Viewers in Northern Mississippi will be seeing a lot less of WTVA chief meteorologist Dick Rice next year. After 31 years with the station, Rice is significantly reducing his role with WTVA.
The Tupelo NBC-affiliate announced on Friday that Rice would become the station’s chief meteorologist emeritus. In his new position, Rice will focus on speaking engagements at local schools and community centers as well as occasionally filling in as weathercaster.
Rice received his meteorology training while enlisted in the Navy. After 21 years working on various naval ships, Rice accepted a position with WTVA in 1979 and has been there ever since.
Rice is a local legend in the Tupelo-Columbus area. He was honored for his local TV service earlier this year when NATAS inducted him into its Silver Circle in February. In April, he was inducted into Mississippi Associated Press Broadcasters Association Hall of Fame.