Site Admin — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 01:37:35 +0000

As you know, merger referendum ballots are scheduled to be mailed on or about February 27 – but all members of both unions now have access to the complete merger documents now online. Full printed merger documents will also be mailed to each voter along with the referendum ballot, which will be due for return on March 30. This will give each member ample time to make a thoughtful and well-informed decision. Please click the below links to view the SAG-AFTRA Merger Agreement, SAG-AFTRA Constitution and the P&H&R Feasibility Report.

As a reminder, watch for the launch of the new joint website to provide members all the information they will want to consider before casting their votes. The website will include complete merger details, FAQs, and a comprehensive calendar of events to alert members nationwide to informational meetings and other opportunities for learning about the plan. Watch your email later this week for details of the website launch. If you have questions or have trouble accessing the above documents, please email us at oneunion@sag.org.

Sam Freed’s Letter

Site Admin — Wed, 31 Aug 2011 03:09:27 +0000

I was New York president of SAG during the transition from some very difficult times for the Guild. That transition has continued under the leadership of New York President Mike Hodge and the USAN leadership of the New York Board. The Guild is once again back on track and just as important because of USAN, SAG is in the process of creating a new union with AFTRA.

There’s good reason for that:

USAN represents diversity on many levels. We not only work all the Guild contracts but we serve on the critical committees that ensure your interests are being protected and where your voice can be heard.

USAN leadership has been instrumental in re establishing our relationships with other unions and creating the coalitions necessary to establish the tax incentives that have brought tv series and movie work to the city and state.

USAN leadership has delivered contracts that you have ratified by over 90% majorities

For the past 10 years USAN has been supported by a strong majority of New York members. That support has created a sense of unity in New York.

Unity is a powerful force. There is no doubt, from my perspective as President, the unity that USAN created in New York has been central to the turn around of SAG as a national union.

There are some, good intentions aside, who want to break that unity in our present election. Their effort shows bad judgment not only in respect for or recognition of what USAN has accomplished but for what USAN leadership is positioned to do for our future.

As we move forward to create one union there can be no distractions. No personal agendas can be more important than that ultimate goal. USAN leadership understands that. Now, more than ever, is the time to stay the proven course.

Sam Freed
Former
New York President – Second National Vice President

USAN’s 2011 Screen Actors Guild officer and board candidates are:

President

Ken Howard

Secretary Treasurer

Amy Aquino

New York Division President

Mike Hodge

Board of Directors (with ballot number)

1. Ezra Knight

4. Jay Potter

6. John Rothman

7. Kevin Scullin

9. Manny Alfaro

11. Dave Bachman

12. Marc Baron

14. Lewis Black

15. Mark Blum

16. Rebecca Damon

19. Traci Godfrey

United Screen Actors Nationwide

Sam Freed’s Letter