Only Just Begun...

ONE.STRONG.UNION.

With your help, One.Strong.Union. has become an important movement that will continue to demand accountability from our NY SAG Board. Would we have liked to have gained more board seats in the election? Of course. But we always knew this was a David vs. Goliath battle, and we’re proud of what we accomplished. O.S.U. candidates landed an overall average of 40% of the votes cast in this election. Not too shabby for a movement that took formal shape only two months ago. We congratulate the O.S.U. candidates elected: Sam Robards, Matt Servitto and Phoebe Jonas.

Your One.Strong.Union. representatives look forward to working with USAN, and with all the members of the SAG Board, nationwide, to bring you effective representation and a successful merger. The four pillars of O.S.U.'s promise to you, the members, are that we will be transparent, inclusive, forward-looking and collaborative board members, committee chairs and committee members. We are hopeful that Mike Hodge and USAN will join O.S.U. in that promise, as they declared they would during the campaign.

The first NY Board meeting will be next Monday, Oct 3rd. Committee appointments will be made by the board at this meeting. This is your chance to get involved! Fill out a New York Division Committee Service Request Form at http://www.sag.org/new-york-division-committee-service-request-form.  Stay tuned. O.S.U. promises to keep you informed. 

Rather than clog your inbox, we’ll be posting regular updates on our Facebook page and we hope you’ll visit often to catch up. If you have any questions or concerns, please email us at onestrongunion@gmail.com - we want to hear from you!

ONE.STRONG.UNION. - OUR OFFICIAL PLATFORM

SAG National Board Member - RBD, Mary McDonald-Lewis, Endorses ONE.STRONG.UNION.

“The way to win the future is to have diverse voices, fresh eyes, intelligent discourse, and experienced opinions in every facet of the evolution of our unions. I think the One.Strong.Union. candidates represent our best chance to have that. They kick ass, which is why I am supporting their candidacies. I know and respect them all, and cannot wait to get to work with them, to build our future.”
– Holter Graham, NY Actor, dual card member

AN OPINION FROM ANOTHER DIVISION OF SCREEN ACTORS GUILD

For many years I've supported USAN slate, and in fact had a hand in its formation. But times, goals and groups change, and I have grown uncomfortable with USAN's leadership style, finding it too exclusive; too opaque in its leadership; too determined to quell free speech and opinion, and too inwardly-focused to be genuinely service-oriented, as good union officers and a healthy board must be.

That's why I support the group of SAG members running as independents under the banner of One.Strong.Union., or O.S.U., and why I'm writing you today.

Thanks for taking time with my thoughts.

WHY SHOULD A MEMBER OF ANOTHER DIVISION OF THE SAG NATIONAL BOARD CARE ABOUT THE NY DIVISION?
Great question! The NY Division makes up just over 25% of the SAG National Board (Hollywood makes up about 50%, and the Regional Branch Division – the RBD – just under 25%). It brings tremendous influence to SAG policymaking, and to the work of merger. As a member of the RBD, it's important that I can count on my fellow Divisions to respect and support my Division and its needs, and to act in integrity in all union matters. The incumbent union members running under the O.S.U. banner have already demonstrated this support and integrity, with the bright newcomers to board service that complete the O.S.U. team pledging to do the same.

And remember, when an opposing political party from the Hollywood Division held the majority on the national board, members of the board from all Divisions put their shoulders to the wheel to affect change in that Division, with members of USAN as leaders in that effort. Further, so long as members of the Hollywood Division are listed as endorsers on USAN's website, members of all Divisions have a right to comment on this campaign. Lastly, it's everyone's right, in a democracy, to the free expression his or her opinion.

So to attack any member's comments based on zip code simply affirms a disregard for democracy.

I serve on a *national board* comprised of three interdependent Divisions, and I trust O.S.U. to partner with my Division to support the union today, and tomorrow – for the work they will do for you in NY, and alongside us nationwide.

