Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/904648
32 SAG-AFTRA | Fall/Winter 2017 | SAGAFTRA.org Broadcast News I t has been a busy few months for SAG-AFTRA, as members and staff have turned up at journalism conferences nationwide to participate in presentations and panels, provide information and answer questions. These assemblies provide a perfect forum to discuss the most pressing issues facing members who gather news, such as safety in the field and contract issues. UNION ON THE SCENE AT JOURNALISM CONFERENCES Asian American Journalists Association Philadelphia / July 26–29 T he Asian American Journalists Association hosted its annual convention in July, and SAG-AFTRA had a prominent presence throughout. Chief Broadcast Officer Mary Cavallaro and National Director, EEO & Diversity Adam Moore hosted a pre-conference Google Hangout for AJAA members to discuss their employment contracts. In addition, SAG-AFTRA held office hours for AAJA attendees with questions related to their contracts or employment in the industry, and sponsored a panel on broadcast careers and the first AAJA Story Slam, where journalists shared personal stories. The SAG-AFTRA Philadelphia Local was also happy to host a hometown reception for the small-market broadcasters at the Hard Rock Cafe. At the 2017 AAJA Convention, SAG-AFTRA sponsored the first AAJA Story Slam. Philadelphia Local SAG-AFTRA member Lyman Chen, who served as a judge, congratulates the Story Slam winner, freelance reporter Ti-Hua Chang. National Association of Black Journalists' Annual Convention and Career Fair New Orleans / Aug. 9–13 S AG-AFTRA had a strong presence at the National Association of Black Journalists' convention in August. News and Broadcast Assistant Executive Director Peter Fuster joined panelists Crystal Johns of United Talent Agency; Mary Noonan, ABC News vice president, talent and development; and Kevin Olivas, Sinclair Broadcast Group news recruiting manager. The panel, titled Keys to Navigating Your Career: Getting Your Foot in the Door and Beyond, was a deep dive into the multifaceted careers of journalists, what employers need and want, and the tools available for a successful career. It was moderated by SAG-AFTRA member Adrienne Bankert, an ABC News correspondent. Other NABJ events included a contracts workshop led by News & Broadcast National Director Tom Higgins titled Before you Sign on the Dotted Line … You Better Ask Somebody. SAG-AFTRA News & Broadcast Assistant Executive Director/ Labor Counsel Peter Fuster and ABC News Correspondent Adrienne Bankert National Lesbian and Gay Journalists Association Philadelphia / Sept. 7–10 T he National Lesbian and Gay Journalists Association is an organization of journalists, media professionals, educators and students dedicated to fair and accurate coverage of LGBTQ issues. At this year's convention, SAG-AFTRA sponsored a career panel that included member Vittoria Woodill from CBS 3 in Philadelphia and Chief Broadcast Officer Mary Cavallaro. Excellence in Journalism Anaheim, California / Sept. 7–9 A t this year's Excellence in Journalism conference in Anaheim, California, SAG-AFTRA's panel of California- based TV and radio journalists led a lively and open discussion on the topic of safety for Journalists. The panel was moderated by KNBC4 reporter Lolita Lopez and included reporters Greg Lee (KABC7), Pete Demetriou (KNX1070 AM), Astrid Solórzano (KNBC7) and Bob Butler (KCBS Radio). A wide range of issues were covered, including the concerns journalists have when they leave their news vehicle, how to stay safe in the field, how to deal with social Media stalkers and more. Excellence in Journalism is a joint effort between the Radio Television Digital News Association, the Society of Professional Journalists and the National Association of Hispanic Journalists, in conjunction with the Native American Journalists Association. From left, Astrid Solórzano (KNBC7), Pete Demetriou (KNX1070 AM), Greg Lee, (KABC7 Reporter), Bob Butler (KCBS Radio) and Lolita Lopez (KNBC4).