2002-06-24 Regular Meeting and Workshop Meeting

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e e City of La Porte Administrative Services Department Human Resources Division Interoffice Memorandum June 4, 2002 To: Martha Gillett, City Secretary From: Lorie Doughty, Human Resources Manager Subject: Council Agenda Item, June 24, 2002 Retiree: Rusty Shepherd - 20 Years Please include the following employee retirement presentation on the Agenda for the Council Meeting scheduled for June 24, 2002: Rusty Shepherd - 20 years Russell Shepherd, Jr. grew up in La Porte and has spent his life here serving the citizens of our community. The Shepherd family name of one that is connected with public service. Known as "Rusty" to family, friends, and co-workers, he began his career with the City of La Porte Police Department as a dispatcher on August 14, 1979. He resigned on April 24, 1981 to pursue a college education. However, he missed his heart's calling as the "voice of the La Porte Bayshore area", and returned to the police department on August 12, 1982. Rusty worked his way up through the ranks, achieving the title of Dispatcher II and eventually serving as the Senior Dispatcher in Communications. His friendly voice on the airwaves calmed many an officer as they sought help in emergency situations, and Rusty was always willing to assist the public with their needs. Law enforcement personnel throughout southeast Texas recognized Rusty's voice. Not only did Rusty serve as Dispatcher; he also volunteered as a Reserve Police Officer, During his tenure with the department, Rusty received five commendations for recognition of his work, including a nomination as Officer of the Year. In addition to serving his community as a Dispatcher and Reserve Officer, Rusty also received a certificate as an Emergency Care Attendant and served with the La Porte Ambulance Service and as a firefighter with the La Porte Volunteer Fire Department. Rusty's contributions are also widely known in the local Rotary Club and other groups, and as an organist for his church. Rusty's selfless public service is to be commended and his contributions will be sorely missed, We wish him the best in his retirement. c: Richard Reff, Chief of Police Aaron Corrales, Assistant Police Chief Ron Parker, Lieutenant Carol Buttler, Director of Administrative Services Personnel File