Comments on: Polynesian Cultural Center pioneer: Patoa Benioni

By: Nina Jones

Nina Jones — Mon, 30 Dec 2019 19:17:57 +0000

In reply to Abe Singh. Thank you for sharing your memories with us. You might consider joining the "i love byu hawaii & pcc" Facebook page. I seem many people reconnect there. If your friends are not on the page, someone who knows them probably is!

By: Abe Singh

Abe Singh — Tue, 24 Dec 2019 18:27:24 +0000

In 1965 I entered CCH as a freshman, Dr. Cook was our college President, my brother Dennis was serving a mission in the Philippines, David/Daud had graduated and working in Honolulu, Patoa and Junita were living in Laie and attending CCH. I have never forgotten my undergraduate days at CCH and working several jobs at PCC, CCH and in the summer driving a cab in Waikiki. I wish there was a way to connect with my brothers and sisters from the past.

By: Nina Jones

Nina Jones — Tue, 05 Sep 2017 19:06:30 +0000

In reply to Daud Sahim. Thank you for sharing this memory. We are so grateful for wonderful examples such as you and your friends and work mates. BTW, the Fijian Village is now going through a bit of a 'sprucing up'. We are excited to be preserving and supporting the wonderful work of our founding elders. We love the Fijian Village and will be showcasing the progress in a couple of months, so stay tuned!

By: Daud Sahim

Daud Sahim — Tue, 05 Sep 2017 16:32:19 +0000

Thanks for the memories.I came to Laie CCH in 1962.My good friend Dennis Singh and myself assisted in building the Fijian village under the direction of Ratu Isireli Racule who composed the Fijian song Bula laie.During those early days at CCH we particularly knew each other.Patoa was a fun loving person.When he got married to Juanita we used to have dinner at my place.Kudah Hafiz.Daud Sahim

By: Nina Jones

Nina Jones — Tue, 22 Aug 2017 21:28:30 +0000

In reply to craig brandow. What a lovely message, Craig. We join you in sweet memories of Nani and her family. Much respect for your work with your keikis. We will send your best to Patoa and hope that you get to visit us again soon at the PCC.

By: craig brandow

craig brandow — Tue, 22 Aug 2017 21:12:43 +0000

Good afternoon from Pine Hill, New Mexico. I am full Native American, in 1962 i was a young Marine stationed at Kaneohe Marine Air Staion. I married a beautiful Hawaiian Lady named Nani Kamae, Nani and her parents were the first Hawaiian entertainers at PCC. I attended CCH and worked part time during the school year at PCC as a guide. During the summers i worked in construction. I enjoyed Patoa’s happy ways and his talents, especially the drumming.
I lost my wife to cancer in 2009 and continue to work in education helping my people, i just talked to a 4th grade class about being organized. Alot of the young people are neglected and need guidance for the older generation. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to write my message. Craig Brandow