Jennifer C. Berkshire: "'We Wanted a Voice'"
AFT Massachusetts
AFT Massachusetts Advocate
SAUL MILLER AWARDS
ORGANIZING
Local Unions
FIRST AWARD
"Organizing Rocks! How the Union Stood Up for Musicians at an Annual Led Zeppelin Tribute Concert”
AFM Local 802: Allegro
Mikael Elsila, Editor
Judges’ comments: "All three winning entries were examples of difficult, complex struggles where the journalist used the opportunity to convey important information about the jobs, the industry, and the role of the union in fighting for their members’ interests. 'Organizing Rocks' was a compelling story about how 802 organized to protect its base and new members. The lead was strong, if that was the only thing a member read: one call gets results. Shows the strength of the union in resolving contract issues if only members will see it playing that role."
***
SECOND AWARD
"'Storm Watch': Weathering the Job Action Against LLP"
Motion Picture Editors Guild, IATSE 700: Editors Guild Magazine
Tomm Carroll, Editor; Rob Callahan, Author
Judges’ comments: " 'Storm Watch' is a well-written backstage story of what organizing really looks like in this industry. Confronts today's reality of the entertainment industry becoming increasingly non-union even as the industry expands. Campaign is not over, but it was important to use it to inform members of these ongoing challenges."
***
THIRD AWARD
"Look Who's Getting Fully Paid at CUNY: Adjuncts Win Full Pay in 15th Week on All Campuses"
PSC/CUNY, AFT 2334: Clarion
John Tarleton; Peter Hogness
Judges’ comments: “An example of confronting outrageous exploitation and winning. Lively style, lots of quotes."
International, National and Other Labor Organizations
FIRST AWARD
"Victory for Utah Dannon Workers"
Bakery, Confectionery, Tobacco and Grain Millers International Union: BCTGM News
Corrina Christensen
Judges’ comments: "The article ties a Local victory to international food workers' issues. It clearly shows the importance of cross-border solidarity and the potential power of global campaigns."
***
SECOND AWARD
"Building Power: Local Leaders Go Out of Their Way to Re-Energize Workers"
AFSCME Minnesota Council 5: Stepping Up
Michael Kuchta
Judges’ comments: "Showcases the efforts of local leaders in organizing, particularly in mobilizing member activity. Good photos, a lot of quotes. The layout was a little confusing."
COLLECTIVE BARGAINING
Local Unions
FIRST AWARD
"One Bad Dog: Confronting the Problem of Medical Costs"
IBEW Local 1245: Utility Reporter
Eric Wolfe, Communications Director
Judges’ comments: "Excellent in-depth primer on key bargaining issue: medical coverage for retirees. This is labor journalism doing its job: providing informative analysis from the perspective of the union member that isn't available anywhere else. Lively, creative, easy to read layout, good use of graphs and graphics."
***
SECOND AWARD
"New York Chapter Wins Back Affordable Retiree Health Coverage"
NCFO District of Local 32BJ/SEIU: The Journal
Fred J. Solowey
Judges’ comments: "Interesting blow-by-blow description of the union's struggle over this issue, featuring the involvement of workers through quotes and pictures. Nice use of photos showing the members at work."
***
THIRD AWARD
“Postal Service Plays 'Chicken' with Excessing Threats"
New York Metro Area Postal Union, APWU: The Union Mail
Flo Summergrad
Judges’ comments: "Arms the members with knowledge about the employer's tactics that they won't get from other sources. Pull quotes make it easy to read and accessible."
International, National and Other Labor Organizations
FIRST AWARD
"How We Won the Right to Bargain Collectively: 'It Was Our Ticket Out of Poverty'"
United Healthcare Workers East: Our Life And Times
J. J. Johnson
Judges’ comments: "This well-written article reminds members of the courageous early struggles to win collective bargaining among New York's healthcare workers. The layout links the history of 1199 to the recent contract reopener that resulted in members approving of a contract. The contract included some concessions from both sides, but in the words of one member who was quoted in the article, it 'taught me patience and the importance of solidarity.'"
***
SECOND AWARD
"Standing Up to Corporate Greed"
Transport Workers Union of America: TWU Express
Liz Giegerich
Judges’ comments: "Excellent use of the coverage of one action to report on a multi-faceted campaign. Also brings in analysis of the industry and of the financial crisis. Excellent photos."
***
THIRD AWARD
"New Three-Year Contract: OCSEA members Vote to ACCEPT"
Ohio Civil Service Employees Association: Public Employee Quarterly
Sally Meckling; Deirdre O'Neill-Wedig; Meryl Williams
Judges’ comments: "Great use of layout, color, photos and graphics to present multiple aspects of a contract vote, with a lot of accompanying information. Provides members with a real understanding of the values of their union, and how they stack up to other states and other Ohio employees."
POLITICAL ACTION
Local Unions
FIRST AWARD
"Back on the Campaign Trail"/"Working the Primaries"
CWA Local 1180: The Communiqué
Lorraine Gamble-Lofton, Gary Schoichet
Judges’ comments: “This article focuses on the political involvement of a member who got her feet wet in the Obama campaign, but whose enthusiasm continued to grow through her involvement in a local political campaign as her involvement and skills increased. The quotes and photos add appeal and the article credits those members who participated in the primary. It encourages political action and involvement among members."
***
SECOND AWARD
"Unemployment Insurance Reform"
PSC/CUNY, AFT 2334: Clarion
John Tarleton; Sara Beck
Judges’ comments: "This publication consistently analyzes complex issues for the union's members, and this article is no exception. The article links policy reform to lobbying activity, and links them both to the harmful impact of the current situation on their adjunct members. It also adds a helpful tip on filing for unemployment for their members. Could have used a more imaginative layout."
***
THIRD AWARD
"Fighting Back: IBEW 1245 Blitz Punctures Privatization for City of Redding"
IBEW Local 1245: Utility Reporter
Eric Wolfe, Communications Director
Judges’ comments: "Excellent coverage of an issue facing all public workers and the public they serve. Provides a blueprint for a successful response to privatization pressures."
International, National and Other Labor Organizations
FIRST AWARD
"Heeding the Human Cost"
Milwaukee Area Labor Council: Milwaukee Labor Press
Dominique Paul Noth
Judges’ comments: "Debunks the opposition's argument attacking the need for health reform. Well-written, heartfelt."
***
SECOND AWARD
"June 23 Day of Action Bands Members Together"
Ohio Civil Service Employees Association: Public Employee Quarterly
OCSEA Communications Department
Judges’ comments: "Very lively coverage of myriad of activities in a single day. Showcases the activism and enthusiasm of members. We liked the pictures, the layout, and use of color."
***
THIRD AWARD
"Guild Joins Battle for Free Choice Act"
The Newspaper Guild-CWA: The Guild Reporter
Lou Grieco
Judges’ comments: "Judges liked this unique first-person account because it highlights a partnership with another union. Provides important insight into what political activity can look like from an individual member's POV."
General Excellence
INTERNATIONAL AND NATIONAL PUBLICATIONS
Newspapers and Newsletters
FIRST AWARD
International Musician
American Federation of Musicians
Sam Folio, Editor; Antoinette Follett, Managing Editor
Judges’ comments: "In addition to usual run of labor and industry news, provides a rich set of resources for members, such as the product reviews and the how-to piece on search engine optimization. Cover features on prominent members are high-level, could run in a general-intere4st magazine."
***
SECOND AWARD
The Guild Reporter
The Newspaper Guild-CWA
Andy Zipser
Judges’ comments: "Makes good use of a natural resource with first-person pieces by members. Crisp writing. Good big-picture looks at issues, supplemented by news briefs from locals."
***
THIRD AWARD
On Campus
American Federation of Teachers
Barbara McKenna
Judges’ comments: "Excellent range of issues covered, from the role of faculty in accreditation to the use of cell phones in class to the impact of budget cuts. Pro-and-con pieces bring a rank-and-file voice to relevant issues."
Magazines
FIRST AWARD
American Teacher
American Federation of Teachers
Roger S. Glass
Judges’ comments: "Well-written, edited and designed. Excellent mix of articles about education policy, classroom practice and general labor issues. Strong use of rank-and-file voices in 'Speak Out' and 'Teachers' Lounge' features."
***
SECOND AWARD
TWU Express
Transport Workers Union of America
Liz Giegerich
Judges’ comments: "Does good job of reporting on issues and activities at the international and local level. Interesting and instructive labor history pieces."
***
THIRD AWARD
Air Line Pilot
Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA)
Sharon B. Vereb
Judges’ comments: "Good use of columns by rank-and-filers, and of reports from committee chairs, to supplement news articles. Highlights advantages of union membership without being preachy. Pull-out guide to jumpseat rules and recommendations a usedful feature. Nicely designed."
