AFTRA

Recognition of John Sandifer

07-CVR-10

Seattle Local Delegation (left to right): Chris Comte - Seattle Local Membership Director, Steve Reeder - Delegate, Karen O’Leary - Seattle National Board Member and Delegate, John Sandifer - Seattle Local Executive Director, Jim Forman - Seattle Delegate, David Natale - Seattle Delegate

Whereas, on August 14, 1972, as a cub reporter at KOMO in Seattle, John Sandifer joined AFTRA, launching a distinguished career as a journalist and labor leader which has spanned three and a half decades; and

Whereas, John was born in Texas and moved to Washington, where while attending Sedro-Woolley high school John became state wrestling champion preparing him well for all those heated bargaining sessions; and

Whereas, John went on to attend Washington State University, where his love of journalism was born; and

Whereas, John’s union leadership role started at Seattle’s KING Television, where he served on bargaining committees, and eventually as Shop Steward, and furthermore, wanting to protect the rights of all AFTRAns, John joined the board of the Seattle local, and went on to be its elected president; and

Whereas, on April Fool’s Day 1995, John entered a new phase in his life as a labor leader accepting appointment as executive director of the Seattle local; and

Whereas, during his tenure John has negotiated dozens of contracts with Northwest broadcasters and franchised agents, fighting for and winning better wages and working conditions; and

Whereas, as an advocate for all, John helped create the “Labor Neighbor” radio project, which brings attention to the issues facing union workers throughout the region; and

Whereas, after 35 years of service to his AFTRA brothers and sisters, John is ready to enter yet another phase of his life, retirement;

Now Therefore Be It Resolved, here at this, the 70th Anniversary National Convention, AFTRA recognizes the years of tireless service to his brothers and sisters; and

Be It Further Resolved, that here in Philadelphia, the members of AFTRA’s governing body join with John’s wife, four children and nine grandchildren in wishing John all the best in his retirement; and

Be It Finally Resolved, that our friend, John is hereby instructed by this body to stay in touch with his brothers and sisters and ordered to take his watercolors and brushes along as he travels in search of that perfect fishing spot.

Submitted by: Seattle delegation

Adopted 7/21/07