For Immediate Release Kim Spence, AWRT SoCal Chapter Public Relations Director 310.463.4201 Laura Behrman, AWRT SoCal Chapter President 818-569-3148

AWRT SoCAL Honors Women Reporters
on the Front Lines of the Recent Fires

AWRT SoCAL Honors Women Reporters on the Front Lines of the Recent Fires

September 23, 2009

"REPORTING LIVE FROM A FIRE ZONE" Sept 30., 6pm at the Andaz Hotel in West Hollywood

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to do your job from the front lines of a raging fire? What challenges would you face? What risks are involved?

The Southern California Chapter of American Women in Radio and Television (AWRT SoCal) announce its upcoming event “Reporting Live From A Fire Zone,” Wednesday, September 30 at 6pm at the Andaz Hotel in West Hollywood, honoring the amazing women reporters on the front lines of the recent fires.

“AWRT SoCal recognizes with appreciation the ongoing valiant efforts of the firefighters and first responders fighting the recent devastating fires in Southern California,” states Laura Behrman, AWRT SoCAL President. “And we also want to recognize and honor the brave women reporters who provide daily coverage of the fires from within the dangerous fire zones.”

Reporters, Shannon Farren and Hanna Scott from KFI AM 640, Claudia Peschiutta from KNX 1070 NEWSRADIO, and Kristine Lazar from KCBS/KCAL will be on-hand to share their experiences about what it’s like to cover a fire story from the front lines and the challenges they face to deliver real-time updates on the fire’s movement to the public in a timely manner, including evacuation notices, emergency shelter updates, and important road closure information.

“These amazing women are doing their jobs surrounded by incredible heat, smoke-filled air, and unpredictable winds,” states Behrman. “And the timely delivery of their updates on the fire’s progress saves lives.”

Maria Sanchez, Director of Development and Communications for the American Red Cross of Ventura County will also be on site to discuss what to do in case of a fire, and will serve as the panel moderator. AWRT SoCALs “Reporting Live From A Fire Zone” panel and networking event is free to the general public.

Donations will be accepted to support the Disaster Relief Funds of the American Red Cross. This will help people affected by disasters such as the Station fire as well as hurricanes and wildfires. For more information on how to donate to the Disaster Relief Fund, please contact your local American Red Cross chapter via www.redcross.org.

WHAT: “Reporting Live From A Fire Zone” Panel and Networking Event

WHO: Shannon Farren, Reporter, KFI AM 640 Hanna Scott, Reporter, KFI AM 640 Kristine Lazar, Freelance Reporter, KCBS/KCAL Claudia Peschiutta, Reporter, KNX 1070 NEWSRADIO Maria Sanchez, Director of Development and Communications, American Red Cross of Ventura County AWRT SoCal Board of Directors

More panelists added...
Wendy Burch,Reporter, KTLA
Jo Kwon, General Assignment Reporter, KABC 790

WHEN: Wednesday, September 30, 6pm – 8:00pm

WHERE: Studio 4 at the new Andaz Hotel on Sunset, 8401 West Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, CA 90069 - RH valet parking: $7.00 per car

PRICE: ADMISSION IS FREE. Donations will be accepted to support the Disaster Relief Funds of the American Red Cross.

About American Women in Radio & Television, Southern California Chapter:
The Southern California Chapter of American Women in Radio & Television (AWRT SoCal) is a non-profit membership organization for women and men who work in the electronic media and allied fields in Los Angeles, Orange, San Diego and Ventura counties. The Southern California Chapter of AWRT offers numerous local benefits to its members, including networking events, educational programs, community outreach, and career counseling. AWRT SoCal works to improve the quality of electronic media; promote the entry, development and advancement of women in the field; foster communication and idea exchange; and give back to the community it serves. (www.awrtsocal.org)

About AWRT SoCal Genii Awards:
For over 50 years, AWRT's Southern California Chapter has presented the highest honor AWRT SoCal bestows in the name of Chapter Founder, Jeanne Gray McDonald.

Genii honorees are recognized for their pioneering efforts, dedicated leadership, commitment to quality and excellence, and their community contributions. Saluting the notable achievements of excellence by individuals in the broadcasting industry, the Genii Awards benefit AWRT SoCal's scholarship fund, and educational programs.

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