How the Contest Works 

The contest was open to any news report or photograph published or broadcast in 2000. There are separate categories for newspaper articles, photos, television news broadcasts and radio reports, as well as affiliate public relations projects, publications and web sites. All entries are submitted on behalf of the journalists by local IAFF affiliates. 
Judging for the contest was conducted by Marty Sonnenberg, videographer, and Bill Webb, Executive Director of the Congressional Fire Services Institute. 
First place award winners receive $500 and a plaque, and second place winners $250 and a citation. Honorable mention and special recognition awards receive certificates. In addition to improving the portrayal of fire fighters and raising the awareness of their issues, the contest is intended to foster better relations between IAFF affiliates and their local media.