President's Report

… Pamphlet B Negotiations … This is a groundbreaking negotiation in that the AFM is attempting to create a nationwide agreement, not only with the producers and presenters of the shows themselves, but also amongst our fellow traveling musicians and Locals across the country. There are innumerable issues to be resolved amongst ourselves as well as with the Theater League. Progress is being made and two extended negotiating sessions have been scheduled for January 2002. I am cautiously optimistic that these two sessions will bring us substantially closer to an agreement. … 
Boca Pops Orchestra … On a much sadder note, the Boca Pops Orchestra has ceased operations after 50 years of service to the South Florida cultural arts community. In a troubled time for all non-profit organizations around the country, it is still very difficult to witness not just one, but three of Boca Raton’s cultural institutions dissolve for lack of support. In addition to the BPO, both the Royal Palm Theater and the Boca Raton Cartoon Museum have ceased operations recently. This is not just a local phenomenon; non-profit groups all over North America are in trouble from St. Louis to Toronto to San Jose. On a strictly local level, I encourage all of us to help our Local 655 members that have been hurt by this situation to offer whatever work and/or assistance possible. … Florida Philharmonic Orchestra … The FPO has also come precariously close to closing its doors. Through the extraordinary efforts of a task force consisting of musicians, staff and board members, a plan was struck to help save the orchestra. It is a painful solution financially for the musicians as they will be giving up 4 weeks of work both this year and next. In return though, the musicians have received a measure of control over the very situations that contributed to the organization being in the financially vulnerable position it found itself in. As a result, James Judd has resigned, and in a move that we believe will help the orchestra tremendously over the next two years of transition, Joseph Silverstein, a prominent violinist and conductor, has been appointed Music Director. We wish the organization well and will continue to assist the musicians of the FPO in any way possible. … Election … On a personal note, I want to thank all of you that took part in the recent election and have seen fit to have me stay on as President for another term. I will continue to serve the best interests of all of our members. For 35 years, whether as a sideman, leader or elected official of Local 655, I believe I have conducted myself in an honorable manner and I take your election mandate as a re-affirmation of that belief. In addition, we owe a debt of gratitude to the election committee: Scott Whitney, Chairman, along with Dave Brubeck, Chris Glansdorp, Al Golden, Scott Melamerson, Dennis Noday, Phil Shapiro and Dana Teboe. … the holidays are upon us … Finally, my sincerest wish that you have a safe, healthy and joyous holiday season and a prosperous New Year. … I’ll stay in touch; you do the same …
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