STATE AND CENTRAL BODY PUBLICATIONS
FIRST AWARD
Milwaukee Labor Press
Milwaukee Area Labor Council
Dominique Paul Noth
Judges’ comments: "Quirky and interesting writing, sometimes with a sense of humor, on a variety of subjects from workplace to social justice to social issues. Takes on larger issues well. Makes its points without being preachy. Good headlines. Good use of photos, although the photos could be better."
***
SECOND AWARD
Minneapolis Labor Review
Minneapolis Regional Labor Federation
Steve Share
Judges’ comments: "A close second, the publication gives a great deal of local unions' news so that member unions know what the others are doing. Has a good story on the 75th anniversary of the 1934 Teamsters strike in Minneapolis, reprinted from an earlier issue. Human interest stories with a lot of photos."
***
THIRD AWARD
St. Louis/Southern Illinois Labor Tribune
St. Louis/Southern Illinois Labor Tribune???
Dana Spitzer
Judges’ comments: "A labor weekly since 1937. Impressive. Covers the issues."
LOCAL AND REGIONAL UNION PUBLICATIONS
Circulation Less Than 1,500
FIRST AWARD
Momentum
Union of Clerical, Administrative & Technical Staff at NYU
Stephen Rechner
Judges’ comments: "Well done. Lots of info on what the union is doing right now. The steward profiles with pictures are a great way for R&F to get to know their stewards. You encourage involvement, but would like to see more of that. Think of the newsletter as a way to start a dialogue with your members, not just getting info out to them. Layout and color is fantastic."
***
SECOND AWARD
Union Catalyst
AFGE Local 3748
Sharon Grugel; Marjorie Olson; Leonard Cook
Judges’ comments: "Good use of images -- both photos and cartoons. Glad to see a clear political message, and encouraging involvement. Would like to see more about what the union is doing, especially in ways that would show how dues are being spent."
Circulation 1,500 to 9,999
FIRST AWARD
Wisconsin Laborer
Wisconsin Laborers' District Council
Joe Oswald
Judges’ comments: "Includes both national and local level political issues throughout. Info on skills trainings and OSH issues. Very relevant. Well laid-out. USEFUL!"
***
SECOND AWARD
Overture
AFM Local 47
Leslie Lashinsky, Editor; Linda Rapka, Managing Editor
Judges’ comments: "Includes info on EFCA, classes for musicians, and goes a step further to talk about the tech/gaming industry and where musicians unions play a role. Very cutting edge."
***
THIRD AWARD
Insight
UFCW Local 789
Jennifer Christensen
Judges’ comments: "Bilingual. Including member's issues in their own words with photos shows that the members are the union. Also strong politics -- talks about labor law not being strong enough and picketing experience. Well done."
Circulation 10,000 to 19,999
FIRST AWARD
Communiqué
CWA Local 1180
Gary Schoichet
Judges’ comments: "Beautiful, relevant and militant union message. Photos support the articles well. Glad to see it comes out 6 times per year. Could even aim for monthly. The more often it comes out, the better members can use it."
***
SECOND AWARD
The Unionist
SSEU AFSCME Local 371
Martin Fishgold
Judges’ comments: "This is a monthly newsletter – fantastic. The articles and photos clearly show the union is very active and standing up for its members."
***
THIRD AWARD
Local 378 Voice
COPE Local 378
Mike Bruce
Judges’ comments: "Inside This Issue” draws reader into the issue. Multi-lingual message from the president is a huge plus. The union is very transparent in its bargaining and financial reports. The only real downfall is that it only come out quarterly."
Circulation 20,000 Plus
FIRST AWARD
99Report
UFCW Local 99
Jim McLaughlin, President
Judges’ comments: "Incorporated labor history well. Transparent article about bargaining update. Good use of photos -- union members DOING something. Published 6 times per year. I'd recommend publishing more frequently if possible."
***
SECOND AWARD
Public Employee Press
AFSCME District Council 37
Bill Schleicher
Judges’ comments: "This publication is not afraid to be political, even veering away from the international's rhetoric. Also included info on Black History and a section of the magazine written in Spanish. Published every month -- fantastic."
***
THIRD AWARD
New York Teacher/City Edition
United Federation of Teachers/AFT Local 2
Joseph LoVerde
Judges’ comments: "I awarded this Third Place because it is well written and includes a lot of info [and] because it is published twice a month. This is a great way for members to feel like the newsletter is a part of a movement."
NON-PERIODICAL PUBLICATIONS
Local Unions
FIRST AWARD
Challenge. Struggle. Hope: SEIU Local 99 Yearly Report
L.A. City & County School Employees Union/SEIU 99
Blanca Gallegos
Judges’ comments: "An annual report worth reading. As the title suggests, this California union doesn't sugar-coat a challenging year in which members sacrificed a lot during the recession and the assault on public services. But it also reports how the members didn't roll over. With clean, simple design and no-nonsense presentation, the report captures what members faced, how they responded as a union, the impact of their actions, and the principles that guide them as they fight to turn the situation around. This bilingual booklet is the strongest in a series of print materials the local used to demonstrate that the value of a union is more than rhetoric."
***
SECOND AWARD
The Case for Some Common Sense: California Stories
L.A. City & County School Employees Union/SEIU 99
Blanca Gallegos; Terry Carter
Judges’ comments: "Four simple, effective stories that put a human face on the impact of budget cuts by various public agencies. The twist that stands out: In each case, this publication gives a solution to raise the revenue as an alternative to the cuts."
International, National and Other Labor Organizations
FIRST AWARD
Cut Private Contractors, Not Public Services
AFSCME District Council 37
DC 37 Communications Department
Judges’ comments: "This set of compelling transit ads effectively and concisely promotes the worth of public employees, compared with the private contractors who would take their jobs. The ads use a superb selection of members' photos and occupations, combined with just enough text to effectively make the point."
***
SECOND AWARD
THEN & NOW: American Federation of Government Employees
American Federation of Government Employees
Christina M. Erling, Editor
Judges’ comments: "Wow. This 75-year history of AFGE is an example of how historical retrospectives should be done. It's well-designed, well thought out, and does a great job mixing history with current reality. The book is a good read, makes great use of photos and graphics, and puts the emphasis on the cause, not the union officers. Era by era, the book brings decades of progress and struggle to light as it tells a story of federal workers constantly under attack by elected officials and privateers. With odds stacked against them, they keep fighting for themselves and for the public they serve."
***
THIRD AWARD
12 Actions to Build Effective Unions
California Federation of Teachers
Jane Hundertmark and Dick Hemann
Judges’ comments: "A solid handbook for local leaders. It gives useful, month-by-month advice on how to take care of union business and mobilize membership. What sets it apart are real examples -- timelines, posters, forms, newsletters, tracking reports, policies, checklists – that illustrate how to do it right."
WEBSITES
Local Unions
FIRST AWARD
www.cope378.ca
COPE Local 378
Sage Aaron
National and International Unions
FIRST AWARD
www.aftra.com
American Federation of Television and Radio Artists
Leslie Simmons, Editor; Marina Martinez, Assistant Editor
***
SECOND AWARD
www.twu.org
Transport Workers Union of America
Jeff Rae/Liz Giegerich
***
Other Labor Organizations
FIRST AWARD
www.MilwaukeeLabor.org
Milwaukee Area Labor Council
Dominique Paul Noth
***
SECOND AWARD
www.learnworkfamily.org
Labor Project for Working Families
Vibhuti Mehra
ELECTRONIC NEWSLETTER
International, National and Other Labor Organizations
FIRST AWARD
Union City!
Metro Washington Labor Council/AFL-CIO
Chris Garlock, Editor; Adam Wright, Assistant Editor
Judges’ comments: "Educational. Good resource with lots of info. Fairly easy presentation of content. Good links/menus at the top, good photos to make content seem more interesting, lots of info, but digestible; interactivity & relevancy comes from event/job opportunities. Impressive as a daily newsletter."
***
SECOND AWARD
1199SEIU Online Update
United Healthcare Workers East
Errol King, Web Department Director; Angel Reyes, Assistant
Judges’ comments: "Lots of content but it is presented cleanly. Regular asks for member input/action. News is clearly relevant to audience. I like that it is brief, the top story seems really focused on membership, and quite relevant and timely, and the top photo includes membership. News items are presented as concise links."
***
THIRD AWARD
Inside AFT Connecticut
AFT Connecticut
Eric Bailey
Judges’ comments: "Very action driven. Clean and concise presentation. Events are prominently featured."
BLOG
FIRST AWARD
Edwize [http://edwize.org]
United Federation of Teachers, AFT Local 2
William LeVay, Editor
Judges’ comments: "Great looking; includes nice mix of videos, text, images, charts; clear bold headlines, links to comments. Great writing like this: www.edwize.org/an-apology-from-a-teacher#more-7062. Clear agenda that is advanced; comprehensive use of diverse sources."
