MISSISSIPPI LEGISLATURE 2025 Regular Session To: Rules By: Senator(s) Sparks, Thomas, Barnett, Barrett, Berry, Blackwell, Boyd, Bryan, Carter, Chassaniol, DeLano, England, Fillingane, Harkins, Hill, Hopson, Johnson, Kirby, Ladner, McCaughn, McLendon, McMahan, Michel, Parker, Polk, Rhodes, Robinson, Seymour, Suber, Thompson, Whaley, Wiggins, Williams, Younger Senate Concurrent Resolution 544 (As Adopted by Senate) A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION EXTENDING THE CONDOLENCES OF THE MISSISSIPPI SENATE TO THE SURVIVING FAMILY AND FRIENDS OF TALK RADIO ICON PAUL GALLO AND PAYING TRIBUTE TO HIS CAREER AND PUBLIC CONTRIBUTIONS. WHEREAS, Mississippi lost one of its most iconic voices and passionate champions with the passing of Paul Gallo on January 19, 2025. For over five decades, Paul didn't just talk about Mississippi, he helped shape its story. From his first day behind a microphone on February 12, 1968, to his final broadcast in September 2024, Paul dedicated his life to his listeners, his state, and the pursuit of truth; and WHEREAS, dubbed the "Godfather" of talk radio in Mississippi, Paul Gallo was born on February 12, 1947, and raised on his family farm in the Mississippi Delta; and WHEREAS, Paul's journey into radio began on his 21st birthday when he stepped into the studio for the first time, receiving the gift of a career that would define his life and leave a mark on Mississippi. From DJ to Program Director, from sales and management to ownership, Paul mastered every facet of the industry. His name became synonymous with excellence in Mississippi media, most notably as the host of The Gallo Radio Show; and WHEREAS, when Paul joined the SuperTalk family in January 1990, he helped bring Steve Davenport's vision of a statewide talk network to life. What began as a single station grew into a powerhouse network, amplifying Mississippi's stories and voices to millions across the state and beyond via radio, SuperTalk TV, and digital platforms; and WHEREAS, to Paul, radio wasn't just a career, it was a calling. His favorite part of the job, as he often said, was "our audience family." His listeners weren't just numbers, they were the pulse of everything he did. He made everyone feel like they were sitting across the table from an old friend, drawn in by his voice and captivated by his unwavering passion for Mississippi; and WHEREAS, Paul loved Mississippi deeply. It wasn't just the backdrop to his career, it was his purpose. He believed in its potential, celebrated its successes, and never shied away from addressing its challenges. Whether shining a light on political issues or spotlighting the human stories that defined the Magnolia State, Paul used his platform to move Mississippi forward; and WHEREAS, what truly set Paul apart was his gift for storytelling. He didn't just report the news, he brought it to life. With humor, heart, and an uncanny ability to weave complex issues into relatable narratives, Paul could make listeners laugh, make them mad, and make them think, but more importantly, he made them care. Through his stories, he painted a vivid picture of Mississippi's soulthe good, the bad, and the extraordinary. His storytelling wasn't just entertaining, it was a masterclass in connection; and WHEREAS, Paul's impact on Mississippi politics was unparalleled. From his desk in the studio, he became a true force for change, holding leaders accountable and broadcasting the voices of Mississippians who wanted to be heard. He played a pivotal role in shaping debates and policy, challenging political figures, and giving context to the most critical issues of the day. His ability to break down complex topics with clarity, wit, and passion earned him a reputation as a trusted voice of reason; and WHEREAS, over the years, Paul's guest list read like a "who's who" of