A Message From Twin Cities Local President Casey E. Lewis

Dear Members,

Winter is officially upon us in the Twin Cities. I hope all members in the Dakotas and Minnesota are managing and enjoying the season wherever they are and however they celebrate.

I also hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving and your preparations for the holidays are going well.

The first winter storm of the year coincided with our Vocal Variables for Broadcasters and Performers event on Nov. 20, at St. Paul Neighborhood Network. That did not stop local members, who came from all over the metro and one from Rochester to hear the information voice professional Mira Kehoe had to share. Members with varying levels of voice experience and different goals in their broadcast and performer professional pursuits were given instruction in warmup techniques, exercises, and tips on vocal care that left everyone energized and appreciative. Afterwards, some of us went over to Lake Monster Brewing Co. for some social time.

 

A group of smiling people, many wearing winter coats, hats and scarves pose for a photograph in a well-lit room.
A group of SAG-AFTRA members gathers around instructor Mira Kehoe, third from right, at the conclusion of her most recent conservatory workshop.

In October I shared that WCCO-TV ratified their new contract. This week, members of the shop and a few Local Board members gathered at the Local in downtown Minneapolis to celebrate the win with drinks and appetizers. It is always good for Local Board and other members to spend time with our broadcast siblings, getting the chance to know them and the work they do as fellow SAG-AFTRA members, and sharing with them what life is like as an actor/performer. I’m looking forward to more of these opportunities in 2025!

A group of smiling people, some seated on couches and chairs, some standing, smile as they pose for a photograph in a room with dark wood paneling.
SAG-AFTRA broadcast members at WCCO-TV and members of the Twin Cities Local Board gather to celebrate the recent ratification of their new contract.

One of those opportunities is a few months away, with the live broadcast of the annual SAG Awards. Our Local SAG Awards Committee has begun preparation for our SAG Awards watch party. The awards broadcast is Sunday, Feb. 23, at 7 p.m. CT. We have narrowed down possible locations. Expect a formal announcement in January. For now, save the date, with our gathering starting around 6 p.m. All members are welcome . We do not view this as “performers watching other performers get awards.” This is one of our biggest opportunities for all Twin Cities Local members to come together. There will be delicious food and beverage, and a whole lot of solidarity for everyone.

At this time of year, no matter how you celebrate, I hope your time is happy, healthy, warm and spent with those who are special to you.

Happy holidays—and have a great New Year!

In solidarity,

Casey E. Lewis

Twin Cities Local President

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