Issue link: http://digital.copcomm.com/i/1186820
94 SAG-AFTRA | Fall 2019 | sagaftra.org On Location TONY AWARDS VIEWING PARTY BENEFITS DENVER ACTORS FUND O n June 9, members of the SAG-AFTRA Colorado Local met at the Cap City Tavern, a local Denver hangout for performers, to watch the annual Tony Awards. The evening was co- sponsored by SAG-AFTRA, Actors' Equity Association and the Colorado Theatre Guild. Attendees enjoyed each other's company, completed ballots to keep track of the winners and had the opportunity to win door prizes. All proceeds from the event, as well as a portion of the evening's food and beverage purchases, were donated to the Denver Actors Fund by Cap City Tavern. The Colorado Theatre Guild encourages growth and excellence in live theater in Colorado by creating connections within the theater community and providing supporting programs and services in education, advocacy and promotion to patrons, producers and artists. The Denver Actors Fund is a source of financial relief and neighborly assistance when members of the Colorado theater community find themselves in medical need. Colorado From left, Abner Genece, Jayden Genece, Jason Henning, SAG-AFTRA National Board member Sheila Ivy Traister, AEA Denver Chairman Clay Blackwell, SAG-AFTRA Colorado Local President T. David Rutherford, then-Colorado Theatre Guild Treasurer Kaye Moss and Colorado Theatre Guild President Reece Livingstone. MICHAEL ENSMINGER PHOTOGRAPHY SAG-AFTRA SUPPORTS FILM COALITION O n May 20, board members from the Arizona-Utah Local presented a check on behalf of SAG-AFTRA to Ken George, president of the Arizona Film & Media Coalition. The funds are to support the organization's ongoing efforts to increase film and digital media production in the state through legislative action, education and public relations. Members who want to see more work in Arizona are encouraged to stay informed and watch their inbox for any call to action that might be needed. With approximately 1,000 members in the state, the power of our collective voice can be heard loud and clear, just as when we band together as sisters and brothers for other union causes. LOCAL CONNECTS WITH INDIE FILMMAKERS A foundation of the Portland Local's effort to increase union density in the Pacific Northwest is outreach to the producers who employ members. This year, part of that outreach included sponsoring Portland's 48 Hour Film Project, an annual competition that challenges local filmmakers to complete a short film in 48 hours. "The 48 Hour Film Project is the perfect opportunity to show local filmmakers how easy it is to use our contracts and work with our members," said Portland Local President Michelle Damis. "It's collaborative, creative and creates strong relationships in our market. It's a great match!" Local Board members were on hand to answer questions about the union and guide competitors on the process. The local also hosted the project's closing night party, which brought local members together with producers and directors. Arizona-Utah Local Board member Rodd Wolff, left, and National Board member Margie Ghigo, right, present a check to AFMC President Ken George. NANCY HALL AND EARL SMITH Local President Michelle Damis, right, and 48 Hour Film Project Producer Rob Hatch at Portland's kickoff event. HAROLD PHILLIPS Portland