By Léo Azambuja

Waianae singer Kristian Lei

Waianae singer Kristian Lei

Kaua‘i’s Filipino community knows how to plan an event like nobody else.

About 500 people attended the Kaua‘i Philippine Cultural Center fundraising at the Grand Ballroom of the Kaua‘i Marriott Resort and Beach Club May 16.

A lavish dinner buffet and top-notch entertainment by the Youth String Ensemble, dancers, and Waianae singer Kristian Lei, along with musician Pierre Grill and entertainer Shawn Thomsen, contributed to the evening’s success.

The KPCC, “a place for all,” was first envisioned in 2010 by Lesther Calipjo. Soon after, careful and consistent planning and hard work has brought the center closer to become reality. Groundbreaking is expected for later this year.

KPCC will be built next to the YMCA swimming pool in Puhi. It is intended as a place for community events and cultural activities. It will offer community programs and services, exhibits, festivals and educational events.

Visit kauaiphilippineculturalcenter.org for more information.

KPCC President Lesther Calipjo
KPCC President Lesther Calipjo addresses the crowd.
KPCC Board of Governor Scott McFarland
Kristian Lei with Pierre Grill, center, and Shawn Thomsen
Excell dance troupe
KIUC Board Chairman Jan TenBruggencate and wife Carolyn Larson
Kristian Lei and Pierre Grill
Scott McFarland, left, and Dickie Chang
Tommy and Jackie Contrades
Sue Kanoho and Charlie Iona
Jan Kimura
Kristian Lei and Pierre Grill
About 500 people attended the event.
Kristian Lei sings while several Filipino celebrities take the stage.
A standing ovation for an outstanding show.
KIUC Board Director Pat Gegen with wife Marghee Maupin and daughter Olivia Gegen
From left to right, Celeste Rivera, Faith Soto, Wayne Takayama and Darla Domingo
Kaua‘i Coffee President Wayne Katayama and Councilwoman and former Mayor JoAnn Yukimura
State Rep. Derek Kawakami and wife Monica Kawakami
Former Mayor Maryanne Kusaka and Miss Kaua‘i Filipino 2014 Kiana Pigao
From left to right, Arryl Kaneshiro, Gwyn Calipjo, Michelle Emura and Daryl Kaneshiro
Mayor Bernard Carvalho Jr. and wife Regina Carvalho
Randy Francisco
Council Chair Mel Rapozo and wife Patsy Rapozo
PMRF Commanding Officer Capt. Bruce Hay
Kristian Lei’s mother, Liza Yogi

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