***
SECOND AWARD
Today's Workplace [http://www.todaysworkplace.org]
Workplace Fairness
Paula Brantner; Brett Brownell
Judges’ comments: “Positive: Great writing like this: www.todaysworkplace.org/2010/06/07/on-being-unemployed/ and good mixture of types of posts. Huge number and mix of bloggers contributing and nice bios of each. Looks great.
"Negative: Focus and purpose of the blog is unclear. On some pages, there are design 'overflow' issues and the about page is not accurate. Uses graphic ad at the top that looks like it's part of the site, and is not identified as an ad. Using teasers (breaking posts with a 'continued on' link) instead of displaying them in their entirety on the home page might make for a more exciting home page."
***
THIRD AWARD
iam751.wordpress.com
IAMAW District 751
Bryan Corliss
Judges’ comments: "Positive: Pretty good visually, functionally, in terms of writing. Clean and virtually no navigation so it's easy to follow. Clear focus.
"Negative: Front page has full blogs, giving it a run-on feel. Just not enough use of graphics -- clean look is too clean. Search capability is far too narrow and rigid (single word, must be present as spelled in article, etc.)."
NEWS STORY
Local Unions
FIRST AWARD
"Hwy. 49 Fire No Match for Auburn Placer Disposal Crew"
Operating Engineers Local 3: Engineers News
Mandy Jessup McMillen
Judges’ comments: "Great straight-ahead news story that painted the picture of the scene and let the workers talk through good use of quotes. A fine tale of bravery in a dangerous situation."
***
SECOND AWARD
"Fighting Back: Members, Retirees Rally to Defend Benefits at NV-Energy"
IBEW Local 1245: Utility Reporter
Eric Wolfe, Communications Director
Judges’ comments: "Lead sets good scene and gives feel of tension in the room. Good work in describing the back story, physical condition of retirees and their mobilization."
***
THIRD AWARD
"Justice for Jazz Artists"
AFM Local 802: Allegro
Todd Bryant Weeks
Judges’ comments: "Really brings to light a serious problem of which most people are not aware. Good explanation of the local’s fight to repeal the NY club ticket tax that was intended to help fund musicians’ pensions."
International, National and Other Labor Organizations
FIRST AWARD
"Layoffs Tear the Heart Out of Children's Services"
AFSCME District Council 37: Public Employee Press
Gregory N. Heires
***
SECOND AWARD
"Guild Organizes Internet News Website in 'Virtual Reality' Card-Check Election"
St. Louis/Southern Illinois Labor Tribune
Kevin P. Madden
***
THIRD AWARD
"APWU Presses the Fight to Keep Retail Units Open"
American Postal Workers Union: American Postal Worker
FEATURE STORY
Local Unions
FIRST AWARD
"Will Green Jobs Be Good Jobs?"
IBEW Local 1245: Utility Reporter
Eric Wolfe, Communications Director
Judges’ comments: “An up-close look at a job-training program in economically depressed West Oakland, where young workers are trained in both ‘green’ construction and life skills. We meet the young apprentices and learn how the IBEW program is teaching them military-style discipline, introducing them to a solid career path, and changing their lives. Many of these apprentices have been hired on to build an underground transmission line, and the story telescopes out to examine how strengthening the grid is essential for transmitting green energy. The story ends by putting the concept of ‘green’ jobs in a larger political and social context, analyzing the risk of climate change and the role of federal policy in alleviating it ¬– and creating decent jobs. The story takes on the timely issue of green jobs, explores it from local, national, and international perspectives, and draws out its importance without being didactic. Solid reporting combines with good story-telling and a strong photo essay to make the people and the issues real."
***
SECOND AWARD
"Still Loving 'Lucy'"
Motion Picture Editors Guild, IATSE 700: Editors Guild Magazine
Carrie Puchkoff, Author; Tomm Carroll, Editor
Judges’ comments: “A fun romp back to the early days of TV sitcoms. Through the eyes of ‘I Love Lucy,’ film editor and union member Dann Cahn shows us how Desi Arnaz and Lucille Ball assembled a team of producers and editors who developed and changed the new medium, bringing production values to a whole new level. The story includes a discussion of early editing technologies and tight production schedules, and shows how Cahn advocated to expand his crew to meet these challenges and pioneered new methods for syncing dailies. An engaging read that brings early television history to life."
***
THIRD AWARD
"The Shame of Our City"
CWA Local 1180: The Communiqué
Gary Schoichet; Lorraine Gamble-Lofton
Judges’ comments: “A frank story about homelessness among New York City’s civil servants, told through the personal stories of one housing department worker who is homeless herself and another city worker who is barely hanging on to her mortgage. In this era of attacks on ‘overcompensated’ public employees, this story is a revelation, showing how close many public sector workers are to financial ruin. Timely and compelling."
International, National and Other Labor Organizations
FIRST AWARD
"Hiring Practices Reveal Flawed System"
IAMAW District 751: Aero Mechanic
Connie Kelliher
Judges’ comments: “Timely, original reporting is the hallmark of Connie Kelliher's ‘Hiring Practices Reveal Flawed System.’ By speaking with more than half a dozen workers who'd been hired by Boeing only to receive layoff warning notices weeks – or even days – later, Kelliher exposed chaotic decision-making at Boeing's top levels, leading to inhumane hiring policies at a time of recession. Kelliher profiled several workers who left good-paying jobs they'd held for decades for the promise of a bright future at Boeing; one received a layoff warning notice before she even received her first Boeing paycheck. Kelliher uses hiring data and interviews with a broad swath of workers to produce an original, ambitious, newsworthy article."
***
SECOND AWARD
“Steeler Nation Fights Its Way Back"
People's World: www.peoplesworld.org
John Wojcik
Judges’ comments: “John Wojcik uses sports fandom as a poignant window into the long-term costs of blue-collar layoffs in the country's heartland. On a Steelers' game night in September, Wojcik spoke with out-of-town fans who had made the trek from California to Pittsburgh for the game; it turns out, like many Steelers fans across the country, the family's patriarch had worked at the Homestead Mill until it was shuttered in 1989. Wojcik captures the pride these former steel workers felt in the work they did, the devastation of the mass layoffs, and their struggles since, working fast-food jobs for minimum wage. Wojcik's essay makes an eloquent argument for an industrial policy in America."
***
THIRD AWARD
"Hunting Down Unsafe Trucks"
AFSCME Minnesota Council 5: Stepping Up
Michael Kuchta
Judges’ comments: “A sensitive portrait of a difficult job. By tracing a day in the life of a State Patrol commercial vehicle inspector, Michael Kuchta captures the anger these workers face from hard-working long-haul truckers but also the vital role they play in catching scofflaws who endanger public highways and other drivers on the road. The photo essay, colorful captions, and sensitive interviews capture the tensions and rewards of this challenging line of work."
ANALYSIS
Local Unions
FIRST AWARD
"Pensions: Public and Private"
PSC/CUNY, AFT 2334: Clarion
Eric Laursen
Judges’ comments: "We've never seen this issue explained so clearly. Well written. Clarification of an important but murky issue. Well framed opening."
***
SECOND AWARD
"Building Trust: How the Union Is Stepping Up Its Justice for Jazz Artists Campaign"
AFM Local 802: Allegro
Todd Bryant Weeks
Judges’ comments: "Skillfully weaves in the history of the business and the history of the union to illustrate the in-between status of jazz musicians. Shows how the quest for pension justice has historical roots. Important reporting on a neglected topic. The first paragraph causes confusion by alternating between third and first persons."
***
THIRD AWARD
"Service Jobs and Hopes for Prosperity”
UFCW Local 8 - Golden State: Voice of Action
Jacques Loveall, Editor and President
Judges’ comments: "Well reasoned, direct writing. Good historical parallel of unions transforming sweatshops 100 years ago and hoping to do the same with Walmarts now. Demonstrates the importance of the service sector."
International, National and Other Labor Organizations
FIRST AWARD
"Don's World: Massey Energy's CEO Defines a Rogue Coal Company"
United Mine Workers of America: United Mine Workers Journal
Phil Smith
Judges’ comments: "This is a strong big-picture piece, with a good blend of the professional-quality reporting you'd expect to see in a mainstream-media report and the pro-worker, pro-citizen advocacy of a good union publication. It's especially timely in light of this year's tragedy at a Massey mine."
***
SECOND AWARD
"Is There a Bully in Your Midst?"
American Federation of Teachers: Public Employee Advocate
Kathy Walsh
Judges’ comments: "This piece does a good job of explaining a situation that happens in almost every workplace, and helps people to identify a problem that they might not have felt they could do anything about. After outlining the problem, it goes on to explain what workers can do with the help of their union."