IF THEY'RE INDEPENDENTS, WHAT'S WITH "ONE.STRONG.UNION."?
I'm especially excited by this. These 10 candidates – incumbents Sam Robards, Matt Servitto, Joe Narciso, Justin Barrett, Andrew Dolan, along with Corey Anker, Kelly Deadmon, Jeff Gurner, Phoebe Jonas and Gy Mirano – came to O.S.U. from many avenues. Some are former members of the USAN slate, who left it to run with O.S.U. Others were selected by the Nom Comm, yet chose to join O.S.U. Still others are candidates running on their own with years of committee experience, who elected to be a part of O.S.U.

Diverse perspectives, allied under the common goal of transparent, inclusive leadership. This is a team that recognizes and honors an entire spectrum of ideas and opinions; that values healthy debate; that deliberately avoids monolithic platforms – a powerful blend of longtime experience in the boardroom invigorated with fresh perspectives.
That makes this team adroit, adaptive, and responsive to the challenges facing us all.

DON'T WE NEED INCUMBENTS AT THE HELM DURING THE MERGER PROCESS?
With O.S.U., that's exactly what you have – with a bonus. Nearly half the team are incumbents – SAG/AFTRA dual cardholding board members with a track record of working on merger. The remaining O.S.U. candidates – also dual cardholders – stand ready to contribute their new ideas, energy, and creative solutions to the merger challenge.

Here’s the math: O.S.U. – 10 candidates, 5 incumbents + 5 bright newcomers. Five of these were Nom Com picks. So of the 10, 7 are either incumbent, Nom Com recommendations, or both. ALL have extensive committee experience. USAN – 10 candidates. Nine are either incumbent, or Nom Com – sometimes both, but not always. “Celebrity candidate” Lewis Black is not an incumbent, not a Nom Com choice, and has no committee experience.

BUT ISN'T THE USAN SLATE THE NOMINATING COMMITTEE’S PICK FOR ELECTION TO THE BOARD?
Actually, several O.S.U. candidates were picked by the Nom Com, but felt that USAN had drifted away from its roots, and declined USAN's invitation to run with them. As one O.S.U.-er put it, "I interviewed both members running for president. Twice. Sam Robards is my president. That's why I'm running with O.S.U."

That candidate turned down USAN's invitation to join its slate to run with O.S.U., and the same is true for all other O.S.U. Nom Com picks.

SO HOW IS O.S.U. DIFFERENT FROM USAN?
O.S.U.’s Four Pillars detail the differences, and you’ll be hearing more about specific programs in the next day or so. Here they are, taken from O.S.U. literature:

TRANSPARENT – O.S.U. believes that policy is discussed openly in the boardroom, not whispered in back halls. And we believe in inviting your voice into the conversation, and sharing the results of our work, whether progress reports for on-going efforts, or the final results of concluded business, with you, the member.

INCLUSIVE – O.S.U. believes that a healthy board is a board that encourages diversity: of kind of performer and contracts worked; of philosophy and political view. We believe that from vigorous debate comes best solution; from synergy of strengths comes the most powerful entity. And we believe in including you, the member, in the process of shaping the future of Screen Actors Guild, and the NY Division as we move toward merger. That means increasing board member outreach, and member participation.

FORWARD-LOOKING – The O.S.U. team is made up of NY SAG board incumbents and bright young actors hard at work in New Media. Our perspective is both historical, with a strong understanding of our union’s history, and future-facing, with an up-to-the-minute understanding of the technology shaping our professional world. We will put our expertise to the work of crafting a powerful contract that achieves fair wages for today – and tomorrow.

COLLABORATIVE – This may be our favorite pillar. O.S.U. seeks partnerships with AFTRA and other industry allies. We celebrate diverse opinions, and thrive on rigorous analysis and spirited debate. We believe true collaboration is about hearing all voices, examining all ideas, including all partners… and in not leaving the table until we’ve reached consensus. That means, all stakeholders have a share in solution – and that means everyone is dedicated to success.

BUT IF BOTH GROUPS ARE FOR MERGER, WHY DON'T I JUST VOTE FOR THE INCUMBENT PARTY... THE SAME GUYS I VOTED FOR LAST TIME?
O.S.U. IS the “same guys” you voted for last time! The group is made up of incumbents, Nom Com picks and candidates rich with committee experience.

