HR1165 94TH GENERAL ASSEMBLY

HR1165 LRB094 20232 HSS 58133 r

HOUSE RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, This Illinois House of Representatives has learned that veteran television newsman Dick Kay has announced his plans to retire from WMAQ-TV after a 46-year career in broadcasting; and

WHEREAS, This legendary career began where so many other good Illinois activities occur - in Peoria, Illinois; and

WHEREAS, As a native of Delrose, Tennessee, Dick Kay made a stop in Green Bay before settling in at Chicago's NBC affiliate in 1968, and as a first assignment, he was sent as a writer/producer to cover a gathering of national Democratic Party leaders on the city's Southwest Side; and

WHEREAS, During his distinguished career, he was the recipient of 11 Emmys, the Jacob Scher Award, the National Headliner Award, and honors from the Associated Press Chicago Headline Club, the Society of Professional Journalists, and the Joint Civic Committee of Italian Americans; and

WHEREAS, Dick Kay's academic career was highlighted by being named a Distinguished Alumnus by Bradley University, but included dropping out of high school and earning a GED certificate while serving in the U.S. Navy; and

WHEREAS, Many members of the legislature and the other branches of State government enjoyed being part of Dick Kay's long running "City Desk" to discuss public issues and politics; and

WHEREAS, Dick Kay may be best remembered by lawmakers for his examination of the study commissions, the elimination of more than two dozen panels, and the awarding of the prestigious George Foster Peabody Medallion, the highest national broadcasting award in 1985; and

WHEREAS, Dick Kay's career has also included extensive service as the president of the American Federation of Television Artists and at least one legislative battle that led to an outlawing of non-compete clauses in talent contracts over a gubernatorial veto; and

WHEREAS, Dick Kay, who answers to the nickname "Doogie" and found time to develop a number of hobbies, including a passion for sailing, now insists he wants to stop and smell roses; so taking him at his word; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE NINETY-FOURTH GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that Dick Kay be saluted for his distinguished career and for his efforts to help the people of Illinois become better informed about public policy and the role of government in our lives; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a suitable copy of this resolution be presented to him as an expression of our respect and esteem.