***
THIRD AWARD
"Despite Changes in Senate, EFCA Still Faces Hurdles"
Metal Trades Department AFL-CIO: Metaletter
Judges’ comments: "A good, clear, brief explanation of EFCA and its importance to workers, along with a vivid, easy-to-understand example of the kinds of abuses it's designed to address. The way the story is constructed is a model for the labor press in how legislative topics can be made interesting and easy to understand."
PROFILE
Local Unions
FIRST AWARD
"Dave Kotelchuck Applies Science: Professor Honored for Health and Safety Work"
PSC/CUNY, AFT 2334: Clarion
Pat Arnow
Judges’ comments: "Nice mix of the importance of unions and personal information; great details woven nicely into the narrative; presents a complete picture of the man with many facets, as a well-rounded profile should."
***
SECOND AWARD
"Sound Trek: The Audio Explorations of Ben Burtt"
Motion Picture Editors Guild, IATSE 700: Editors Guild Magazine
Michael Kunkes, Author; Tomm Carroll, Editor
Judges’ comments: "Very informative profile on someone who has had a lasting impact in the film industry, although the Q&A format hinders the overall flow. A narrative structure would have better served the readers and the subject."
***
THIRD AWARD
"A Union Soldier, Scientist and Scholar"
UFCW Local 99: UFCW 99 Report
Jim McLaughlin, Editor
Judges’ comments: "In a short piece, the writer has managed to capture the essence of this longtime, dedicated union member and the many facets of his professional and personal life. Great layout and interesting photos."
International, National and Other Labor Organizations
FIRST AWARD
"50 Who Carried the 1199 Torch"
United Healthcare Workers East: Our Life And Times
Judges’ comments: "Tremendous effort. This submission is really in a class by itself. This issue shows how print publications can still be compelling in this age of new media. The stories of these 1199 pioneers represent a unique historical record that can be passed on to future generations in the union."
***
SECOND AWARD
"Breaking One More Barrier in the Blue Yonder"
Air Line Pilots Association: Air Line Pilot
Susan Burke
Judges’ comments: "Entertaining and informative, this profile documents how individual choices help make history and it leaves us wanting to know more about other milestones in the aviation profession."
***
THIRD AWARD
"Willie Worsley: 'Our Reward Will Be in History'"
NY State United Teachers: The New York Teacher
Bernie Mulligan
Judges’ comments: "So many people have heard this story or seen the film, but never from this personal perspective. A unique achievement in reporting and writing. The timeline at the bottom of the story adds important context."
EDITORIAL or COLUMN
Local Unions
FIRST AWARD
"RF-CUNY Needs to Come Clean"
PSC/CUNY, AFT 2334: Clarion
Nancy Romer
Judges’ comments: "Reading the Clarion is always a pleasure because it's a smartly written publication aimed at an obviously smart readership. This piece, which challenges university research money being spent on a union-busting law firm, is a fine example of that quality, as Romer's clear-eyed exposition guides readers through a potentially confusing thicket of details. Using a low-key approach that respects her readers' intelligence, Romer builds a case on facts rather than invective yet reaches an inescapably damning conclusion, which to us is the hallmark of truly deft opinion writing. Great job."
***
SECOND AWARD
"The $200,000 Complaint"
IBEW Local 1245: Utility Reporter
Tom Dalzell, President; Eric Wolfe, Communications Director
Judges’ comments: "Responding to members' complaints from a bully pulpit is always a tricky proposition, and especially when the complainant comes off as whiny and self-absorbed. The issues raised by such complaints, however, are rarely unique and, rather than blow them off as so much belly-aching -- which would only allow them to fester -- Dalzell addresses the complaining member squarely but respectfully. This is a fine example of a union leader firmly and non-judgmentally teaching his members what it means to be grown-ups."
***
THIRD AWARD
"We're Number, Uh . . . 42?"
UFCW Local 400: Union Leader
Tom McNutt
Judges’ comments: "The piece makes familiar points in the healthcare battle, but Tom McNutt keeps it short and sweet. As a result, he delivers an effective piece that undoubtedly caught the attention of his readers and left them with cogent talking points for health care reform."
International, National and Other Labor Organizations
FIRST AWARD
"In Health Care Debate, Don't Fall Prey to the Politics of Exclusion"
University of Minnesota Labor Education Service: WorkdayMinnesota.org
Mary Bellman
Judges’ comments: "This well-written piece focuses in on an aspect of the health-care debate that doesn't often get much attention: coverage of illegal immigrants. Bellman makes a compelling case that morally, as well as financially, excluding immigrants from any comprehensive health-care reform bill doesn't make logical sense."
***
SECOND AWARD
"The Conversation We Need to Have"
American Federation of Teachers: Public Employee Advocate
Kathy Walsh
Judges’ comments: "In our current Tea Party times, the author makes a compelling case for the importance of taxation. The services that she – and many people – value, from public education to regulation of Wall Street excesses, can’t be delivered without taxes. And she offers a pointed solution to help raise more revenue: Adopting more progressive state income tax brackets."
***
THIRD AWARD
"City Should Sink Its Own Breed of Water Pirates"
Milwaukee Area Labor Council: Milwaukee Labor Press
Dominique Paul Noth
Judges’ comments: "Privatization of public services is an issue of significant importance to labor unions across the country. Noth highlights a very local example -- the proposed privatization of Milwaukee's water system -- to make the case (humorously) that such short-term money grabs will be financially detrimental in the long run."
SERIES of ARTICLES
Local Unions
FIRST AWARD
Leading Edge
CSEA Inc.: The Work Force
Stephen Madarasz, Editor
Judges’ comments: "Good history and nice use of quotes from living union members and good use of historical documents for the rest."
***
SECOND AWARD
Health Care Reform and Retirees
Teamsters Local 237, Retiree Division: Retiree News & Views
Donna Ristorucci, Editor
Judges’ comments: "Good work clearing up health bill issues important to retirees. Could have pointed out flaws in those portions of the bill."
***
International, National and Other Labor Organizations
FIRST AWARD
Toxic Mobile Homes
St. Louis/Southern Illinois Labor Tribune
Kevin P. Madden
Judges’ comments: "This is stellar work. Madden broke the story and it was so compelling, other news media followed. Then he broke more stories on where else it was happening and how it could happen. This is journalism at its finest."
***
SECOND AWARD
The Changing Newsroom.--Part 1; Part 2
American Federation of Television and Radio Artists: AFTRA Magazine
Christopher de Haan, Editor; Leslie Simmons, Managing Editor; Mark Jones, Author
Judges’ comments: "Well done. This piece thoughtfully presented the pros and cons of the changeover where reporters now do camera, sound and editing work, too. Very informative, with union members telling what they like and hate about the changes."
***
THIRD AWARD
Wastefulness of Contracting Out
AFSCME District Council 37: Public Employee Press
Gregory N. Heires
Judges’ comments: "Very good reporting and writing. It can't be pointed out often enough that contracting out rarely saves money. Excellent examples here."
SOCIAL MEDIA
National and International Unions
FIRST AWARD
IBEW Facebook Fan Page - www.facebook.com/IBEWFB
International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers
Judges’ comments: "Clear objectives and excellent inclusion of metrics in assessing outcomes. Building interactivity and communicating message is key, but need to go beyond discussion into mobilization around organizing, bargaining, political action, etc."
***
SECOND AWARD
"JOBS Now!"
International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers
Judges’ comments: "Excellent use of social media to mobilize union members and the public around a specific action. Next time, need numbers of actions generated or other such metrics to indicate outcome."
***
THIRD AWARD
www.facebook.com/ufcwcanada
UFCW Canada
Derek Johnstone
Judges’ comments: "Building interactivity is key in social media and you've accomplished that goal. Next, need to go beyond providing a forum for discussion into mobilization—organizing, bargaining, political action campaigns, etc."
Other Labor Organizations
FIRST AWARD
Union Privilege Social Media Campaign
http://twitter.com/unionplus
Union Privilege
Scott Triana
Judges’ comments: "Outstanding use of social in every regard. Union Plus clearly understands the value of social media and how best to utilize it."
***
SECOND AWARD
IAMAW District Lodge 751 Social Media Campaign
IAMAW District 751
Bryan Corliss
Judges’ comments: "Understanding your audience is critical, and it's excellent you recognize that aspect as key to formulating a social media plan. Would like to see you expand into using social media for bargaining, organizing, legislative or other campaigns relevant to rank-and-file union members."
***
THIRD AWARD
"Save the LPN Program"
AFT Connecticut
Eric Bailey •
Judges’ comments: "All three AFT Connecticut submissions are excellent examples of utilizing social media. Selected the LPN bargaining campaign out of the three because it sets a good example for small and large local unions in strategic implementation of social media within the context of union campaigns."
