Issue link: http://digital.copcomm.com/i/716514
42 SAG-AFTRA | Summer 2016 | SAGAFTRA.org On Location MIAMI LOCAL CONSERVATORY KICKS OFF Pamela Frazier, fourth from left, helps members fine-tune their auditioning skills at a casting workshop on June 18 in Miami. 'BE THE WATER' T he New Mexico Local was privileged to host Vice President, Recording Artists Dan Navarro, both at the annual Albuquerque Film & Music Experience festival and the spring general membership meeting in April. These events gave the film, television, voiceover and music communities the opportunity to hear and absorb Navarro's enthusiasm and experience in two intimate settings over the April 23–24 weekend. Navarro invigorated many of the attendees, motivating them to pursue work and opportunities in the world of voiceover and music. He talked about the ease with which voiceover work can be produced through the use of the latest, inexpensive technology — no matter where you are in the world. When asked how to create and maintain a career in the business, Navarro advised, "Be the water." In other words, be fluid and open. Keep your eyes and ears open to every possible opportunity around you and be flexible and ready to try new things. MEMBERS VOLUNTEER FOR SERVICE DAY M embers of the SAG-AFTRA Portland Local helped volunteers and staff process several tons of cabbage, potatoes and apples for their state's hungriest and food insecure residents at the Oregon Food Bank on June 4, their annual Service Day. Portland Local President Duane Hanson noted, "We get a wonderful feeling whenever our local can give back to our community. Additionally, OFB provides a unique opportunity for team-building among local membership. A win-win situation. Plus, we always meet folks curious about our union and we are happy to educate them about the many benefits of organized labor." This was the Portland Local's third successful year for the outreach event. Portland SAG-AFTRA Portland Local members, from left, Neil Shah, Harold Phillips, Portland Local President Duane Hanson, Cyndi Rhoades, Pat Lach, Steve Pitzel and Ron Barnes have a great time while serving the community. Miami From left, New Mexico Local President Tom Schuch; Regional Education & Outreach Liaison Cynthia Williams; National Board member Mel MacKaron; Vice President, Recording Artists Dan Navarro; and New Mexico Second Vice President Cliff Gravel. New Mexico T he Miami Local Conservatory season began with a casting workshop on June 18 featuring Pamela Frazier, talent booking director for Walt Disney Parks and Resorts. At the three-hour workshop at the Just The Funny Theater in Miami, Frazier gave pointers on best practices for auditions. The event concluded with a scene study session. The event was a huge hit with attendees. One commented, "This was the best workshop I have participated in, and I have been to many of them." And there's some good news for members in Orlando: Frazier has agreed to do a workshop there in the future.