Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1475555
56 SAG-AFTRA | Summer 2022 | sagaftra.org Saying Hi to the GIs San Diego Local President Martin Alvillar, left, and San Diego Local Board member Lorenzo Rodriguez attend the 2022 GI Film Festival San Diego, which took place in May. The festival is a showcase of films for, by and about military and veteran experiences. The two leaders were there to let veterans know that SAG-AFTRA supports them and thanks them for telling their stories. ● San Diego Members Rise in Phoenix A rizona-Utah Local members represented SAG-AFTRA at the annual Phoenix Film Festival Industry Night on April 1. They spoke with filmmakers, members and potential members about SAG-AFTRA contracts and the benefits of membership. Local Board member Jennifer Pfalzgraff said, "I always love being at the Phoenix Film Festival! Anyone serious about filmmaking and acting in Phoenix should make it here for networking. I was impressed with the filmmakers coming to us for information because they want to use our members, but don't know the process or are afraid of the rumors of paperwork. They know SAG-AFTRA members are professionals that elevate their projects. I am excited to support indie filmmakers in their endeavors as a proud SAG-AFTRA member." Thanks to all the member volunteers who were rounded up by Arizona-Utah Local President Joe Corcoran. If you would like to get involved locally or know a producer in Arizona or Utah needing information about our contracts, please email azut@sagaftra.org. ● Local Board member Jennifer Pfalzgraff speaks to an attendee at the Phoenix Film Festival Industry Night on April 1 JOE CORCORAN Arizona- Utah Members Make Connections at Diversity in Film Event O n April 2 at the Roxbury Branch of the Boston Public Library, the Secret Society of Black Creatives presented The Konnect: Diversity in Film. SSBC's networking event invited participants to explore their transferable skills and learn about working in the film and television industry in Massachusetts from local IATSE crew and SAG-AFTRA members. Attendees gathered for an open welcome from Massachusetts Film Office Director Lisa Strout, as well as staff from IATSE, SAG-AFTRA, SSBC and the Roxbury International Film Festival. Breakout sessions followed, led by locally based working professionals. Sessions covered set construction, hair and makeup, production office coordination, wardrobe, set lighting and grips, set decoration, props and acting. Local SAG-AFTRA members Naheem Garcia, David Curtis and New England Local President Andrea Lyman met with a group of more than 50 attendees interested in learning about acting, the benefits of SAG-AFTRA membership and the growing industry in Massachusetts. SSBC's mission is to promote and empower Black filmmakers through networking, education, advocacy and job referrals. ● New England From left, David Curtis, Naheem Garcia and New England Local President Andrea Lyman HELDER SOUSA