Mixing at the MIX

The Arizona-Utah Local Organizing Committee presented a first-of-its-kind event, 10 Things We Love About SAG-AFTRA and Why We Invite You to Join Us, on Nov. 8 at the Arizona State University MIX (Media and Immersive eXperience) Center for non-union actors and ASU students.

The purpose was to share the benefits of union membership, answer questions about joining, and give pre-members a chance to meet and hear from local members who have worked extensively in our market.

Attendees noshed and mingled before and after the presentation, which began with testimonials from local high-profile members, agents and a casting director via video, all sharing what being a member of SAG-AFTRA means to them. 

Arizona-Utah Local President Amanda Melby spoke about the importance of union membership and solidarity. Local Executive Director Lisha Brock gave an introduction to SAG-AFTRA and explained how to join. The audience of nearly 40 was engaged, asking many questions and expressing gratitude for the information. Two performers became new members that evening and were extended a special warm welcome in-person along with a SAG-AFTRA T-shirt! And two more joined days later.

This successful event couldn’t have happened without the involvement of numerous members who we want to thank for volunteering their time and leadership. Melby and Board member Joe Corcoran helped set up the event. Members Judy Carmen Gonzalez and Thomas Heimdal greeted and directed attendees to the meeting room.  Board members Sandy Kim and Jeff Unterkofler checked in guests, and members Sheridan Leatherbury, Bruce Nelson, and Jennifer Pfalzgraff ­­­­­­­­­­­­­made sure attendees had food and beverages. 

Thanks also to staff, local members and industry colleagues who helped spread the word about this important and fun organizing event. And special thanks to the ASU MIX Center staff for helping ensure the event ran smoothly. 

Through our continued collective efforts, we can grow our membership, strengthen the union and expand professionalism throughout Arizona and Utah.

Top photo: Attendees watch the SAG-AFTRA presentation at the Arizona State University MIX Center on Nov. 8. Photo by Joe Corcoran.