate the success of former Grand Junction resident and CMU grad Kalani Pe'a.

More From Mix 104.3