Small Town News

Sidney Kiwanis Club honors man for 50 years of service

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It was 50 years ago today that J. Harry Johnson became a member of the Sidney Kiwanis Club.

Johnson was presented with a Legion of Honor Award as well as a lifetime membership for his longtime service during the club's installation banquet Sunday

Montana Kiwanis District Gov.-elect Glen Wheeler, who attended the meeting, said, "I've just been introduced to a great Kiwanian, and it was my pleasure to witness this."

Johnson remembers then superintendent of schools Harry Mikelson bringing him to Kiwanis in 1959.

"I enjoyed it," Johnson said. "It was a good way to get acquainted with people and make good friends."

A difference that he recalls about earlier meetings was that some were held in the basement of the Lalonde Hotel. Members joined in songs played by pianist Milt Anderson.

The club's traditional annual apple sale also was held on a different format. Instead of phone calls, Kiwanis members would park a pickup at a downtown bank and try to sell boxes at that location. They would even sell single apples for 50 cents.

"I remember standing on the street selling an apple at a time," Johnson said. "We would sell quite a few that way"

He also recalls a group of Sidney members making a road trip to Poplar. They walked the streets and attempted to encourage people to form a Kiwanis club in that community.

"We got enough to form a club but it didn't last," Johnson said.

Inter-club meetings were held every month with members visiting Kiwanians in Glendive, Glasgow or Regi-na.

He likes the current club meetings, especially the programs. "I enjoy the camaraderie, and programs are tremendous. We learn a lot from the speakers."

Johnson stays active by moving the Kiwanis banners, microphone and other items with the help of Jerry Redlin and Jacque Best prior to and after each meeting.

During apple sales, which are currently taking place, Johnson has few peers. During the 2007 sale, he sold 103 boxes through phone calls.

"I made 500 calls," he said. "It wasn't that many people, but there are always repeat calls. It takes a lot of time to sell apples."

He's also a fixture during the club's pie social each summer. He usually cuts or serves the large variety of pies.

"It depends on the amount of ladies who are there and then they take the job from me," Johnson jokes. "I think they feel they can do it neater, and they are probably right."

He is proud of the interest family members have taken in Kiwanis. Sons Randy and Scott have served as president for the Sidney Kiwanis Club. Son Craig served as president in Fargo, N.D. J. Harry's granddaughter Britney is a member of the Sidney High School Key Club, a part of Ki wanis.

"They all seem to enjoy Kiwanis" Johnson said.

He noted he never expected to be a member for 50 years, but he isn't done volunteering yet.

"I had no idea I would be a member that long," Johnson said. "I'm working on the next 50."



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© 2009 Sidney Herald Sidney, Montana. All Rights Reserved. This content, including derivations, may not be stored or distributed in any manner, disseminated, published, broadcast, rewritten or reproduced without express, written consent from DAS.

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