New historical society pres. will carry on

The Newport Beach Historical Society changed leadership this week.

President Gordy Grundy resigned, handing over the post to Bill Finster.

Grudy, who led the organization for about four years, said he was leaving Southern California for extended travels.

“I’m taking off on some adventure,” said Grundy, a Los Angeles-based fine artist who was raised in Newport.

Finster and Grundy have a common historical connection to the society: both of their fathers were past presidents, Grundy said.

Also a Newport native, Finster served on the city’s 2006 centennial committee, which organized events and other commemorations.

He will carry on the society’s oral history project that started under Grundy’s leadership.

Those who want to contribute their historical stories can contact the society via newportbeachhistorical.com.

— Mike Reicher

Twitter: @mreicher