BEST DESIGN
Local Unions
FIRST AWARD
www.cope378.ca
COPE Local 378
Sage Aaron
***
SECOND AWARD
www.IBEW1245.com
IBEW Local 1245
Eric Wolfe, Webmaster
National and International Unions
FIRST AWARD
www.aftra.com
American Federation of Television and Radio Artists
Leslie Simmons, Editor; Marina Martinez, Assistant Editor
***
SECOND AWARD
www.ibew.org
International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers
Edwin D. Hill
***
THIRD AWARD
www.goiam.org
International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers
Kelly Hernandez; Donna Georgallas; Joyce Bond
Other Labor Organizations
FIRST AWARD
www.solidaritycenter.org
American Center for International Labor Solidarity (Solidarity Center)
Joan Seidman Welsh
***
SECOND AWARD
http://members.csea.com/memberhome/
California School Employees Association
Brad Washburn, Editor
***
THIRD AWARD
AFL-CIO Convention 2009 FlashDrive
Union Privilege
Jon Ross
BEST CONTENT
Local Unions
FIRST AWARD
www.mediaworkers.org
California Media Workers Guild
Steve Stallone
***
SECOND AWARD
www.cope378.ca
COPE Local 378
Sage Aaron
***
THIRD AWARD
www.uupinfo.org
United University Professions
Kenneth Holman, Webmaster
National and International Unions
FIRST AWARD
www.goiam.org
International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers
Kelly Hernandez; Donna Georgallas; Joyce Bond
***
SECOND AWARD
www.apwu.org
American Postal Workers Union
***
THIRD AWARD (Shared):
www.ibew.org
International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers
Edwin D. Hill
***
THIRD AWARD (Shared):
www.walmartworkerscanada.ca/freespeech
UFCW Canada
Other Labor Organizations
FIRST AWARD
www.learnworkfamily.org
Labor Project for Working Families
Vibhuti Mehra
***
SECOND AWARD
www.solidaritycenter.org
American Center for International Labor Solidarity (Solidarity Center)
Joan Seidman Welsh •
***
THIRD AWARD
www.workplacefairness.org
Workplace Fairness
Paula Brantner
PHOTOGRAPH
Local Unions
FIRST AWARD
"Stella D'oro Workers Fight for Jobs”
PSC/CUNY, AFT 2334: Clarion
Pat Arnow
Judges’ comments: "The concern being expressed by the worker in this photo is quite serious. He has the attention of the politician, who seems to be listening intently. The photo is enriched by the banner in the background and the cameras recording what is really street-level rank-and-file lobbying at its finest."
***
SECOND AWARD
"Circuit Reliability"
IBEW Local 1245: Utility Reporter
Eric Wolfe, Photographer
Judges’ comments: "This photo is a serious attempt to document part of the worklife of people in the power industry. Digging up lines is dirty and dangerous work, which you can see here. The photo should suggest to other unions the possibilities in documenting the work of their members, in a realistic and dramatic way, especially when displayed with others in a series as this photo was."
***
THIRD AWARD
"A&P Meat Cutters"
UFCW Local 152: Unity
Brian String, President
Judges’ comments: "The meat cutters depicted are sharpening their knives, as if getting ready for battle. Each of the four workers depicted wears a union sticker, and there's even blood stains on two of the aprons. It is a photo with serious intent, and a sense of humor."
International, National and Other Labor Organizations
FIRST AWARD
"No Greater Friend"
United Healthcare Workers East: Our Life And Times
Jim Tynan
Judges’ comments: "It looks real and real is important. Real love and emotion are showed. You can tell Kennedy is the hero. The technique of using a slow shutter speed and a flash shows movement and locks in the moment and allows it to continue."
***
SECOND AWARD
"Rosemarie Nguyen"
American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees: AFSCME Works
J. T. MacMillan
Judges’ comments: "[As published] would have been printed better, but the image is strong. The way the bills and drugs are laid out (with the past due stamp on the bills), show a lot of detail about her life and really illustrate the story. There is an appropriate amount of stuff in the background to show who she is."
***
THIRD AWARD (shared)
“Don Poulin”
American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees: AFSCME Works
Jim Evans
Judges’ comments: “Used a flash outdoors. You almost can't tell the flash techinque was used. Nice portrait. One-third rule is working. Nice angle. The color contrast is good. The contrast between the blue sky and yellow bus is pleasing, and the red border helps bring out the colors, too.”
“Two Firefighters”
BC Government & Service Employees Union: The Provincial
Joshua Berson
Judges’ comments: “It's the perfect moment of both comradeship and posing. Looks like they finished a job. Nice natural light shot. Perfectly exposed.”
PHOTO ESSAY OR PHOTO GALLERY
Local Unions
FIRST AWARD
"Let the School Year Begin: Mostly Quiet Opening as Educators, Students Arrive"
United Federation of Teachers, AFT Local 2: New York Teacher/City Edition
Dave Saunders
Judges’ comments: "A fun collection of first-day-back-at-school photos that vividly conveys the excitement, hope and apprehension of students, parents and teachers."
***
SECOND AWARD
"Members at Work: Stater Bros. 46 Hemet”
UFCW Local 1167: Desert Edge
Bill Lathrop, President and Editor
Judges’ comments: "Usually, bulletin-board layouts like this don’t make the best photo galleries. But these photos are quite good, especially for being taken inside a supermarket. The best of them almost achieve portrait quality. The photographer clearly worked to put the members at ease, and it helps make a fine gallery. It would have been nice to mix in a few photos of workers actually stocking shelves, packing bags or cutting meat – but the entry nonetheless gets bonus points for highlighting real workers on the job."
***
International, National and Other Labor Organizations
FIRST AWARD
"Public Services Protect Our Communities: Thank You, Firefighters!"
BC Government & Service Employees Union: The Provincial
Chris Bradshaw; Joshua Berson
Judges’ comments: "At one glance, you get a clear idea what these folks do. The photos are exceptional; the layout is colorful, clean, simple, and serves the photos. Even though the photos are posed rather than candid, woods are still smoldering in the background, and the firefighters’ faces are still filled with the grime, fatigue and relief of another job taken care of."
***
SECOND AWARD
"Sludge Boat Sailors Keep Our Rivers Clean"
AFSCME District Council 37: Public Employee Press
Clarence Elie-Rivera
Judges’ comments: "A compelling display of on-the-job photos showing real members at work. The photographers worked hard to get good shots in tight quarters, and the layout only enhances the result. It’s too bad the choices include a gratuitous shot of the executive director."
***
THIRD AWARD
"Raising Our Hands in Strength and Solidarity"
NY State United Teachers: The New York Teacher
Andrew Watson, Photographer
Judges’ comments: "A creative concept that’s done effectively."
PUBLICATION DESIGN
Local Unions: Newspapers and Newsletters
FIRST AWARD
The Communiqué
CWA Local 1180
Margarita Aguilar
***
SECOND AWARD
UFCW 1428 Messenger
UFCW Local 1428
Connie M. Leyva, Editor and President
***
THIRD AWARD
Desert Edge
UFCW Local 1167
Bill Lathrop, President and Editor
Local Unions: Magazines
FIRST AWARD
UFCW 99 Report
UFCW Local 99
Jim McLaughlin, Editor
***
SECOND AWARD
Voice of Action
UFCW Local 8 Golden State
Jacques Loveall, Editor and President
***
THIRD AWARD
The Voice
United University Professions
Karen L. Mattison
***
Local Unions: Non-Periodicals
FIRST AWARD
Vote to Protect Our Health Benefits & Pension
L.A. City & County School Employees Union/SEIU 99
Hyun Yu, Graphic Designer
***
SECOND AWARD
Challenge. Struggle. Hope: SEIU Local 99 2009 in Review & Our Plan for 2010
L.A. City & County School Employees Union/SEIU 99
Blanca Galllegos, Editor; Hyun Yu, Graphic Designer
***
THIRD AWARD
Hacienda La Puente Unified School Board: Committed to Strong Schools & Good Jobs (postcard)
L.A. City & County School Employees Union/SEIU 99
Hyun Yu, Graphic Designer
No comments from judges.
International, National and Other Labor Organizations: Newspapers and Newsletters
FIRST AWARD
California Teacher
California Federation of Teachers
Kajun Design
Judges’ comments: "Great use of color, good, clean design and effective use of fonts, especially fonts used to call attention to various stories. The design is very easy on the eyes. Great type, leading, headlines. Not too many competing styles. While the cover was busy (lots of members at a rally), the photographer honed in on one member up front to draw the reader’s eye in. Very good use of direct eye contact."
***
SECOND AWARD
The Electrical Worker
International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers
Edwin D. Hill
Judges’ comments: "Good, clean design, nice use of color, photos and graphics. Nice big pictures in certain stories were very pleasing part of the design. And use of smaller photos worked well on News Brief pages. While we are not particularly partial to san sarif for a body type -- it’s generally hard to read an entire publication in san sarif -- it works here because of ragged right type and ample leading. We found the paper very easy to read, and the design compelled us to focus on what was important on each page."