O.S.U. is in favor of merging ALL members of SAG & AFTRA into one union, but differs from USAN in how we get there. O.S.U. believes the members' voices need to be heard in this process. Really heard: It wants board members and rank-and-file from all contracts and all political persuasions on merger committees. It wants NY members to contribute their ideas not just at membership meetings but at frequent, open, town hall meetings, and through "suggestion boxes" on the SAG website. O.S.U. also wants regular progress reports to go out to the members via email, and online video, so you can monitor progress and continue to participate – not just vote merger "up or down" in a ballot.

O.S.U. is dedicated to merging SAG and AFTRA, and believes the way to do it is through an open process that involves all of us.

And remember: voters can't "just vote for the incumbent party" because both parties are made up of incumbents. The difference is, O.S.U. believes merger can be successfully passed only if we learn the lessons of the earlier efforts. It's the only way to avoid merger failing as it did twice before.

FINE. WHAT ARE O.S.U.’s GOALS FOR THE NY DIVISION?
Broader board room diversity; open New Union discussions and reports; better board-member communication; effective member outreach and education; powerful intra-union partnerships; New Media and Interactive preparation; Spanish language organizing; Background Performer career development; an expanded PWD program… and more, which you’ll be reading about in great detail soon.

Thanks for taking the time to consider a fellow national board member’s opinion on this election – it matters to all Divisions, regardless of one USANer’s published insistence that folks from other regions don’t have a right to an opinion on the subject.

As you can see, I feel strongly that One.Strong.Union. is the team to take the NY Division of Screen Actors Guild into the future, alongside the Regional Branch and Hollywood Divisions. I hope you'll take time to visit them on Facebook at One.Strong.Union. and cruise to their website for more information: OneStrongUnion.com.

In Solidarity,

Mary McDonald-Lewis

National Board Member, SAG
Regional Branch Division

COREY ANKER - ONE.STRONG.UNION. CANDIDATE for the NEW YORK SAG BOARD

With just about a week to go until ballots drop, it's time to let folks know why I am running for the board with the One.Strong.Union. team.

I earned my SAG card back in 1992, after getting cast in a couple of on-camera commercials. Acting was more of a hobby than a profession back then, but the experience was exhilarating. I went off to college, got a degree in Film & Video and found myself employed within the film industry - behind the camera. In 2001, I felt my creative drive kick in and I took a shot at voice overs. Fortunately, before too long I was able to carve out a new lifestyle and work at something for which I had great passion. And my union, SAG, was always there with total support. In 2009, I took part in the Commercials Wages and Working Conditions Committee and found myself on the negotiating team, going up against the monolithic JPC. We won a great contract in a very challenging time. Though approached by members of SAG to continue my service, I was there under the auspices of AFTRA and loyalty told me that is where I should begin. I have been on the NY local board of AFTRA since.

Over the past couple of years I have participated in SAG committee work, and I have always planned to give back to my mother union (the Guild) in an even greater way. As another merger effort mounted, I was asked to be on the New Union Committee - AFTRA's side of the merger committee, which along with SAG's Merger Task Force, makes up the G1. That's when I decided it was time to join SAG's board as well. The only way merger will happen is for both unions to agree on how to come together, and so much of this work is done in the boardroom. For me to be on both boards would help get this most crucial task accomplished.

So here I am.

If I were you, the questions that I would want answered are the following: Why me? Why O.S.U.? Why now? There is so much to say so I am just going to shoot from the hip. First, change is a very fundamental part of life. Whether it's the seasons, the aging process, fluctuations in the markets and our nation's economy, or politics, change happens. It must happen. Life is organic and in constant flux - and for good reason. Because without change, complacency naturally sets in. New faces and new voices are valuable for their much needed fresh perspective, and they bring new energy and the hunger and desire to work hard and get things done.

