Studio Beat

As I write this, Tropical Storm Ernesto is upon us. I hope you made it through without problems. As you know, South Florida has a long history of destructive storms. Local 655 has also had somewhat of a stormy past. Right to work laws, dodgy local officers, receivership, the Florida Philharmonic bankruptcy, and many other challenges have made things difficult for us at times. We’ve also had to endure the same threats facing the entire music business: illegal downloading, outsourcing, and the many pressures on freelance and symphonic musicians.
Yet despite these challenges, I remain positive about the future of our Local. I’ve recently seen many examples of how our union can be a powerful ally to musicians. Last month, one of our members was having problems getting paid for some sessions. Despite the fact that the work was not under an AFM contract, we were able to get the member paid. They said they would never have seen a cent had the union not gotten involved. Every day I see the ways we help musicians – too many to list.

We are trying to spread the word to musicians about what we do. South Florida Musicians is the only organization that offers tangible services and benefits to local musicians, and membership only costs about forty cents a day. Recruiting new members is the single most important thing you can do to help this effort. You’ll get a $20 credit toward your next membership dues while helping to make us stronger.

It’s obvious that I’m proud of what we’re doing, but I must emphasize that our continued success requires your involvement. We want your input. If you have ideas for the Local, if you’re unhappy about anything, or if you just want to chat, please contact me. The current executive board, business representatives, and staff are redefining our mission to ensure that we remain relevant to our current members and to the musicians of the future. Below are a few examples of what we’ve been doing.

Symphonic Representatives Holly Ballard and Jeffrey Apana, along with Director Dione Chandler, Chair of the Symphonic Committee, are focusing their efforts to address important issues in our jurisdiction. Dione also does a great job administrating our MPF work and getting key tasks accomplished in her capacity as Office Manager. Our Administrative Assistant, Jenny Lopez, has made a positive impact on our Local in her service to members, recruiting efforts, and dealing with the daily piles of office work.

Director Doug Emery, Chair of the Education Committee, has developed a relationship between Local 655 and The Boys and Girls Club of Broward County, as well as an association with The Write Note Foundation ( http://www.wnfpb.org ). Doug has been able to get the local involved with a successful effort to complete an educational recording studio at The Boys and Girls Club. There is tremendous potential in these alliances; you’ll be hearing more about this project in the near future.

Dan Satterwhite, Chair of the Scales Committee, has been working hard in consultation with members to examine our local scales and make recommendations. As the chair of the Theater Committee, Dan, along with member Dana Teboe and the rest of the committee, was central in our recent successful negotiations. Vice President Dan Warner and the Recording Committee have continued to work with me to improve conditions for recording musicians. Director Peter Parente is developing some important initiatives to help freelance musicians and attract new members.

We are improving our marketing efforts based on the input of our members. Our officers are currently developing seminars that will help current members and recruit new ones. Secretary/Treasurer Jeffrey Apana and Director Chris Glansdorp have worked with the board to improve the appearance of our materials. You’ll notice changes to our materials; a new logo, an evolving design, a retooled website, and an expanded electronic version of our newsletter.

One of the new features in the newsletter is the Member Profile, the first of which highlights Mike Lewis. Mike has made a huge impact on the lives of many musicians. In the article, you’ll learn how upbeat he is concerning the AFM pension. Please contact me if you want some ideas on how you can improve your pension, or want to talk about any concerns. I’d love to hear from you. Until then, stay dry!
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