In recognition of the 50th anniversary of the Morrison Scholastic Tournament, Fullerton School District Trustee Hilda Sugarman, a long-time supporter of chess activities, recognized Dewain Barber on behalf of the school board. For the last 35 years, Barber has single-handedly organized and financed the tournament, a huge contribution to chess in North Orange County. Sugarman also noted that FSD and the Fullerton Lions have co-sponsored this event for the past 15 years and recognized Pete Baron for his contributions and support. Barber’s efforts were in honor of the tournament’s founder, Bernard Morrison of Stanton, whose vision brought forth this chess event in 1974.

The 50th Annual Morrison Scholastic Chess Tournament was held on Saturday, February 10, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Ladera Vista Junior High School in Fullerton. The Fullerton Lions Club organized the event, which was co-sponsored by the Fullerton School District.

The bleachers were 100% filled with parents and supporters, while a dedicated volunteer team of over 14 individuals took on roles such as monitors and fulfilled other essential tasks throughout the day. Leading the event were this year’s organizer, Marisol Terrazas, and Tournament Director, Lewis Gerbl.

The tournament’s success can be attributed to extensive preparation, volunteer training, and support from friends of the tournament. Ten students from Fullerton did well in their respective grade tournaments:

First Place Trophies

Arborland Montessori

–Kaylie Yao, 1st grade

Covenant Christian Academy

–Harvey Sim, 2nd grade

Golden Hill

–Eamon Pirraglia, 4th grade

Parks Jr. High

–Elijah Kim, 7th grade

Second Place

Arborland Montessori

• –Rayan Shah, 2nd grade
• –Wyatt McLean, 2nd grade
• –Sophia Kim, 2nd grade

Parks Jr. High

–Aaruv Biyani, 8th grade

Third Place

Arborland Montessori

–Evelyn Leo Eo, 2nd grade

Laguna Road

–Elin Eo, 4th grade

The next tournament: The 17th Fullerton City Scholastic Chess Championship Tournament will be held at Ladera Vista Jr High, 1700 E Wilshire Ave., Fullerton.

To register, visit forms.gle/rbQCjq8EkRTjVkWU8

For questions, call (714) 875-3847