This is stunning news.  I am sure that Paul Johnson would appreciate a note
of appreciation.  If you'd like to send a note by e-mail, send it
Attention: Paul Johnson to his secretary at [log in to unmask]

If you'd like to send a letter, send it to:
Paul Johnson, Director
Iowa Department of Natural Resouces
Wallace State Office Building
East 9th and Grand Avenue
Des Moines, Iowa 50319


Jane Clark
====================================================================
IOWA DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES
To: All DNR Employees
From:   Paul W. Johnson, Director
Date:   May 3, 2000


I will be leaving you and returning to my family and farm on May 11th.
My reasons for leaving are simple. I have two new grandchildren and, God
willing, will have a third next week. I miss not being with my wife at the
end of each day. I miss the sounds of our farm as it wakes each morning.
These feelings are with me each night when I return to my apartment and
fall
asleep to the loud clicks of the two artificial valves in my heart. Life is

precious. I've told you to take time to be with those you love. I need to
do
the same.
Fifteen months ago Governor Vilsack honored me with the opportunity to
serve
you. I had high hopes. You needed more resources and I thought I could help

you get them. The legislature has now gone home and they have told us we
should be satisfied with the status quo. I am not. You deserve better. Iowa

deserves better. I am sorry that I have disappointed you.
The Department of Natural Resources is a great institution. Among your
ranks
are some of the finest professionals in the nation. You can be proud of
your
work. You have provided Iowans with conservation and environmental
leadership
that is second to none.
Thanks for your friendship during my tenure with you. I feel privileged to
have been with you. And I promise to do all I can to support you as I
resume
my life on our farm.
Sincerely,

Paul W. Johnson

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