Rotary Friendship Across Oceans: Canton, GA Visits Pago Pago

This month, the Rotary Club of Pago Pago welcomed visiting Rotarian David Bruno from the Rotary Club of Canton, Georgia along with Katrina Vilchez. During their brief stay in American Samoa, David exchanged club flags with our president, Raymond Dāvid; a tradition that celebrates Rotary’s global fellowship.

President Ray offered the pair tips for exploring the island, and they made the most of it. David later wrote:

“One day we drove left from the hotel and into the mountains, and another day drove to the right until we could go no farther. Some steep roads, but beautiful views. Saw the large bats in a tree and passed by Starkist. We did find Tisa’s, almost by accident since there are no prominent signs to find it. Son of the owner prepared delicious appetizer plates and Pina coladas for us.”

Katrina, who was born in American Samoa, made sure to gather souvenirs from her birthplace before departing. She also shared a special connection to the territory. Her father helped launch KVZK-TV, American Samoa’s first television channel, back in 1964.

David has since presented the Pago Pago club’s flag to the Rotary Club of Canton, and a photo of the moment appears on their Facebook page.

We’re grateful for their visit and the reminder that Rotary’s spirit of service and friendship knows no borders. If you are a Rotarian who plans to visit American Samoa, let us know! We look forward to meeting you, too.