Issue link: http://digital.copcomm.com/i/1251534
83 SAG-AFTRA | Spring 2020 | sagaftra.org Michigan Local Board Starts Anew M embers of the newly seated Michigan Local Board held their first Local Board retreat on Sept. 19 in Birmingham, Michigan. The daylong retreat served as the perfect opportunity for seasoned and new board members alike to get to know one another before delving into their plans for the local over the next two years. Among issues discussed were outreach and training initiatives for broadcasters, new conservatory events, and effective ways to organize work under the union's Commercials and Corporate/Educational contracts. ● A Titan Takes on Tax Incentives T ennessee Titans legendary running back and SAG-AFTRA member Eddie George stopped by the Nashville Local office in February to lend his voice to efforts to increase state film incentives. Since retiring from football, the former Heisman Trophy winner and member of the College Football Hall of Fame has focused on his rapidly expanding acting resume. In 2016, George appeared on Broadway as the hustling lawyer Billy Flynn in Chicago, and in addition to being a network television host and commentator, has also had roles on Magnum P. I., NCIS: Los Angeles and Shooter. ● From left, Nashville Local Executive Director Richard Van Syckle, member — and Heisman Trophy winner — Eddie George and Nashville Local President Mike Montgomery. M embers of the Ohio-Pittsburgh Local gathered for the annual Labor Day parade and picnic in Pittsburgh on Sept. 2. They were joined in solidarity with friends from Actors' Equity and celebrated what it means to be a part of a union. Local actors and broadcasters also performed in the Off the Record XIX: Heaven Help Us! show on Oct. 3. This musical satire makes a tradition of lampooning Pittsburgh news and newsmakers each year, with show proceeds going to the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank. The local also enjoyed three SAG Award viewing parties this year, with more than 100 members celebrating at The Foundry in Pittsburgh, Shula's in Cleveland and The Gateway Film Center in Columbus. ● Nashville Parade, Show and Parties SAG-AFTRA anchors Ken Rice (KDKA-TV) and David Johnson (WPXI-TV) ham it up during Off the Record XIX on Oct. 3. The SAG-AFTRA Michigan Local Board and staff are energized during their first board retreat in Birmingham. Michigan Ohio- Pittsburgh