***
International, National and Other Labor Organizations: Magazines
FIRST AWARD
AFSCME Works
American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees
Lisa Kelly
Judges’ comments: "While we were totally impressed by ASFCME’s new, redesigned magazine, especially the size and format, the issue that really stood out was the Obama inauguration. Big, clear, bold photos are used throughout, not cluttering up the design. Starting with the cover, excellent use of photo of Obama waving, with very interesting angle that allowed for good use of type on the cover. Overall we loved the color palette – the bright orange, pumpkin, lime, but some of it towards the back of the book, particularly the AFSCME green, was too much outside that color palate and a bit jarring. Again, great use of photos that conveyed the activism of the membership, without using too many small photos. The photo collage on page 12, "Working for a Win," was very good use of effective photography and placement without overdoing it."
***
International, National and Other Labor Organizations: Non-Periodicals
FIRST AWARD
Solidarity Center: Promoting Worker Rights Worldwide (Annual Report)
American Center for International Labor Solidarity (Solidarity Center)
Joan Seidman Welsh
Judges’ comments: "A very clean layout. Good use of white space. Typefaces are legible and complement each other. The color selections are unique. Photos are beautiful and well chosen. The subtle background images are interesting and add a visual texture to the page."
***
SECOND AWARD
Biking 100 Miles for Missing Kids
NY State United Teachers
Mark Sharer, Designer
Judges’ comments: "Great use of photos. The photograph that runs across the spread has such an interesting perspective and great imagery. Great typeface selections and the headlines tell a story on their own. Overall, very well done, interesting and readable layout."
***
THIRD AWARD
CPWR the Center for Construction Research and Training: Highlights 2008
CPWR:The Center for Construction Research and Training
Mary Watters, Writer and Editor; Ruth Burke Designs
Judges’ comments: "Nice layout overall. A little jumbled on some pages, but it has some really nice qualities. The typefaces used are complementary and very readable. The photos are well chosen overall and offer a visual relief from the text. The section heads and subheads clearly identify breaks but are not overly large. Tables and graphs are well illustrated. Colors are nice and work well together throughout the booklet."
COVER or FRONT PAGE
Local Unions: Newspapers and Newsletters
FIRST AWARD
Overture
AFM Local 47
Linda Rapka; Leslie Lashinsky
Judges’ comments: "We were impressed by this union's self-critical look at its own history of segregation as a cover story for Black History Month. The graphic design is also nicely done."
***
SECOND AWARD
The Union Mail
New York Metro Area Postal Union, APWU
Gary Schoichet, Concept; Bernadette Evangelist, Designer
Judges’ comments: "The story is intriguing, and the cover image is eye-catching and sleek."
***
THIRD AWARD
Clarion
PSC/CUNY, AFT 2334
Margarita Aguilar
Judges’ comments: "An important story illustrated with a great drawing, and the four other teasers and photo at the bottom of the page offer a wide range of coverage inside."
Local Unions: Magazines
FIRST AWARD
UFCW 99 Report
UFCW Local 99
Jim McLaughlin, Editor
Judges’ comments: "This is a great photo, shows the diversity of the union -- especially relevant in Arizona given all that's going on there, and offers two other interesting stories inside."
***
SECOND AWARD
The Voice
United University Professions
Karen L. Mattison
Judges’ comments: "Nice photo illustration and important topic to showcase."
***
THIRD AWARD
Editors Guild Magazine
Motion Picture Editors Guild, IATSE 700
Wm. Stetz, Art Director; Tomm Carroll, Editor; Gregory Schwartz, Photographer
Judges’ comments: "This is a fantastic image, although we would like it to be more clear whoStuart Bass is (presumably a member) and what his story is."
International, National and Other Labor Organizations: Newspapers and Newsletters
FIRST AWARD
District Lodge 141 Messenger
IAMAW District 141
Mike Mancini
Judges’ comments: "Fantastic image and great teasers, this cover would catch almost anyone's interest given all the frustration and confusion over what's going on with airlines."
***
SECOND AWARD
The New York Teacher
NY State United Teachers
Dana Fournier, Designer
Judges’ comments: "Nice photo illustration, eye-catching, good allusion to Obama ('audacity'). The four teasers at the bottom promise interesting and varied content."
***
THIRD AWARD
Public Employee Advocate
American Federation of Teachers
Kathy Walsh
Judges’ comments: "Nice illustration, important issue."
***
International, National and Other Labor Organizations: Magazines
FIRST AWARD
Our Life And Times
United Healthcare Workers East
J. J. Johnson, Editor
Judges’ comments: "Beautiful cover photo that promises an important and timely look back at the history of the union."
***
SECOND AWARD
AFSCME En Movimiento
American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees
Judges’ comments: "We're glad to see a Spanish-language publication. The graphic is fantastic and evokes Diego Rivera or other Mexican artistic traditions. The teasers promise a good overview of the growing role of Latinos in organized labor, both broadly and specifically."
***
THIRD AWARD
The Provincial
BC Government & Service Employees Union
Chris Bradshaw; Brian Gardiner
Judges’ comments: "Great photo. This is a nice reminder of the diversity of union jobs out there and the role they play in protecting our natural resources and common areas."
INFORMATIONAL GRAPHIC
Local Unions
FIRST AWARD
"He Just Doesn't Get It"
CSEA Inc.: The Work Force
Cathy Febraio
Judges’ comments: "Very creative way to show the flow of cause and effect. Good use of type, graphics and one-color challenge."
***
International, National and Other Labor Organizations
FIRST AWARD
"DC 37: Making History with Benefits for Our Members”
AFSCME District Council 37: Public Employee Press
James McCray
Judges’ comments: "Excellent use of space, organization, color and photos -- interesting and hip -- draws the audience in and clearly explains subject matter."
***
SECOND AWARD
"Best Place on Earth?"
BC Government & Service Employees Union: The Provincial
Murray Bush
Judges’ comments: "Creative and interesting -- excellent way to illustrate the problem; the whimsical style make me really want to read this."
CARTOON
Local Unions
FIRST AWARD
"Good Times Are Back"
COPE 378 Voice
Mike Bruce, Editor; Huw Evans, Artist
Judges’ comments: “Clear, timeless message delivered by excellent art work.”
“Profound, concise, timeless & universal. Makes a strong point without needing a caption.”
***
SECOND AWARD
"Wal-Mart Announces"
UFCW Local 324: U Magazine
Todd Conger, Editor; Chris Aubin, Artist
Judges’ comments: “Fine cartooning style, carries important labor message with smooth, concise writing.”
“Good use of irony. Laugh-out-loud funny.”
***
THIRD AWARD
"School Closing . . . Progress Report"
United Federation of Teachers, AFT Local 2: New York Teacher/City Edition
Nick Downes
Judges’ comments: “Good cartoon. Clear message.”
“A good depiction of the contradictions in a common sad-but-true situation.”
International, National and Other Labor Organizations
FIRST AWARD
"We Are Saved!"
BC Government & Service Employees Union: The Provincial
Dirk Van Stralen
Judges’ comments: “Stylish cartoon flows well to conclusion and a strong statement.”
“Good explanation of a current ‘catch-22’ situation.”
***
SECOND AWARD
"Banksters Win, Auto Workers Lose"
AFSCME District Council 37: Public Employee Press
Gene Suchma
Judges’ comments: “Lively cartoon, important message. ”
“Nicely explains Auto Industry bailout problem from the worker’s point of view.”
ILLUSTRATION
Local Unions
FIRST AWARD
"The Shame of Our City"
CWA Local 1180: The Communiqué
Warren Linn
Judges’ comments: "Advocacy art at its best. Exemplary use of collage, very evocative, powerful. This is the kind of art the labor press should aspire to."
***
SECOND AWARD
"No Contract, No Peace"
TWU Local 100: Transport Workers Bulletin
Noah Rodriguez
Judges’ comments: "This is a stunning photo illustration of New York Mayor Bloomberg stomping on transport workers and riders. Noah Rodriguez, a New York City subway driver, did this illustration. This a wonderful example of 'cartoon collage.' Dynamic fun-with-Photoshop. Proof that the most powerful art comes from worker artists who are close to the subject matter."
International, National and Other Labor Organizations
FIRST AWARD
"Labour Rights Are Human Rights"
BC Government & Service Employees Union: The Provincial
Chris Bradshaw
Judges’ comments: "Very clearly demonstrates message. Attractive, interesting visual, nice combination of photography and graphics, type is used appropriately and very legible."
***
SECOND AWARD
"Fighting for California's Future"
California Federation of Teachers: California Teacher
John Mattos
Judges’ comments: "Nicely stylized, visually appealing and appropriate usage."
***
THIRD AWARD
"Restoring Equality for America's Workers"
Bakery, Confection, Tobacco and Grain Millers International Union: BCTGM News
Michelle Hurt
Judges’ comments: "Great concept, love the unpolished feel and the 'less is more' approach. Appreciate the work that went into this - nice job!"
