1953-54-55
1953
On March 9th, Guerdon Allen was chosen as the next club president earlier than normal as directed by Rotary International.
There was a program on baby adoptions that stated that only one couple in ten may be lucky enough to adopt a child in this country.
Nuba Pletcher presented a program on the Japan problem after WWII requiring the US to help rebuild the country after all the destruction.
There was a program and demonstration on the “Art of pistol shooting” presented by State and National Champion- Joe Helling.
There was a combined service meeting at the Elks club. Meal charge was $1.
There was a joint meeting with the Lions Club. Minnesota House Majority leader, Roy Dunn, was the speaker.
A slide picture program was presented on Wurzburg, Germany. The people of Faribault had sent tons of clothing and supplies to aid the war-torn city.
Our club’s 33rd president in 1952-53 was Aaron Lenmark who was still a member in 1970 so Rod knew him.
1954
Our founding president, Frank W. McKellip passed away in early May. He had served our club for 34 years.
The service clubs of Faribault were entertained as guests of Nutting Trucking and Caster Co. on the occasion of opening their new office building.
Our club sponsored the Cannon Falls Club. The charter presentation was on October 27th.
NBA all-star and Minneapolis Lakers George Mikan was a speaker for one club meeting.
There was a program titled “New Telephone Horizons” the new technology that will bring more changes in our way of life.
Our club’s 34th president in 1953-54 was Guerdon Allen who was still a member in 1970 so Rod knew him.
1955
The club celebrated Rotary’s Golden Anniversary with a dinner at the Congregational Parish House and sponsored a concert by the St. Olaf Choir with 1200 in attendance at Faribault High School. The Daily News published a series of articles on the Golden Anniversary and KDHL broadcast “Rotary Golden Theatre” 9:15-9:30 am for 13 weeks.
Seven charter members of the club are still living.
Club members were guests of the Faribault Education Association at Lincoln school for regular school lunch.
Robert Bjorgum joined the club and was a member for 58 years - 1955-2013 when he passed away.
Our club’s 34th president in 1954-55 was Palmer Dragsten owner of KDHL Radio. Palmer served our club from 1947-2006 when he passed away. His 59 years of membership are second only to the honorable Rod Mahler.