Issue link: http://digital.copcomm.com/i/681774
SAGAFTRA.org | Spring 2016 | SAG-AFTRA 53 LOCAL BROADCAST LEADERS GATHER T he New England Local presented a daylong training for broadcast shop leaders at its office in Boston on Dec. 12. Attendees included station staff from across New England, representing both on- and off-air bargaining units as well as television and radio. Topics covered included the key role of shop leaders, duty of fair representation, Weingarten rights, grievances and arbitration. Attendees, whose time in the profession ranged from five to 40 years, shared their varying experiences and thoughts on being bargaining unit leaders. They noted that building relationships and maintaining open communication with unit members are key components of strong shop leadership. "The training offered timely and valuable information for our stewards," said Vic Ramos, a shop steward at WBZ-AM and broadcast vice president of the New England Local. "It provided a first-hand networking opportunity and information-sharing on issues and concerns specific to New England. Response from attendees has been extremely positive and, as a result, a follow-up session is in the works." New England SAG-AFTRA New England Local Executive Director Susan Nelson with members and staff. MEMBERS SEEK A LIVING WAGE AT KNBR T he newly organized unit at top-rated local sports radio station KNBR 680-AM, which includes on-air and off-air personnel, is stepping up efforts to win a fair first SAG-AFTRA contract. The group initiated an online petition at savelocalradio.org, calling upon KNBR's parent company, Cumulus Media, to pay living wages. Members recently distributed thousands of specially printed Giants schedules during KNBR's annual FanFest at AT&T Park, directing fans to the website. KNBR covers championship teams, including the Golden State Warriors and San Francisco Giants, so sports fans are shocked to learn KNBR pays its off-air staff, including producers and board operators, at or near the local minimum wage — currently $12.25 per hour. "We are working for one of the most successful radio stations in the most expensive housing market in the country," said KNBR sports broadcaster Ted Ramey. "And yet, we can't survive on what Cumulus pays us." Many of the passionate professionals who provide outstanding sports coverage are required to work multiple jobs to make ends meet. Please support these members by signing the online petition. BACK TO BASICS P roACT Conservatory in Dallas began the year with its popular Rusty Chops – Back to Basics workshop for members on Feb. 22. Panelists Sharon Garrison, Reis Myers McCormick, Jack O'Donnell, John Kolinofsky and moderator Shalitras Flowers welcomed a full house in the expanded Dallas-Fort Worth Local conference room. Panelists discussed actor confidence, basic skills, changing technologies and industry expansion with seasoned professionals. Dallas-Ft. Worth Members at the Rusty Chops event on Feb 22. San Francisco- NorCal Members at Giants FanFest preparing to hand out leaflets. CHEER AT HOLIDAY MIXER SAG-AFTRA members gather at Tommy Rocker's Mojave Beach Bar & Grill on Dec. 8 for the Nevada Member Holiday Mixer. The annual event brings together members, pre- members and others working in the industry. Nevada