|
|
Jim Johnson is Midsummer parade Grand MarshallNorth Branch native James ìJimmyî Johnson will lead off the 2002 Midsummer parade Sunday as Grand Marshall. Heíll be riding in a convertible with his wife, Vonnie, and a host of children, at least, thatís what heíd like. Johnson and children have been a good combination over the years, and neighborhood children have benefitted from his attention as much as heís enjoyed sharing his time with them. Many long-time residents will remember Johnson as the owner of Jimís Shoe and Clothing, a Main Street store he owned and operated for 30 years. Johnson was a past post commander of American Legion Post #85 and has served in the Honor Guard as bugler and rifleman for 55 years. His bugling prowess earns him the honor of playing taps at the funerals of many area veterans. Johnson was a Boy Scout master and assistant for 13 years of a Legion-sponsored troop. He also founded and led the Boy Scout Drum and Bugle Corps for seven years. A highlight of this activity was the trip to Winnipeg, Canada in 1966 when the drum and bugle corp played during half-time for some of the sporting events of the Pan American Olympic Games. A civic-minded member of the North Branch community, Johnson served on the city council for eight years, the city planning commission for eight years and was a volunteer fireman for 10 years. He served four years as trustee of Trinity Lutheran and was a member of the North Branch Golf Club board also. Golf has been a significant part of his life. Living so close to the North Branch Golf Course (they live on Maple Street), Johnson has spent an hour or two there. Even today, he and Vonnie try to get out golfing every day. Johnson is looking forward to riding in the parade and seeing the many people along the route. He seems a little nervous about it, though, so be sure to give him a big wave and a ìHi, Jim,î when he passes by Sunday. The parade starts at 2 p.m. ©ECM Post Review |