Polynesian Cultural Center pioneer: Patoa Benioni

With all the attention recently focused on Cook Islanders currently appearing for six weeks at the Polynesian Cultural Center, it seems fitting that we introduce you to Patoa Benioni. The first Cook Islander at the PCC More than 50 years ago, Patoa — who was born in...

PCC Samoan Fire Knives vs. Batons

Former baton majorette looks at Samoan fire knives A former baton-twirling majorette shared several interesting observations after watching the Polynesian Cultural Center’s recent Samoan World Fireknife Championships in May 2017. Sister Sue Ann Long, 73, is a...
Palusami Recipe of Polynesia

Palusami Recipe of Polynesia

 One of the first truly Polynesian dishes served to me when arriving in La’ie was an amazing little dish Samoans call Palusami. The website Cooking Hawaii defines it as: “A traditional Samoan dish of wrapped bundles of taro leaves with a coconut and onion...

PCC Samoan Culture Ambassador joins media blitz

The Polynesian Cultural Center recently participated in a media blitz on the U.S. East coast that included our Samoan Culture Ambassador Creasepaul Tofa. He is a traditionally raised Samoan who enjoys sharing his heritage with both visitors and urban Samoan students: ...

Best-ever Samoan World Fireknife Championship

Story and images by Mike Foley The Polynesian Cultural Center’s 25th annual Samoan World Fireknife Championship special event from May 11-13, 2017, surpassed all expectations. Following two days of men’s preliminary and semifinal competition, junior and...