Issue link: http://digital.copcomm.com/i/1257029
42 On September 15 this year, Local 695 celebrates ninety years since receiving its Charter as a Local Union in the IATSE. In those ninety years, the membership has experienced dramatic periods of industry growth and contraction, with the latter putting strains on our membership during the tough times of natural disasters, fi nancial disasters, and international wars. But nothing compares to this global health crises and the complete industry shutdown that it caused. Adapting TO A NEW REALITY by Laurence B. Abrams Events are evolving quickly, and we know there's still a long road ahead. But we're confi dent that the picture will be getting better for everyone and we want to fi ll you in on some of what the Local has been working on. In the days preceding Gov. Newsom's and Mayor Garcetti's stay-at-home orders back in March, the Local 695 offi ce staff had already completed preparations for the changes we saw ahead. By the time we were forced to close the offi ce, all software and training were in place to seamlessly enable a fully functioning off-site working environment with remote desktop access and teleconferencing for the entire staff. Without interruption, the unusually high volume of phone calls and emails from members continued to fl ow as usual. Maureen, Casey, Cindy, Linda, and the rest of the 695 staff had full access to all software and data needed to run the Local, and all member inquiries and issues were promptly handled. Offi ce Meeting 2020 Top: Casey Weiss, Maureen Lara, Joe Aredas. Middle: Scott Bernard, Linda Skinner, Heidi Nakamura. Bottom: Cindy Vivar, Laurence Abrams