LABOR HISTORY STORY
Local Unions
FIRST AWARD
"Death of a Working Class Warrior"
New York Metro Area Postal Union, APWU: The Union Mail
Flo Summergrad
Judges’ comments: "The powerful lead grabs us by the collar. This woman who just died -- this textile worker who inspired a Hollywood movie -- 'lived and died a blue-collar woman and a warrior for the working class.' OK, you’ve got my attention! Now, tell me more. And the author doesn’t disappoint.
“She immediately describes the oppressive conditions faced by Crystal Lee Sutton and her fellow workers at J. P. Stevens: poverty-level pay; fingers chopped off by dangerous machinery; choking clouds of cotton dust, and a viciously anti-union employer. In direct, bold language supplemented by excellent quotes, we hear of the confrontations with management that led Sutton to climb on a table inside the mill and wave a handmade sign emblazoned with the word: UNION. Her act of defiance, captured by actress Sally Field in the film “Norma Rae,” became an iconic moment in modern labor history. J. P. Stevens fired Sutton, and she devoted the rest of life to union organizing.
“But we also learn of one final insult that will forever bind Sutton to the lives of working Americans. After years of paying her insurance premiums, she was diagnosed with brain cancer and was forced to spend two precious months battling her insurance company for the drugs she needed to survive. 'Her husband had to work two jobs' to pay for her care, and her fellow workers in the South collected money on her behalf. The cancer finally killed her.
"The article could have offered a bit more information about the historic national campaign against J. P. Stevens. It also might have helped to move her battle with brain cancer and the insurance company higher up in the story, or to highlight it with a pull quote. But this is quibbling. The author lets us know we have lost a genuine hero: Not someone different from us or 'above us,' but one of our own. In so doing, she challenges each of us to become 'a warrior for the working class.'"
***
SECOND AWARD
"Local 1445 - Proud Legacy of Labor History"
UFCW Local 1445 Union News
Jeff Bollen, Author; Linda Ferrazzara, Editor
Judges’ comments: "This was the only article by a local union that examined its own history, and it is a spirited, highly informative piece of work. The 1954-1955 strike against Colonial Provisions was, according to the author, the longest strike in Massachusetts history. More, he asserts, it was the only occasion when a Massachusetts union was decertified by the NLRB, continued to strike, became recertified, and scored a major contract victory.
“There are many complex twists and turns to this story, but the author is able to explain them all in clear, forceful prose. His pithy writing style adds to the essay's accessibility and appeal. It is also evident that he has done his research, thought hard about these events, and understands them well. This is the article’s real strength.
"There are wonderful scenes sprinkled throughout the story. Workers return from a lunchtime union meeting to find the plant gates blocked by armed guards. 'You're fired!’ yells the boss. 'Get out!' The company recruits African-Americans to break the strike of the largely Caucasian work force, but the union systematically reaches out to the black community to build support for the strike.
"This ambitious study would have been a lock for First Award but for a few, significant shortcomings. It is simply too long and detailed for a newsletter article. As written, it is better suited for a history book. There are also no citations to help readers who might have questions about the story or wish to learn more about the strike. Did the author interview participants? Did he dig through old newspapers or historical archives? We just don’t know. Finally, the writer uses the terms _strike_ and _lockout_ interchangeably and this is a bit confusing. Which was it, or was it both? When was it one or the other?
"Nevertheless, this is an impressive piece of work. We hope it will inspire more ILCA members to research their own local history and treat it with seriousness and respect, as this author has done."
***
THIRD AWARD
"1903 Oxnard Beet Sows the Seeds of Diversity"
UFCW Local 324: U Magazine
Todd Conger, Editor; Matthew Hart, Writer
Judges’ comments: "This article tackles, head-on, an ugly truth about organized labor: Our unions have often been indifferent towards -- or even hostile to -- non-white and immigrant workers. In smooth, easy language the author describes how, in 1903, rich California beet growers tried to pit Chinese, Mexican and Japanese workers against one another. He shows these workers overcoming their divisions to form a union so powerful they could face down lethal attacks by armed white farmers, strike, and wring important concessions from the growers.
"However, the readers also see AFL president Sam Gompers refusing to admit the newly formed union into the federation unless the workers agreed to expel their Japanese and Chinese members. The union flatly rejects Gomper's demand, writing: 'We are going to stand by the men who stood by us in the long, hard fight that ended in victory over the enemy.' But without AFL affiliation and support, the union soon disappears.
"The author points out that the AFL continued its racist membership policies for many decades -- policies, he notes, that badly undermined efforts to unionize the U.S. work force: 'Disunity along racial lines made it more difficult for workers to organize, keeping wages artificially low and rendering the workers powerless.'
"This otherwise strong article is undercut by a flat lead ('Cultural diversity is one of the modern Labor Movement's greatest strengths') and by headlines that don’t come close to conveying the great drama of the story. (The main head reads: '1903 Oxnard Beet Sows the Seeds of Diversity.' And the standing head reads, 'Yesterday's News.' Who wants that?) It is also not totally clear how the beet workers managed to win their strike in 1903.
"Despite these shortcomings, the author had the courage to seriously explore the history of racism within our unions. He produced an inspiring article about a determined group of workers who stood together and stood their ground."
International, National and Other Labor Organizations
FIRST AWARD
"'A Strike Like No Other Strike': Pittston Strike Holds Lessons for Today"
United Mine Workers of America: United Mine Workers Journal
David Kameras; Phil Smith
Judges’ comments: "This long article covers the 1989 strike in detail, and includes all the key elements in the event: the solidarity of the miners, the help from other unionized workers and those outside the labor movement, the support from the community, the use of tactics such as nonviolent opposition to the law and a brief sit-down strike, and the critical value of the strike fund. It places the event in the larger context of the 1980s, and shows clearly what happened afterwards. The text is accompanied by many photos from the period and of miners quoted in the piece. It is a model of how to write about a strike. The only weak point is that it does not describe the actual outcome."
***
SECOND AWARD
"Labor Saves New York: DC 37 Plays a Central Role in Helping the City Avert Bankruptcy"
AFSCME District Council 37: Public Employee Press
Gregory N. Heires
Judges’ comments: "The article is part 3 in a three-part series about turning points in the history of the union. It combines analysis and description to re-create the fiscal crisis in NYC in the 1970s. There are very fine photos to supplement the text. The article accurately states that the effort of the unions, with DC 37 as a central force, was essential to avoiding bankruptcy, and an even worse outcome for city employees. Yet it did not avoid all negative results. DC 37 and other unions did much to cushion the blows on their members even if they could not avoid all harm. This realistic portrayal is key to the value of the article."
***
THIRD AWARD (Shared)
"Thirty Years Ago, A Few Women Stepped Up, Changing Life Forever for Clerical Workers"
AFSCME Minnesota Council 5: Stepping Up
Michael Kuchta
Judges’ comments: "The short article is on a common theme: the formation of the union. What distinguishes it from less-effective pieces is the perceptive analysis. The article focuses on the needs of an organizing campaign among this group of workers, the resistance to it by some, but the quiet support that ultimately turned a moderate card campaign into a resounding victory in the subsequent collective bargaining election. The article captures the reality of hard organizing: the need to have committed leaders, who were able to relate to the prospective members; the persistence needed to reach scattered and often apathetic workers; and the ability to understand those workers and how they would respond in the end. Thus a seemingly conventional piece rises to a higher level of quality."
***
THIRD AWARD (Shared)
"Whatever Happened to Teacher Strikes?"
AFT Massachusetts: AFT Massachusetts Advocate
Jennifer C. Berkshire
Judges’ comments: "This short piece does an outstanding job of showing the complexity surrounding strikes by teachers in Massachusetts but, in the process, also speaks to the issue for all public employees and, to some extent, strikes in the private sector. It explores why strikes took place, even in the face of legal restraints, and why such actions have declined in the last 15 years. The article is a fine blend of analysis, apt quotations and description. It is remarkable that so short a piece could contain so much solid analysis and information."
LABOR HISTORY VIDEO
FIRST AWARD
Henry Miller: Father of the IBEW
International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers
Mark Brueggenjohann
Judges’ comments: "Fascinating, well-produced & concise." [Henry Miller's journey from electrical lineman to IBEW founder is chronicled in this video.]
Electronic Media
SHORT VIDEOS
Local Unions
FIRST AWARD
Walk a Day in My Shoes: Mark Steffen and Isidro Herrera
L.A. City & County School Employees Union/SEIU 99
Hyun Yu, Editor; Joseph Martinez, Photographer; Terry Carter, Writer
Judges’ comments: "Very good, clear message."
International, National and Other Labor Organizations
FIRST AWARD
Health Reform: Real People, Real Problems
International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers
Len Turner, Producer; John Sellman, Photographer
Judges’ comments: "Fine work, clear message, good worker interviews."
