Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1542690
6 • THE ARTISAN SPRING 2026 continue to be important for our Local. Attending union meetings, conventions, and training has helped us better understand the goals of IATSE and how they connect to our Local. ese goals include long-term stability, fairness, inclusion, and building strength across all locals. e knowledge gained through this work helps us better serve you every day. Another major focus has been on improving how our office operates. Over the past year, we have worked hard to update our systems and organize our space so that we can better serve the membership. Our new website is now live and will continue to grow and improve. We have also made changes to our billing systems to create a more reliable and efficient process. ese updates may not always be visible, but they make a real difference in how smoothly the Local runs. If you have not visited the office recently, I encourage you to do so. While there is still work to be done, it already feels like a welcoming space that reflects who we are as a Local. Many people contributed their time, skills, and creativity to make this possible, and their efforts are deeply appreciated. I want to take a moment to thank those who work tirelessly on behalf of our members. President Julie Socash, Secretary- Treasurer Leslie Devlin, non-roster ABR Patrice Madrigal, roster ABR Jani Kleinbard, and our dedicated office staff—Linda Flores, Susana Chriscoe, and Christie Gersten all play an important role in keeping this Local running strong. eir commitment and hard work do not go unnoticed. As we begin this new year, I remain hopeful and confident in what we can accomplish together. By staying informed, involved, and united, we can continue to protect our work, support one another, and strengthen our union for future generations. ank you again for allowing me to serve you. I look forward to continuing this work with you in 2026. In solidarity, Cheryl Eckert Dear brothers, sisters, and kin, As we begin 2026, I want to take time to thank each of you for your support and trust. It is an honor to ser ve as your Business Representative, and I am proud of the work we continue to do together as members of Local 706. Our union is strong when we stand united, and the past year showed just how important that unity is. is past year brought challenges that affected many of our members and their families. e fires were especially difficult, and many people are still working to rebuild their lives. During this time, we saw how important it is to care for one another. e Walsh/DiTolla/Spivak Foundation played a major role in helping the fire victim members in need. ese moments remind us that our union is more than just contracts and jobs: it is about people. As we move forward into 2026, we do so with progress and renewed focus. One of our main goals continues to be bringing more work back to our industry. Over the past year, we traveled to Sacramento to speak directly with lawmakers about tax incentives that help keep productions working in our state. Because of this effort and persistence, we are already seeing signs of improvement. is work will continue, and we will remain committed to protecting jobs and creating opportunities for our members. Contract negotiations will also remain a top priority in the year ahead. Many members, especially in the "live" industry, have worked for years without updated agreements. is is not acceptable, and we are committed to fighting for fair wages, safer working conditions, and clear contracts that reflect the value of your work. Every conversation at the bargaining table is guided by member input, and your voices truly matter. Education and leadership development LOCAL PERSPECTIVE by Cheryl Eckert Business Representative, I.A.T.S.E. Local 706 Cyl E Cyl E e r t Managing Editor Adam Brandy Contributing Writers Brenda Blatt Rebecca Lee Castro Yunea Cruz Alexei Dmitriew Cheryl Eckert Lois Harriman Thomas Richards-Keyes Adruitha Lee Therese LeVasseur Patrice K. Madrigal Julie Socash Vincent Van Dyke Ally Vickers Lisa Ruth Zomer Publisher IngleDodd Media Office & Mailing List Manager Linda Flores The Artisan is published quarterly by Make-Up Artists & Hair Stylists, I.A.T.S.E. Local 706, 828 No. Hollywood Way, Burbank, CA 91505 Phone (818) 295-3933 Fax (818) 295-3930 All editorial and photo submissions should be sent to email address: hllywdmkupartist@yahoo.com To update member information, email to: dispatch@ialocal706.org Advertising: IngleDodd Media (310) 207-4410 muahs@IngleDodd.com www.IngleDoddMedia.com Officers of I.A.T.S.E. Local 706 President Julie Socash Vice President Elena Arroy Recording Secretary Porshawna Mosely Secretary-Treasurer Leslie Devlin Sergeant-at-Arms Sherrita Cole Business Representative Cheryl Eckert Official Magazine of Hollywood Make-Up Artists & Hair Stylists. Published in the Interest of ALL the Members of Make-Up Artists & Hair Stylists I.A.T.S.E. Local 706