November 8, 2007

Fullerton Rotary celebrates 85th year
Story and photos By BARBARA GIASONE
STAFF WRITER

Verbal and visual memorabilia set the tone for the Rotary Club of Fullerton’s 85th anniversary celebration Oct. 24 at Hope International University.

Speakers reflecting on highlights of the club’s prominence in both local and world affairs included longtime members Allan Bridgford, Dr. Les Christensen, Dr. Bill Lenahan and Jim Vanderburg. Jim Young, who travels the nation with his one-man show, “Paul Harris: Founder of Rotary,” recounted the history and mission of the international organization that now numbers 1.1 million members.

The first Rotary club in Fullerton was founded in fall 1922 by Harry Riley of Anaheim with an initial membership of two dozen men. Today, the club has more than 140 members and has sponsored five additional clubs.

Vanderburg, who has served as a past district governor and director for Rotary International, reminded guests how Fullerton launched the Polio Plus campaign that immunized every child under age 5 in Costa Rica.

A FAMILIAR ROLE: Retired Cal State Fullerton Dean of Fine Arts Jim Young portrays Rotary founder Paul Harris during the Fullerton Rotary anniversary program.

Longtime Rotarians Bill McGarvey Jr., seated, and Warren Wimer chat.

PERFECT ATTENDANCE: In his 47 years of membership in Fullerton Rotary, Lee Myhre, pictured, has logged perfect attendance.

Dr. William and Wilma Peloquin review old pictures and convention bulletins.

ROTARIANS ALL: Jim Kilponen, center, president of Fullerton Sunrise Rotary, is welcomed by Fullerton Rotary members Michael La, left, and Shine Kim.

REMEMBERING THE PAST:
Longtime Rotarians Dr. Les Christensen, Dr. Bill Lenahan, Allan Bridgford and Jim Vanderburg, from left, join Terri Grassi on the podium to reflect on the Rotary Club’s long history in the community.