...Thanks to all that attended the September 23rd meeting; your concern for the progress of Local 655 is what makes it all worth it. By your many encouraging comments, I believe we're on the right track and making substantial progress. That's not to say we haven't had criticism, but we will try to make necessary adjustments to improve the service you're getting…My personal thanks for re-electing me as President. I am pleased to be able to follow through on the numerous projects we've begun, and to see the fruits of our labor. I want to thank Stuart MacDonald for his service and at the same time welcome Tim Barnes as our newest Executive Board member…
Pension Benefits, Anyone?
We'll continue our efforts to get leaders to file more contracts. The pension benefit alone should compel everyone to file. We're here to help minimize the paperwork-just ask the numerous members that have started to file contracts. And it's YOUR retirement dollars we're talking about. Also, I was extremely pleased that we were able to assist a long time AFM member, friend, and colleague on the Jackie Gleason television series, Nick Russo, who had fallen through the cracks. We were able to help secure a substantial amount of money for he and his wife that will help him enjoy his retirement even more…
MPTF
Requests for MPTF jobs have cooled off a bit; there's money there if you just get out and create some interest with potential clients. Our local schools, cities, and municipalities are prime targets for co-funding. Create some work for yourself!
Liability and Health Insurance
Liability insurance has become more and more of a problem with many of our venues. In the past, it was possible to do a full payroll through Paymasters or Star Entertainment and get a certificate of Worker's Compensation and Employers' Liability Insurance that would satisfy the venues. Now that those companies are no longer in business, we are looking into various other solutions. We'll keep you posted on our progress…If you're interested in health insurance, please mark your calendars for the December meeting. We’ve invited two speakers to discuss the issues involved with the new plan being made available to our members through Cultural Community Health Care Co-op, in coordination with Miami-Dade Cultural Affairs Council…
Domingo/Telemundo 1990 Taping
To those who were involved in the videotaping at the Miami Arena in 1990, know that the AFM, with our assistance, is pursuing approximately $100,000.00 in wages on your behalf. Again we'll keep you updated…
New Scales
There are a number of brand new items in there, so please look them over very carefully and don't be afraid to call for clarification…I'll stay in touch; you do the same…