***
SECOND AWARD
Stand by Me - Don't Give Up (You Get What You Give)
IAMAW District 141
Mike Mancini
Judges’ comments: "Creative, great 'eye catcher.'"
***
THIRD AWARD
Building Big: Giants-Jets Stadium
International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers
Len Turner, Producer; John Sellman, Photographer
Judges’ comments: "Members working, talking; clear message."
LONG VIDEOS
Local Unions
FIRST AWARD
Take Back the Power
COPE Local 378
Sage Aaron, Producer
Judges’ comments: "Great use of recycled 50s aesthetic in color scheme and graphic design; sophisticated review of campaign strategy; liked the beaver suit; it moves along quickly, perhaps in conflict with depth of information."
***
SECOND AWARD
School Safety: My School Has Rhythm Not Violence
Teamsters Local 237
Steven C. F. Anderson
Judges’ comments: "Highlights role of school safety officers in community, stepping up to involvement beyond campus borders; video is pitch perfect; union's place in this is integrated without calling attention to itself."
***
THIRD AWARD
Leukemia
UFCW Local 175 CANADA
Emily Groom
Judges’ comments: "Appropriately straightforward presentation of difficult emotional subject; focus on individual family without bells and whistles is strongest argument, working family to viewer."
International, National and Other Labor Organizations
FIRST AWARD
TWU: Organize!
Transport Workers Union of America
Mary Matthews
Judges’ comments: "Unadorned organizing video; believable testimony from the workers; clearly focused on organizing task; are there no people of color working as flight attendants? Music should spot emphasize, not play throughout."
***
SECOND AWARD
U.S. Labor Education Delegation to Vietnam
University of Minnesota Labor Education Service
Howard Kling
Judges’ comments: "Powerful argument for cross-national trade union understanding; fine production values, crisp editing, perfect use of music to accent appropriately; the visuals are somewhat shooting fish in a barrel, but that's just part of the appeal of the video."
***
THIRD AWARD
LAID OFF!
International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers
Valana Reid, Editor; Deirdre Kaniewski, Producer; John Lett, Videographer
Judges’ comments: "Solid production values, strong story line, real insight into impact of recession on workers' lives of layoffs in aerospace."
VIDEO SPOTS/SHORT PROMOS
Local Unions
FIRST AWARD
Cocktail Party
CWA Local 1180
The Advance Group
Judges’ comments: "The message was very clear and reinforced by the visuals in a fun way. Very effective."
***
SECOND AWARD
Save SUNY Hospitals
United University Professions
Denyce Duncan Lacy, Editor
Judges’ comments: "Just a solid, pretty, well-shot spot with good info and pretty good impact. I didn't understand the final shot."
International, National and Other Labor Organizations
FIRST AWARD
Cut the Waste
NYS Public Employees Federation
Darcy Wells, Editor; Golden Lamb Productions
***
SECOND AWARD
Lawrence and Memorial Hospital
AFT Connecticut
Eric Bailey
***
THIRD AWARD
SAVEtheCIRCLE: Wal-Mart, World's Biggest Baby
UFCW Canada
Edit Parker
DOCUMENTARY/SOCIAL ISSUES
FIRST AWARD
A Human Rights Issue: Strike at Moncure
International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers
Valana Reid, Editor; Deirdre Kaniewski, Producer; John Lett, Videographer
Judges’ comments: "Very well produced piece -- good length, interviews and b-roll footage are well shot. The story is compelling and well told. It’s a format that is more journalistic than documentary. I would have liked to see a little more in-depth investigation about the 3 issues - (isn’t 60-hour work week illegal?) - why would the company want to deny seniority? (is there racism at play here?) etc. while perhaps a little less emotional/personal information. I think it is helpful to inform the viewer about the political side of the issues - the why? of the demands - to educate people to make informed choices and from that empathy for the strikers will come instead of playing the emotional card to get people to care.
“Would is be inappropriate to try to interview Mancure’s management?"
INTERNAL OR EXTERNAL ORGANIZING
FIRST AWARD
Mastering MySpace
International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers
Len Turner, Producer; John Sellman, Photographer
Judges’ comments: "High production values, great message, empowers individual members, cutting edge and concise."
***
SECOND AWARD
Out of Work But Still in Action
International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers
Len Turner, Producer; John Sellman, Photographer
Judges’ comments: "Encouraging, positive message, keeps attention."
LONG PROMOS/PUBLIC RELATIONS
Local Unions
FIRST AWARD
Word on the Street
UFCW Local 324
Todd Conger
Judges’ comments: "Strength is interactions with random interview on-the-street format to make its point about mixed consciousness regarding unionism and EFCA. Incessant throbbing music distracts."
International, National and Other Labor Organizations
FIRST AWARD
Union Plus Disability Grant
Union Privilege
Jon Ross; Jennifer Wright Dorr; Sun Mountain Media
EDUCATION AND TRAINING/K-12 EDUCATION
FIRST AWARD
Minneapolis Truckers Make History
University of Minnesota Labor Education Service
Deborah Rosenstein, Producer; Randy Croce, Current Camera and Editor
Judges’ comments: "Fascinating, great footage well-used, good general interest and keeps viewer interest. Terrific piece of work." [This program was designed for junior and senior high school students to teach what unions do to advance the rights and livelihoods of members, example: 1934 Minneapolis Truckers Strike. … The website URL containing this wealth of resources for teachers and students appears on the DVD face and case: www.minneapolis1934.org.]
***
SECOND AWARD
Telecommunications Code of Excellence
International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers
Jim Spellane and Mark Brueggenjohann, Producers; Spot Creative Media, Photographer/Editor
Judges’ comments: "No-nonsense, forward-looking, good message, well-produced."
AUDIO SPOTS
Local Unions
FIRST AWARD
Health Care Reform Now
UFCW Local 400
Bruce Kozarsky, Writer; Jim Cummins (Kelly Press), Producer; Jim Lowthers, UFCW 400 President and Executive Producer
Judges’ comments: "A very well-written, tight spot that grabbed the listeners’ attention from the start and encouraged action."
International, National and Other Labor Organizations
FIRST AWARD
IFT Primary Election Campaign
Illinois Federation of Teachers
Dave Comerford, Media Director
Judges’ comments: "Very supportive ad for the candidate getting teachers to identify with his background and voters to see him as a hard-working teacher."
LONG AUDIO PROGRAMS
Local Unions
FIRST AWARD
Communiqué Radio Show: Les Leopold: Financial Meltdown
CWA Local 1180
Esther Kaplan, Producer; Bill Henning, Host
Judges’ comments: "Les Leopold brought home the financial crisis."
***
SECOND AWARD
Communiqué Radio Show: M. Patricia Smith, New York State Department of Labor
CWA Local 1180
Esther Kaplan, Producer; Bill Henning, Host
Judges’ comments: "Well informed guest, well prepared."
***
THIRD AWARD
Communiqué Radio Show: Jerry Tucker
CWA Local 1180
Andrew Hsiao, Producer; Bill Henning, Host
Judges’ comments: "A good discussion of the failures of the Obama administration with regard to labor reform, very insightful to labor history. Negative messaging using right-wing terms like EFCA and Card Check."
International, National and Other Labor Organizations
FIRST AWARD
Inside Government: "Why Unions Matter"
American Federation of Government Employees
John C. Fornicola
Judges’ comments: "Very listenable presentation. Knowledgable discussion."
***
SECOND AWARD
American Federation of Government Employees
Inside Government: Patrick Kennedy, Maurice Hinchey, Peter Winch, Chad Harris
Jason C. Fornicola
Judges’ comments: "Excellent guests, informed, on topic and timely."
***
THIRD AWARD
Building Bridges Radio Show: Iraqi Labor Leaders Speak Out
Ken Nash & Mimi Rosenberg
Judges’ comments: "Insightful look into labor issues from Iraq, and eye opening."
vMULTIMEDIA CAMPAIGN
FIRST AWARD
United for Oregon March and Rally: "Quality Is Part of the Bargain"
SEIU Local 503
Judges’ comments: "The communicators here did everything possible to make this march a success, starting with their influence on the decision to move the event location to increase visibility and media coverage. They whetted interest with a steady stream of pre-march news releases and gave marchers the tools -- like imaginative chant and song sheets -- they needed to succeed."
***
SECOND AWARD
Set to Talk - Ready to Walk
IBEW Local 21
Judges’ comments: "Smart use of multiple forms of communication to reach members. Good targeted audience and pressure on AT&T where it could be felt. Amazing expansion of e-mail contact address list."
***
THIRD AWARD
"Lawrence & Memorial Hospital Strike"
AFT Connecticut
Judges’ comments: "Good mix of new media and traditional press, including an imaginative bit of community outreach via robocalls."
