[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 30 (Wednesday, March 2, 2011)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E399]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   HONORING JACK CRISTIL FOR HIS 58 YEAR CAREER AS THE VOICE OF THE 
                       MISSISSIPPI STATE BULLDOGS

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. ALAN NUNNELEE

                             of mississippi

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, March 2, 2011

  Mr. NUNNELEE. Mr. Speaker, today is a memorable night throughout the 
State of Mississippi and indeed throughout the Southeastern Conference, 
when the Mississippi State University Bulldogs tip off in Fayetteville, 
Arkansas. The thing that will make this game memorable is that Jack 
Cristil will not be behind the microphone.
  For the past 58 years, as Mississippi State fans tuned in to listen 
to basketball or football games, they heard the distinctive voice of 
Jack Cristil. However, due to declining health, Mr. Jack called his 
last game over the weekend.
  He began his career in the golden age of radio, and learned to paint 
a picture with words as he recounted the events on the field or court, 
when no other medium was available. The first day on the job, 
Mississippi State Atheletic Director Dudy Noble told him, ``You tell 
that radio audience what the score is and who's got the ball and how 
much time is left and you cut out the bull.''
  Throughout his 58 years, he never veered from that advice. His 
commitment to professionalism and excellence at his craft led him to 
develop a style that all Mississippians, including those from rival 
schools, respected. Long before Fox News, he was fair and balanced, and 
reported the games in that manner.
  His distinct style has influenced several generations of sports fans, 
as they could expect to hear the introduction of a six foot tall 
sophomore (pronounced with its proper three syllables) wearing maroon 
pants, a white jersey with maroon numerals, and maroon headgear. He 
truly was the Voice of the Bulldogs.
  Over the years, he has been recognized by numerous organizations 
including receiving an award named after another famous sportscaster, 
the Ronald Reagan Lifetime Achievement Award from the National 
Association of Sportscasters and Sportswriters. He also was inducted 
into the Mississippi State University Sports Hall of Fame in 2003, 
named Mississippi Sportscaster of the Year 21 times and the recipient 
of the SEC Broadcaster of the Year award in 1988.
  Tonight, the game will go on, and the broadcast will be in capable 
hands, but Mr. Cristil, we will miss you.

                          ____________________