Senate Resolution 23

A RESOLUTION COMMENDING AND CONGRATULATING DR. WILLIAM A. MIDDLETON UPON BEING NAMED "FAMILY PHYSICIAN OF THE YEAR" BY THE MISSISSIPPI ACADEMY OF FAMILY PHYSICIANS.

WHEREAS, Dr. William A. Middleton of Winona, Mississippi, was awarded "Family Physician of the Year" by the Mississippi Academy of Family Physicians on July 12, 2006, at the academy's annual meeting in Destin, Florida; and

WHEREAS, the annual award, known as the John B. Howell Memorial Award is the academy's highest honor to a Mississippi physician who exemplifies, in the tradition of family medicine, a compassionate commitment to improving the health and well-being of people and communities throughout Mississippi; and

WHEREAS, Dr. Middleton attended Mississippi College, graduating with distinction, before going on to further his medical studies at Tulane University School of Medicine in New Orleans, Louisiana, where he finished 20th in a class of 130; and

WHEREAS, having opened his practice in Winona in 1955, Dr. Bill, as he is affectionately called by his patients, has served the people of north Mississippi for more than 50 years, delivering thousands of babies and saving countless lives; and

WHEREAS, known for his compassion to help his patients by working long hours and treating every patient crossing his doorstep, Dr. Bill has gone above and beyond the call of duty for his patients, not only as a physician but also as a friend; and

WHEREAS, in addition to providing excellent medical care for his patients, Dr. Bill has also served the medical staff at Tyler Holmes Memorial Hospital as Chief of Staff; and

WHEREAS, as he regularly attends continuing education classes in order to stay abreast of the latest medical advancements, he yet finds the time in his schedule to be a community servant, having served as a member of the Board of Trustees of Winona City Schools, the Board of Directors of the Montgomery County Economic Development Partnership and County Chairman for Governors John Bell Williams and Cliff Finch; and

WHEREAS, it is with great pride that we recognize the contributions of this Mississippi health care professional, Dr. Middleton, who has brought honor to his community and to this state:

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE OF THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI, That we do hereby commend and congratulate Dr. William A. Middleton upon being named "Family Physician of the Year" by the Mississippi Academy of Family Physicians and extend warmest wishes for continued success in all of his future endeavors.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That this resolution be presented to Dr. Middleton and be made available to the members of the Capitol Press Corps.