SAG-AFTRA

Fall 2017

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SAGAFTRA.org | Summer/Fall 2017 | SAG-AFTRA 7 A Letter from the Secretary-Treasurer J A N E A U S T I N Dear Member, B efore I begin, I must acknowledge the passing of my colleague, fellow National Board member and friend, New York President Mike Hodge. Mike had an undeniable fervor for performer advocacy and unionism that fueled his work. Since 2001, he served as a National Board member and then, in 2009, was elected ew ork president, an ofce he held until his death. Mike was passionate about merger and acted as a crucial voice of solidarity. He was held in the highest esteem by all who knew him and will be greatly missed. Mike's accomplishments set a high standard for those who dedicate their service to our union. Having said that, it is with gratitude and enthusiasm that I write this message to you. Thank you very much for your vote to re-elect me as your SAG-AFTRA secretary-treasurer. Amusingly enough, I received the notice while grocery shopping and, needless to say, everyone in the dairy aisle was suddenly aware of my elation. I ran for ofce so that could continue to help guide our union to success, and your condence in my capabilities has honored and humbled me. It is my privilege to serve, and I pledge to remain committed to all members and our union. My sincerest congratulations to SAG-AFTRA President Gabrielle Carteris and all of my colleagues elected to serve our 25 locals across the country. I look forward to continuing to strengthen the union with you. A special congratulations and thanks to all of my fellow members who ran. Membership involvement is key to making our union strong, and volunteering for elected ofce is one of the most seless acts one can do. I feel compelled to acknowledge the recent ratication of the new TV/Theatrical Contracts. In all honesty, I admit that I was disappointed with the low voter turnout as well as select elements of the new deal. However, I wish to express gratitude to all who did vote and congratulate the members who are positively affected by this new contract. ow that it has been ratied, urge everyone again to stand united so that we may move forward together and stronger. It is with pride that I share all the positive news regarding the union's scal position. n all eight uarters of my previous term, we consistently ran above budget in our income and below budget in our expenses, resulting in record surpluses. Additionally, the union's investment portfolio continues to grow, adding to our reserves. Looking forward, we continue to bolster enforcement and explore greater efciencies. e have already made notable progress with the launch of our new Contact Center, which is lled with dedicated staff who are eager to help, and the mobile app. If you have not yet downloaded the app, I encourage you to do so; you will have critical information at your ngertips. Members may rest assured knowing that the union continues to thrive. I implore you, as we advance into our convention and the coming year, to proceed with kindness and collaboration. Remember, we are the union, which means little if we are not unied it is only in unity that we have strength. Congratulations again to our newly elected and re-elected ofcials, and thank you to my enthusiastic colleagues and our diligent staff. In unity, Jane Austin "Now that elections have passed and members have spoken, it is our obligation to stand together as a united front and move forward."

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