_____________ resolution NO. _____________

INTRODUCED BY _________________________________________________

By Request of the ****

A resolution of the Senate of the state of montana honoring the life and work of Charles S. johnson.

WHEREAS, Charles S. Johnson was born in Montana and dedicated his life to observing, documenting, and explaining the state and its people; and

WHEREAS, while the name Charles S. Johnson graced newspaper bylines in the state for nearly half a century over the most important of stories, the dean of Montana journalism always introduced himself as simply, Chuck; and

WHEREAS, one of Chuck's first reporting assignments was covering the 1972 Constitutional Convention where he could not believe his good fortune to have a front row seat to history in the making; and

WHEREAS, his experience with the building of the state constitution became the cornerstone of Chuck's career as the state's longest-serving statehouse reporter; and

WHEREAS, despite his stature and intellect, Chuck never thought he was more important or interesting than anyone he covered. He treated those he encountered with respect and curiosity, be it a U.S. Senator, a governor, or a committee secretary; and

WHEREAS, Chuck's grin and gentle demeanor made him approachable to generations of young journalists who quickly learned that he was generous with his time and knowledge, not just for a minute, but for a lifetime. He continued to be a mentor, friend, and cheerleader for them until his last day; and

WHEREAS, Chuck saw each day as an opportunity to learn. Most of us eschew change, but Chuck treated life as a developing story. Ink ran in his veins, yet he embraced the opportunity to tell stories in any medium-he found his way into radio, television and was tweeting gems until the end; and

WHEREAS, those who were interviewed by Charles S. Johnson could expect him to offer the benefit of the doubt and exercise fairness, but his loyalty was always anchored to the truth; and

WHEREAS, Chuck would note that we buried the lede: He was the best of Montana in all respects. He is missed and remembered.

Now, therefore, be it resolved by the Senate OF THE STATE OF MONTANA:

That Montanans remember Chuck Johnson as a man of integrity, a student of history who sought knowledge daily, and a fearless reporter who pursued truth, justice, and accuracy in the service of the state he loved.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Montana Legislature is encouraged to commemorate the life of Charles S. Johnson on the capitol grounds where he spent many days and nights finding and telling stories that no one would otherwise know.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Secretary of State send a copy of this resolution to each member of the Montana Congressional Delegation, the Governor, and the presidents of the University of Montana and Montana State University, both of which awarded degrees to Charles S. Johnson.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Secretary of State also send a copy of this resolution to every news outlet in the state, including newspapers, radio stations, television stations, and online publications, as a reminder for journalists to practice the craft the way Charles S. Johnson did: honestly, humbly, and tirelessly to the end.