Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/756468
76 CINEMONTAGE / Q4 2016 76 CINEMONTAGE / Q4 2016 of Local 683, helping them adapt to the digital retooling of industry labs and enhancing the Union's strength and stature. Asked how he would describe the Guild in 2016, Kutak said, "The Guild today is strong, dedicated, smart, with a proper eye to the future most all of the time." Members might use these words to describe the Executive Director himself. By respecting the rights and needs of the membership as artists and craftspeople whose work is crucial to the industry, he earned their respect as well. Guild unity is maintained through consistent achievement of consensus in the best interests of the Organization. This requires communication among equals, as he will tell you, "through good faith debate, research, practical analysis, and compromise." Judging by the comments of his co-workers, Kutak appears to apply the same principles in the Guild offices, where he is a popular boss who has built a long-tenured, diverse and cohesive staff with whom he can enjoy the spirited give-and-take of discussion and debate, one of his avocations. During the weekend of August 5-7, at the IATSE's District 2 meeting of delegates in San Diego, Michael Miller, IATSE International Vice President and Department Director, Motion Picture & TV Production, formally acknowledged Kutak's long service and achievements. Before his official retirement, the Editors Guild commemorated his 35 years of service with a Gala Celebration in downtown Los Angeles, on September 17. The following day, the Motion Picture Sound Editors held its 8th Annual Golf and Poker Tournament, co-sponsored by the Cinema Audio Society, at the Angeles National Golf Course. Kutak served as Honorary Chair. Daughter Hallie Kutak, left, with Ron and his wife, Julie Yanow. And the family favorite, Gracie!