The Hawaii Island Portuguese Chamber of Commerce is dusting off old plans to construct a cultural and education center in downtown Hilo.
“It’s picked up momentum,” HIPCC First Vice President Marlene Hapai said of the effort.
Several years ago, lifelong Big Isle resident and former Hawaii County Councilman Frank DeLuz III donated a chunk of his land in Hilo to the chamber with the understanding that the facility be built on the property.
“They always say when you give you receive too,” the 80-year-old said at his home Thursday.
The one-acre lot is located at the intersection of Ponahawai and Komohana streets, just south of the Ka Waena Lapaau medical office. DeLuz described it as a “beautiful piece of property,” overlooking Hilo Bay and valued at around $500,000.
“I told them, ‘I contribute the land and they raise the funds,’” he said. Ultimately, things stalled.
Hapai, who is slated to take over as chamber president in a few months, said the donation was an important and generous first step in making the dream of a cultural center become a reality.
“It’s a very rich culture,” she said of the Portuguese. “I think it’s long overdue that we need to share it in Hawaii.”
With the site secured and now clear of vegetation, Hapai said fundraising efforts will soon be underway. Part of that effort, she said, will be selling the idea to residents of the Big Isle.
“I look at this as a worldwide impact, but also a part special to Hawaii,” she said. “It can be something that people come see from all over the world.”
Established in 1982, HIPCC currently has around 200 members.
DeLuz said that for years chamber meetings were held either at a member’s home, many times his own, or at a rented space. The chamber hopes to see that change sooner than later.
HIPCC’s vision is for a large multi-purpose facility to hold meetings and parties, as well as exhibit the history of the Portuguese people in Hawaii. Plans call for a certified kitchen, office space, exhibits and programs related to Portuguese history, culture and arts, according to the website.
DeLuz said he decided to donate the commercial property because he feels he’s had a successful life and wants to leave something for future generations.
“I’m the oldest timer in the chamber, so I feel if I give something for the future for the kids, knowing that we have a good culture,” he said.
As for raising funds, DeLuz said there is always a way.
For more information about HIPCC, visit www.hipcc.org.
Email Chris D’Angelo at cdangelo @hawaiitribune-herald.com.