Donʻt Poke the Bear
A late night, a crowded courtyard, and an unexpected poke stopped everything. What a 92-year-old grandmother whispered next—followed by a raised cane and contagious laughter—left a lesson that stayed long after the night ended.
A late night, a crowded courtyard, and an unexpected poke stopped everything. What a 92-year-old grandmother whispered next—followed by a raised cane and contagious laughter—left a lesson that stayed long after the night ended.
A shy little girl. A tangled headband. One quiet moment that changed everything. What happened next—without a shared language—left everyone smiling, and revealed a simple truth about kindness you won’t expect.
In the early 1960s as a missionary in Sāmata, Savai‘i, I once joined a high chief for breakfast, served *sua pusi*—moray eel cooked in coconut milk. A guest refused to eat, noting that not even flies would land on it. Later that day, a truckload of villagers was rushed to the hospital with food poisoning from that same eel. My companion and I, protected by the Lord’s promise, felt no sickness at all. I’ve never eaten eel again.
Early mornings at the Polynesian Cultural Center are my favorite times of the day.
It truly is a privilege to be associated with this very special place, and although I am unworthy, I am truly grateful to be able to be a small part of it each and every day.
In the early 1960s as a missionary in Sāmata, Savai‘i, I once joined a high chief for breakfast, served *sua pusi*—moray eel cooked in coconut milk. A guest refused to eat, noting that not even flies would land on it. Later that day, a truckload of villagers was rushed to the hospital with food poisoning from that same eel. My companion and I, protected by the Lord’s promise, felt no sickness at all. I’ve never eaten eel again.
At just 14, Derek Kalima Foley was hustling behind the scenes at the Polynesian Cultural Center — from steaming dish pits with his Kahuku High buddies to sprinting down theater steps with trays of Pineapple Deelites. Discover how this local Laie boy turned hard work into unforgettable memories during the PCC’s busiest years in the 1990s.
Still climbing 50-foot coconut trees in his 50s, Kap Te’o-Tafiti is more than just muscle and charm. A beloved ambassador of the Polynesian Cultural Center, Kap is a witty teacher of Sāmoan culture, a dedicated vegetarian, and a talented artist. Learn the surprising and inspiring story behind one of PCC’s most iconic cultural figures.
Culinary Services Vice President Greg Maples shared two miracles the occurred in his area in 2022.