PUHI — Several years ago, Elesther Calipjo and Paul Kyno invited Gary and Teresa Stewart to lunch.
The two men were looking for seed money to help get the proposed Kauai Philippine Cultural Center going in the early stages.
The Stewarts listened — and gave a quarter of a million dollars.
They were delighted to do so, said Gary Stewart.
“From our perspective, we’re absolutely thrilled to death to see this vision come to fruition in this spectacular community center,” Gary Stewart said. “This is a piece of history that’s going to be here for the people of Kauai for generations to come.
“We’re just thrilled to be a small part of it,” he added.
The Stewarts were among about 75 people who attended an invitation-only event Saturday afternoon hosted by the center’s board of directors for supporters of the project.
It was an upbeat, festive gathering with lots of smiles, handshakes and plenty of appreciation, and attendees got an update on its progress. Everyone was pleased with what they heard and saw.
“Congratulations and applause to each of you,” said Randy Francisco.
Calipjo, center president, thanked everyone for their help, dedication and commitment. The cultural center, referred to as “A Place for All,” has been a goal for years and the first phase is close to completion, he said.
“It means a lot to the community,” he said. “We are building something that will benefit everyone.”
It has been a collaborative effort, on big and small levels, to get there since the March 2016 groundbreaking. The goal is to have a place in the heart of Kauai “to bring folks together for social, educational and lifestyle services and to celebrate family and friendships.”
The Kauai Philippine Cultural Center has received the backing of the Kauai County Council, the Governor’s Office, the Legislature, and the Filipino Community Center on Oahu.
Gov. David Ige and Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard have visited.
There have been several fundraisers, including a CD titled, “A Place for All,” featuring eight songs produced and composed by Kauai’s Art Umezu. Mayor Bernard Carvalho Jr. is one of the singers.
The state appropriated $1.5 million.
The land was provided by the Kauai County Council in the form of a 99-year lease approved at $1 per year for the 3.5 acre site in Puhi, adjacent to the YMCA pool and Chiefess Kamakahele Middle School.
KPCC is leasing 11 acres of land from Grove Farm for $1 a year for 100 years for a cultural park and garden.
The project is scheduled to be done in two phases.
The first will include 12,725-square-foot building that will house office spaces, a commercial kitchen, and an event hall. A basketball court is part of the plan.
That building, which is rising tall, was the site of Saturday gathering.
The second phase calls for construction of a 11,658-square-foot main hall.
A Legacy Wall will honor donors, with contributions coming from businesses, community groups and individuals. Donations are still welcome.
A major fundraiser is scheduled April 21 at the Kauai Marriott Resort and Beach Club.
Brian Yamase of First Hawaiian Bank liked what he saw Saturday as he viewed the site where construction continues.
“This is a wonderful project,” he said.
David Nagao, association director with Hokuala Kauai, said Puhi was a growing community and liked the location of the Kauai Philippine Cultural Center.
“We’re really excited this is happening,” he said. “It’s definitely a great opportunity to share the culture.”
More than $2 million has been raised toward the construction cost. While contractors and suppliers are doing their best to keep costs down, about $500,000 is needed to complete the first phase.
Eddie Topenio, center board members, said there is still a long ways to go, “but we’re looking forward to completing this center.”
Progress, he said, has been “amazing,” thanks to a hard-working board, volunteers, donors and support of many leaders.
“The community has a lot to do with this,” he said. “It’s going to be used by all.”
Senate President Ron Kouchi said it was wonderful to see the project advancing so well.
“I’m excited for the opportunity it’s going to create for our community to come together in celebration,” he said.
