A Note from Our Local Vice President

"To my SAG-AFTRA Local Brothers and Sisters: Get Involved!

"I would like to share a few thoughts, as we don’t always have time to cover everything within the confines of the general membership meeting. We are trying different avenues or venues where your questions can be brought out in the form of networking. I want to make you aware of a few benefits the local offers you. You can bring your questions and feedback to the next membership meeting coming up on June 4. 

"SAG-AFTRA is entering its fourth year since the merger and is growing stronger. I’m not being critical, but even with the merger doing well, we, as members, must continue to work as professionals on and off the set. You must get involved and be aware of the rules and regulations of our SAG-AFTRA Constitution, from the audition process to the actual job as a professional artist.

"The job market has stepped down here in San Diego as well as in other filming areas of California, because other states and countries lure production into their backyard through incentives to film. Let me assure you, SAG-AFTRA is constantly looking for solutions to bring production back to California. 

"We are fortunate here in San Diego that we are able to audition for work in the Hollywood area, as it is only a few hours away.

Local Board members Tom Wirth and Ruth Stehle.

"Since the last quarter of 2014, your San Diego board has initiated a monthly SAG-AFTRA membership mixer where members can congregate and talk shop and share job information. The mixer meets every third Tuesday of the month (check your email and just show up — no RSVP needed). Thanks to Casey Robinson for getting it going. The local also benefited from a SAG-AFTRA National Spanish Language Media Committee voiceover workshop in March, with a panel organized and moderated by Lorenzo Rodriguez, who is a member of the committee. I attended and found it very informative and educational. Make sure to check your email often to be aware of benefits available to local members, and be sure to attend the membership meeting on June 4.

"In closing, I want to remind you that this your union and the more you get involved, the more you will understand your rights and benefits — and it’s even possible your blood pressure will be lowered!"

This item was originally featured in the May 2015 local newsletter.