Mississippi and national newsmakers, from governors to U.S. Senators, and everyone in between. His reach even extended to the White House during pivotal moments in history. Yet despite the high-profile interviews and national attention, Paul's focus always remained on Mississippi - its people, its progress, and its future; and WHEREAS, off the air, Paul was a true nature lover who would often sit on his back porch with family and friends to watch and listen to birds serenade them. He was well-traveled, an avid reader, and a passionate fan of the St. Louis Cardinals. Despite moving away from the Delta as a young adult, Paul stayed true to his roots and often returned there to fish and hunt with his children and grandchildren. While "Gallo" may have been his most recognizable title, his favorite was "Noonoo" to his six grandchildren and three great-grandchildren; and WHEREAS, one of the things Paul was most proud of during the latter part of his career was telling the stories of children in need and helping those children find homes. He diligently helped to raise nearly $3 Million for the Palmer Home for Children during SuperTalk Mississippi Media's Annual Radiothon; and WHEREAS, throughout his life, Paul was recognized with many awards, including being selected three times to the Mississippi Top 50. In the days and weeks following his passing, Paul was honored and remembered by local, state, and national leaders. His memory was even celebrated on the floor of the U.S. Senate, and he was praised for his exceptional career of informing the public and commended for the impact that his voice had on the Magnolia State; and WHEREAS, Paul is survived by his beloved wife of 55 years, Patsy; his children, Mark Galtelli (Susan) and Jennifer Campbell (Jason); his grandchildren, Sarah Dearman (TJ), Grace Galtelli, Katelynn Wallace (Austin), Chandler Bowman (Taylor), Kylie Campbell, and McKinley Campbell; and his great-grandchildren, Della Dearman, Fletcher Wallace, and Leddy Dearman. He is also survived by his brother, David Galtelli (Sandy); his sisters, Ann Brooks (Winston) and Maria Wolf; his brothers-in-law, Eddie Brooks (Julie), David Brooks (Pat), Ricky Brooks (Tena), and Jerry Thompson; his sisters-in-law, Susan O'Briant (Ronnie), Sandra Serio (Dean), Deborah Rybolt (Donald), and Cathy Ramsay (Joe); along with his SuperTalk family and the countless lives he touched through the airwaves; and WHEREAS, Paul Gallo's voice may be silent, but his stories, his legacy, and his vision will forever echo across the state he loved so dearly: NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE OF THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI, THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES CONCURRING THEREIN, That we do hereby extend the condolences of the Mississippi Senate to the surviving family and friends of talk radio icon Paul Gallo and pay tribute to his career and public contributions, and cherish fondly the memory of this most public-spirited citizen of Mississippi. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That this resolution be presented to the family and friends of Paul Gallo and made available to the Capitol Press Corps.
MISSISSIPPI LEGISLATURE
2025 Regular Session
To: Rules
By: Senator(s) Sparks, Thomas, Barnett, Barrett, Berry, Blackwell, Boyd, Bryan, Carter, Chassaniol, DeLano, England, Fillingane, Harkins, Hill, Hopson, Johnson, Kirby, Ladner, McCaughn, McLendon, McMahan, Michel, Parker, Polk, Rhodes, Robinson, Seymour, Suber, Thompson, Whaley, Wiggins, Williams, Younger
# Senate Concurrent Resolution 544
## (As Adopted by Senate)
A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION EXTENDING THE CONDOLENCES OF THE MISSISSIPPI SENATE TO THE SURVIVING FAMILY AND FRIENDS OF TALK RADIO ICON PAUL GALLO AND PAYING TRIBUTE TO HIS CAREER AND PUBLIC CONTRIBUTIONS.
