WHEREAS, Mike Wray, an outstanding photographer for the Martinsville Bulletin, who has captured thousands of images of the people, places, and events in Martinsville and Henry County, retired in January 2015 after more than 46 years with the newspaper; and

WHEREAS, Mike Wray began working for the Martinsville Bulletin in 1968, becoming a full-time photographer in 1971; he was known for his almost ubiquitous presence around Martinsville and Henry County, photographing events large and small; and

WHEREAS, during his long career at the Martinsville newspaper, Mike Wray covered almost everything that comprises small town and rural life—high school and community sports, politics and government, social and community events, and the changing economy as established industries closed and new economic forces emerged; and

WHEREAS, Mike Wray's photographs for news, features, and sports articles displayed his uncanny eye for memorable images that themselves told a story; he also got to know many residents of the area as he photographed events throughout the region; and

WHEREAS, for Mike Wray, the biggest change he faced in his career was the switch from film photography and darkrooms to digital images, and even though he has taken thousands of images over the years, he does not have a favorite, insisting that the next photograph will always be his top choice; and

WHEREAS, as part of his adherence to high professional standards, Mike Wray readily responded at all hours to breaking news events; the work, while demanding at times, was full of rewards, especially the teamwork he enjoyed with fellow members of the newspaper staff; and

WHEREAS, Mike Wray retired at the same time as his wife, Ginny, who was editor of the Martinsville Bulletin; they both were leaders in the community for their unassuming but strong dedication to reporting and photographing the news in Martinsville and Henry County; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED by the House of Delegates, the Senate concurring, That the General Assembly hereby commend Mike Wray on the occasion of his retirement and for being an outstanding photographer for the Martinsville Bulletin, who captured thousands of images of the people, places, and events in Martinsville and Henry County; and, be it

RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the House of Delegates prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to Mike Wray as an expression of the General Assembly's respect and admiration for his dedication to his community and his many accomplishments as he documented in photographs the people and places of Martinsville and Henry County.