BRIDGFORD, VANDERBURG, FUHS '53

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.

November 1, 2007
Fullerton Rotary celebrates 85th year
Members recount colorful history.
Story and photos By Barbara Giasone
The Orange County Register
FULLERTON — 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: two in Fullerton, one each in Placentia, Brea and Yorba Linda.
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.
Current president Tom Meyer wrote in the anniversary program, "With our motto 'Service Above Self,' the Rotary Club of Fullerton's future is very bright indeed."