[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 34 (Thursday, March 16, 2006)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E388]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                           HONORING DICK KAY

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. RAHM EMANUEL

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, March 16, 2006

  Mr. EMANUEL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the long and 
distinguished career of my friend, Mr. Dick Kay, political editor, and 
host of the news show ``City Desk.'' Mr. Kay wil retire in June, 2006, 
with the honor of having been the longest-serving reporter in the 
history of Chicago's WMAQ-Channel 5 TV.
  With 46 years in the business, Dick Kay has unparalleled political 
experience, knowledge and perspective. He arrived at WMAQ-Channel 5 in 
1968, initially working as a writer/producer but soon switching to 
reporting. He later became their political editor as well as the host 
of ``City Desk,'' the Sunday morning public service program.
  Over the years, Dick Kay has interviewed mayors, governors, 
Congressmen, Senators, and countless other public leaders. Viewers have 
come to rely on his thoughtful yet fearless approach to covering 
politics and public policy.
  Dick Kay's hard work and insightful reporting have been recognized by 
numerous awards over the years. Among others, Dick has received a 
Peabody Award--the highest honor in TV broadcasting--as well as 11 
Emmys, a National Headliner award, and a Jacob Scher award for 
investigative reporting. In 2001, he was inducted into the Television 
Academy's Silver Circle Hall of Fame, which honors those who have made 
major contributions to Chicago broadcasting for 25 years or more.
  In addition to his work as a reporter and editor, Dick was the long-
time president of the local unit of the American Federation of 
Television and Radio Artists. In this capacity, Dick successfully 
persuaded Illinois legislators to ensure that on-air employees had the 
freedom to move to competing stations.
  I am sure Dick's wife, children and grandchildren will be glad to 
enjoy more time with him. The rest of us will miss his hard-hitting 
investigative work, insightful commentary, and engaging Sunday morning 
discussions.
  Mr. Speaker, I wish Dick and his family the best of luck during his 
retirement and throughout his future endeavors. Political reporting in 
Chicago will not be the same without Dick Kay, dean of Chicago 
political reporters.

                          ____________________