These have been challenging times for many of us, with the recent loss of several long-time Washington-Mid Atlantic Local members.
Pete Medhurst, the voice of Navy football and a true son of Maryland, passed. Known for his iconic play-by-play announcing in football and other sports, Medhurst’s career included WBAL NewsRadio 1090 and the FM 101.5 team and the WBAL Ravens Broadcast team.
WTOP evening anchor Dimitri Sotis died suddenly at age 55. Sotis’ warm voice was a staple in the Washington region for more than two decades. He not only commanded the airwaves but was also a beloved leader within the newsroom and great supporter of our union.
Long-time reporter Dr. Tim Tooten has also passed. Tooten worked in West Virginia and Washington, D.C., before joining WBAL-TV 11 in Baltimore in 1988. Known for his fun hats and personable delivery, Tooten’s education reporting was trusted for more than 30 years before his retirement.
Our thoughts and prayers are with all of their families, friends and colleagues during this difficult time.
The tragic midair collision near Reagan National Airport claimed the lives of members of some of our sibling unions and devastated our region. Our own Washington-Mid Atlantic broadcasters covered the horrible aftermath with tireless compassion and professionalism, and their work continues. Please keep them in your thoughts as they do this difficult work. We extend our heartfelt condolences and prayers for the departed.
As we continue to remember our fallen colleagues and citizens, it is also a time to heal and come together as a union. Please join us for the 31st Annual SAG Awards viewing this Sunday. The Washington-Mid Atlantic Local will be hosting a party at Mustang Sally Brewing Company in Chantilly, Virginia. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and the awards show starts at 8 p.m. It’s going to be a fantastic evening to gather with your fellow union members. Each member is welcome to bring a guest! Let’s come together, enjoy the night and cheer on the incredible talent in our community. The party is free and all attendees will be given a drink ticket. We can’t wait to see you there! The deadline to RSVP is Friday at 5 p.m. Use this link to RSVP.
Broadcasters, please join us March 27, 2025, 7–8 p.m. ET for a virtual presentation with SAG-AFTRA’s very own Chief Broadcast Officer Mary Cavallaro on negotiating a broadcast personal service contract and a review of key contract provisions. Check your emails for registration details from Local staff to each shop.
California continues to deal with the destruction left in the wake of the fires, and members of our own Local in North Carolina and parts of Virginia continue to rebuild after the devastation of the hurricane. Remember the SAG-AFTRA Foundation Disaster Relief Fund as both a resource and a place to donate and help others.
Everyone, please enjoy the benefits that we have fought for, and take comfort in your union membership!
In solidarity,
Tracee Wilkins
SAG-AFTRA Washington-Mid Atlantic Local President
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