ONCE AGAIN R.J. JOHNSON SEND OUT FAULTY CITY COUNCIL PRESS RELEASE
R.J. Johnson is the Director of Council Affairs for the Shreveport City Council.
His important job duties include placing balloons in the council chamber and placing the nameplates for council members at the horseshoe in the chambers at Government Plaza.
R.J. also sends press releases for his $90,000 plus salary.
R.J. sent out another faulty press release today, set forth below.
The topic is a serious and unfortunate one which does not excuse the misleading and totally incorrect headline and first sentence.
The presser has quotes from four of the seven council members. Evidently R.J. did not contact councilmen Alan Jackson, Jim Taliaferro or Gary Brooks for quotes on the untimely death of Marshal Kriby Dawson.
Thus “the Shreveport city council” did NOT mourn nor is the entire council public saddened by this death. Four of the council members did so,
R.J. has an online masters and doctorate degree. Evidently, he skipped courses in basic English.
I am certain that the missing three councilmen share the sentiments expressed by the other council members in the press release but that does not excuse a headline and initial sentence that would properly read “Council members…”
Shreveport City Council Mourns the Passing of Assistant Chief Deputy Marshal Kirby Dawson
SHREVEPORT, LA – The Shreveport City Council is deeply saddened by the passing of Assistant Chief Deputy Marshal Kirby Dawson, who passed away yesterday.
A dedicated public servant, Dawson’s career reflected professionalism, leadership, and a deep commitment to the people of Shreveport and the Marshal’s Office. He earned the respect of colleagues and the community alike.
“Assistant Chief Deputy Kirby Dawson exemplified what it means to serve with honor and integrity,” said Shreveport City Council Chairwoman Tabatha Taylor. “His leadership and commitment to the people of Shreveport will not be forgotten. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, his colleagues in the Marshal’s Office, and all who had the privilege of working alongside him.”
Public Safety Committee Chairman Grayson Boucher added, “My family and I are praying for peace and comfort for Chief Dawson’s family and his brothers and sisters at the Shreveport City Marshal’s Office. Chief Dawson’s service and dedication to our city is very much appreciated, and his loss will be felt city-wide.”
Vice Chairwoman Ursula Bowman said, “We are deeply saddened by the loss of Assistant Chief Deputy Kirby Dawson. His dedication, leadership, and service to the people of Shreveport reflect the very best of public service. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, the Marshal’s Office, and all who are mourning this tremendous loss.”
Councilman James Green shared, “As we mourn Chief Dawson’s passing, my family and I lift prayers of comfort and peace for his family and his brothers and sisters at the Marshal’s Office. Chief Dawson’s leadership, dedication, and service to our city will be deeply missed, and we ask for strength for all who are grieving this tremendous loss.”
The Shreveport City Council stands united with Chief Dawson’s family, the Shreveport City Marshal’s Office, and all first responders during this difficult time.
Dr. RJ Johnson
Director of Council Affairs
City Council | City of Shreveport
(318) 673-5257 (office)
(318) 540-6367 (cell)
(318) 673-5270 (fax)
RJ.Johnson@shreveportla.gov
John came to Shreveport in January of 1977 when he was transferred to Barksdale AFB.
He’s been active in Shreveport politics since deciding to make Shreveport his home.
John practiced law for 40 years and he now monitors local politics. He regularly attends Shreveport City Council and Caddo Parish Commission meetings.
John is published weekly in The Inquisitor, bi-monthly in The Forum News, and frequently in the Shreveport Times.
He enjoys addressing civic groups on local government issues and elections.