House Resolution 31

A RESOLUTION COMMENDING AND CONGRATULATING MR. TERRY SMITH UPON HIS RECENT ELECTION TO THE NATIONAL ACADEMY OF TELEVISION ARTS AND SCIENCES SOUTHEAST CHAPTER SILVER CIRCLE.

WHEREAS, Terry Smith, a native of Chattanooga, Tennessee, who began his first job in broadcasting at the age of 16 when he sold advertising for a 1,000 watt radio station, recently has been elected to the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences Southeast Chapter Silver Circle; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Smith, who resides in Tupelo, Mississippi, with his wife, Beth, worked at radio stations in Murfreesboro and Nashville, Tennessee, until he earned his degree from Middle Tennessee State University in 1978, and in that same year landed his first job in television news in Chattanooga when he was hired by WTVC as a reporter/anchor; and

WHEREAS, since joining WTVA in Tupelo as a reporter/anchor in 1983, his passion for reporting and diligence in providing the most accurate and up-to-date news eventually allowed him to scale the success ladder to add news director's duties, and today as the newsroom's managing editor, Mr. Smith provides guidance to reporters on their stories; and

WHEREAS, in addition to his administrative and supervisory duties, he also anchors WTVA News at Five and hosts the weekly public affairs show, Focus, and during the height of his tenure, Mr. Smith was part of one of the longest-running anchor teams in the country, with his newscasts having consistently been among the most watched in the market; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Smith has been actively involved in the community, working with numerous organizations including Pinevale Children's Home, Big Brothers/Big Sisters, the American Red Cross, the United Way of Northeast Mississippi and having a recurring appearance on the annual Regional Rehabilitation Center Telethon; and

WHEREAS, the Silver Circle is a society of honor of the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences Southeast, which since 1989, has annually conducted its induction ceremony recognizing television professionals who have worked 25 years or more in the industry in a performing, creative, technical or administrative position; and

WHEREAS, the Silver Circle has made significant contributions to the southern regional market with contributions extending beyond professional excellence and commitment to their craft, giving back to the community as mentors, educators and volunteers; and

WHEREAS, it is with great pride that we recognize the merit, esteem and dedicated service of such a zealous individual as Mr. Smith, whose career as a news anchor, reporter and editor has spanned the course of several decades as a reliable and trusted source, and is equally comparable to his service as a benefactor and humanitarian to his local community:

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI, That we do hereby commend and congratulate Mr. Terry Smith upon his recent election to the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences Southeast Chapter Silver Circle and extend best wishes for continued success in all of his future endeavors.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be furnished to Mr. Smith and to the members of the Capitol Press Corps.