A Journalist
Russell Kay’s articles were published in weekly and
bi-weekly newspapers throughout the state of Florida.
His Newspaper Column Was Popular Throughout Florida
1933 - 1934 - Reported on the Florida Legislature
Circa 1950’s to 1970s - Kay wrote a column called, “Too Late To Classify,” a syndicated weekly newspaper column. His weekly column became extremely popular throughout the state, even though it was written by a man who had dropped out of 8th grade. His writing was relatable, easy to understand, and often humorous.
Circa 1940s -1950s - Board Member of the Florida Public Relations Association
Beginning date unknown, to approx. 1949 - Secretary of the Florida Press Association
He was known as Poppa (or Pappy) Kay, and his wife, LaVerne was known as Mama Kay to the editors of the smaller newspapers throughout the state. He took his family on a trip once a year to visit the editors who published a weekly or semi-weekly newspaper. He was charismatic, friendly, and well-known for his ability to get people to work together and to promote the state.
ARCHIVES:
Russell Kay’s writings and some photos are in Box 82 in the Smather's Library on the University of Florida's campus in Gainesville, Florida. They are in the Department of Special Miscellaneous Collections, on the second floor. His old Underwood manual typewriter is part of Florida History archives held by the University of Florida.
RESOURCES:
Society, Florida Historical (1986) "Florida Historical Quarterly, Volume 65, Number 3," Florida Historical Quarterly: Vol. 65 : No. 3 , Article 1.
Florida Manuscript Acquisitions and Accessions
Available at: https://stars.library.ucf.edu/fhq/vol65/iss3/1
https://digitalcommons.usf.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1090&context=masterstheses
University of Florida Library, Special Collections, “A Guide to the Russell Kay Papers,” July 2006