For Immediate Release
Contact:John Haer (412) 281-2727

PITTSBURGH (June 10, 2004)   The Pittsburgh Local of the American Federation of Radio and Television Artists (AFTRA) will present the first annual AFTRA Awards on Monday, June 14th at Dowe's on 9th , Downtown. The event is open to all AFTRA members. The awards recognize achievement in five categories:

Top Broadcast Manager:   The award will be presented to Ron Davenport of Sheridan Broadcasting and WAMO-AM and FM Radio. Davenport is recognized for his efforts in behalf of Sheridan employees and his work to improve labor relations.

Top Freelance Producer:   The award goes to producers T.J. Lubinsky and Henry DeLuca for producing PBS’s successful “American Soundtrack” series under AFTRA’s public TV contract.

Top Elected Official:   AFTRA will honor State Senator Jane Orie. Senator Orie has proven to be a strong ally of AFTRA in its efforts to fight against unfair non-compete restrictive covenants for broadcast employees in Pennsylvania.

Community Ally Award:   The award goes to Gary Rotstein and Chris Rawson of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. Gary and Chris are key organizers of "Off the Record," the annual gridiron-style show satirizing local news makers. The event has raised thousands of dollars for the Pittsburgh Community Food Bank and the AFTRA and Newspaper Guild scholarship funds.

AFTRA Lifetime Achievement Award:   This award is given to a member who has worked throughout his or her career for the advancement of our union and whose professional accomplishments have brought pride to all members. The winner is Alan Boal, long-time WTAE newsperson and former Local president and national board member.

The evening will also be highlighted by the performance of singer/songwriter Carol Lee Espy.