WHEREAS, Mississippi lost one of its most iconic voices and passionate champions with the passing of Paul Gallo on January 19, 2025. For over five decades, Paul didn't just talk about Mississippi, he helped shape its story. From his first day behind a microphone on February 12, 1968, to his final broadcast in September 2024, Paul dedicated his life to his listeners, his state, and the pursuit of truth; and
WHEREAS, dubbed the "Godfather" of talk radio in Mississippi, Paul Gallo was born on February 12, 1947, and raised on his family farm in the Mississippi Delta; and
WHEREAS, Paul's journey into radio began on his 21st birthday when he stepped into the studio for the first time, receiving the gift of a career that would define his life and leave a mark on Mississippi. From DJ to Program Director, from sales and management to ownership, Paul mastered every facet of the industry. His name became synonymous with excellence in Mississippi media, most notably as the host of The Gallo Radio Show; and
WHEREAS, when Paul joined the SuperTalk family in January 1990, he helped bring Steve Davenport's vision of a statewide talk network to life. What began as a single station grew into a powerhouse network, amplifying Mississippi's stories and voices to millions across the state and beyond via radio, SuperTalk TV, and digital platforms; and
WHEREAS, to Paul, radio wasn't just a career, it was a calling. His favorite part of the job, as he often said, was "our audience family." His listeners weren't just numbers, they were the pulse of everything he did. He made everyone feel like they were sitting across the table from an old friend, drawn in by his voice and captivated by his unwavering passion for Mississippi; and
WHEREAS, Paul loved Mississippi deeply. It wasn't just the backdrop to his career, it was his purpose. He believed in its potential, celebrated its successes, and never shied away from addressing its challenges. Whether shining a light on political issues or spotlighting the human stories that defined the Magnolia State, Paul used his platform to move Mississippi forward; and
WHEREAS, what truly set Paul apart was his gift for storytelling. He didn't just report the news, he brought it to life. With humor, heart, and an uncanny ability to weave complex issues into relatable narratives, Paul could make listeners laugh, make them mad, and make them think, but more importantly, he made them care. Through his stories, he painted a vivid picture of Mississippi's soulthe good, the bad, and the extraordinary. His storytelling wasn't just entertaining, it was a masterclass in connection; and
WHEREAS, Paul's impact on Mississippi politics was unparalleled. From his desk in the studio, he became a true force for change, holding leaders accountable and broadcasting the voices of Mississippians who wanted to be heard. He played a pivotal role in shaping debates and policy, challenging political figures, and giving context to the most critical issues of the day. His ability to break down complex topics with clarity, wit, and passion earned him a reputation as a trusted voice of reason; and
WHEREAS, over the years, Paul's guest list read like a "who's who" of Mississippi and national newsmakers, from governors to U.S. Senators, and everyone in between. His reach even extended to the White House during pivotal moments in history. Yet despite the high-profile interviews and national attention, Paul's focus always remained on Mississippi - its people, its progress, and its future; and
WHEREAS, off the air, Paul was a true nature lover who would often sit on his back porch with family and friends to watch and listen to birds serenade them. He was well-traveled, an avid reader, and a passionate fan of the St. Louis Cardinals. Despite moving away from the Delta as a young adult, Paul stayed true to his roots and often returned there to fish and hunt with his children and grandchildren. While "Gallo" may have been his most recognizable title, his favorite was "Noonoo" to his six grandchildren and three great-grandchildren; and
WHEREAS, one of the things Paul was most proud of during the latter part of his career was telling the stories of children in need and helping those children find homes. He diligently helped to raise nearly $3 Million for the Palmer Home for Children during SuperTalk Mississippi Media's Annual Radiothon; and
WHEREAS, throughout his life, Paul was recognized with many awards, including being selected three times to the Mississippi Top 50. In the days and weeks following his passing, Paul was honored and remembered by local, state, and national leaders. His memory was even celebrated on the floor of the U.S. Senate, and he was praised for his exceptional career of informing the public and commended for the impact that his voice had on the Magnolia State; and
WHEREAS, Paul is survived by his beloved wife of 55 years, Patsy; his children, Mark Galtelli (Susan) and Jennifer Campbell (Jason); his grandchildren, Sarah Dearman (TJ), Grace Galtelli, Katelynn Wallace (Austin), Chandler Bowman (Taylor), Kylie Campbell, and McKinley Campbell; and his great-grandchildren, Della Dearman, Fletcher Wallace, and Leddy Dearman. He is also survived by his brother, David Galtelli (Sandy); his sisters, Ann Brooks (Winston) and Maria Wolf; his brothers-in-law, Eddie Brooks (Julie), David Brooks (Pat), Ricky Brooks (Tena), and Jerry Thompson; his sisters-in-law, Susan O'Briant (Ronnie), Sandra Serio (Dean), Deborah Rybolt (Donald), and Cathy Ramsay (Joe); along with his SuperTalk family and the countless lives he touched through the airwaves; and
WHEREAS, Paul Gallo's voice may be silent, but his stories, his legacy, and his vision will forever echo across the state he loved so dearly:
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE OF THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI, THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES CONCURRING THEREIN, That we do hereby extend the condolences of the Mississippi Senate to the surviving family and friends of talk radio icon Paul Gallo and pay tribute to his career and public contributions, and cherish fondly the memory of this most public-spirited citizen of Mississippi.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That this resolution be presented to the family and friends of Paul Gallo and made available to the Capitol Press Corps.