The Wellington Kiwanis Club celebrated their 50th year of service on June 15, 2006 at the Regent Theatre in Wellington.  Social Hour began the celebration with delicious appetizers and music by David Brody.

The Club was organized in 1956 by the Downtown Wichita and Anthony Clubs.  Seven clubs were present with interclubs.  Congratulations letters were read from Kiwanis Friends and Community Organizations.     

The welcome was given by Past Governor Jim Chisham and Club President Mike Keller.  Mayor Stanley Gilliland gave the greetings to Wellington.  Approximately 80 individuals attended while current Lt. Governor Julia Lambert gave her remarks.   Special entertainment was heard by all when Miss Teen Kansas Lauren Susong sang some very popular musical choices. 

The night was filled with award celebrations as individual members were honored for their Kiwanis dedication and involvement.  Awards were presented by Kansas Foundation President Elect Jacquelin Byers and Past Governor Dick Bills.   Foundation Life Memberships were given to Michael Keller and Richard Lawrence; Putman Award to Robert Long; and Life Memorial Recognitions to Ken Phillips; Berva Phillips, and Doris Barber.  Jacquelin Byers gave a summary report of the current Kansas Foundation happenings and how they support the Kansas District.

Richard Bills, International Foundation Representative and Past Governor presented the club’s 19th Hixson award to add to their Honors Banner to Bobby DeJarnett.   Past Governor Jim Chisham was honored with a five level diamond Hixon with a purple ribbon for his support of programs important to Kiwanis.

Governor John Fajen and Young Children Priority One Chairman Pam Fajen made celebration remarks while Governor John inducted two new Kiwanis Members into the club.   The club is also celebrating the building of a new Aktion Club which should be chartered soon.

Others attending the Gala Birthday Celebration were Governor Elect Max Klamm and his wife Janice; Past Governors Dick Bills and District Secretary Dot Leakey and her husband Don.