I know - and am even friendly with - a number of the current USAN leaders. Many of them are nice people. But this isn't about who I like. It's about who can do the best job. It's about who we want to make the choices that will affect tens of thousands of performers and our families. And I assure you that it isn't the current seat holders, at least not as a whole. In fact, if you were a fly on the wall in many of those meetings, you would be unhappy to learn what goes on behind closed doors. It certainly isn't the grand job USAN claims they are doing. No, I haven't been in that room either - not yet. But I have heard, witnessed and verified certain factual details from incumbents who are now on the O.S.U. team, and from other USAN members, past and present.

Keep something in mind while evaluating the current leadership - the one thing USAN themselves keep repeating - they have accomplished things that have gotten us to this point. Perhaps, but what have you done for me lately, USAN? How long are you going to hang your collective hat on the accomplishments of the past? We face an incredibly crucial time RIGHT NOW and the future absolutely depends on our levelheadedness, desire and ability to show up and do what is right.

In addition, despite USAN's begging them not to, five members of USAN have separated from the slate and are running independently with O.S.U. This glaring action cannot be ignored. First, those who left USAN clearly disagree with USAN philosophy. Second, these incumbents are also responsible for the very accomplishments that USAN waves like a banner in the air. But just as USAN has "borrowed" our marketing - from our web address to our platform of transparency - they want to take sole credit for gains that were also achieved by O.S.U. The difference is that when WE talk about the very necessary changes, it's because we are the original authors behind them and are aware of the methods to proactively implement them. USAN has conveniently decided to freshen up their website - after YEARS of dormancy - and in the eleventh hour to parrot our concepts as a reactive copycat tactic to attempt to undermine our campaign. They have felt threatened by our mere existence from day one, and perhaps for good reason. We are not here to form a social club. We want to revamp a dysfunctional process and turn it into nothing short of what it is meant to be - a host for democracy and open, collaborative discourse where real and effective leadership can do what is best for the membership. Period.

This brings to me to another distinction. I believe - and O.S.U. believes - that the Nominating Committee (Nom Com) does not serve a great purpose. In fact, it is actually part of the problem. Keep in mind, I served on this very committee in 2009 and 2010 and just this year came before it AND was chosen by it. Here's how it works: the board selects the Nom Com and the Nom Com essentially selects who will serve on the board! That's not democracy. That's not checks and balances. That's circular, back door politics. And it isn't good. The largest division of our guild - Hollywood - got rid of it, and AFTRA doesn't have one. So why is the New York leadership clinging to it? Because it keeps the party that's in power - in this case, USAN - in power.

Speaking of Hollywood: Ken Howard and Amy Aquino are doing a great job. I am glad that they hold the very significant positions they do. They are effective, they're helping us move toward merger and they're dedicated to the Guild - as a WHOLE. However, with all respect, none of that equates with knowing what is best for NEW YORK. They are 3,000 miles away. They wear LA-tinted glasses, and they believe - right or wrong - that they owe a debt to USAN, the very group that helped get them elected. So while I like them, I respect them and appreciate their service, their recommendation of USAN should not be taken as gospel.

I hope I've explained "Why O.S.U.?" and "Why me?," which leaves "Why now?" The answer is powerfully simple: because this is the most important moment for the Screen Actors Guild since its founding seventy eight years ago. We are creating the successor union that will represent all performers who work in recorded media - now, and for generations to come. USAN wants to encourage you to just, "Get it done. We'll fix it later." Scarier words could not be spoken. Am I pro-merger? 100% YES. I serve on the G1 Merger Committee - of course I am. Is the O.S.U. team pro-merger? Absolutely - every single one. We all believe it's the most important thing we will accomplish on your behalf. But it must be done right. O.S.U. promises to help craft a merger that considers all contracts, cares for all members and ensures the safety of our pension and health funds BEFORE it comes to you on the ballot... not "fix it later."

If we want a merger that will create the strongest new union possible, we must bring to the process the history and knowledge of experienced board members, and the energy and original perspectives that only fresh eyes can provide.

In closing, I want you to vote for me, for Sam Robards for President and for my fellow O.S.U. teammates. BUT much more important than my desire to serve you, what is TRULY the crux of this campaign: the return of democracy to the NY SAG board.

What I really want more than your vote for me, is your vote for what you believe is right. I hope that you will see that they are one and the same. But if they are not, I fully support your desire to vote for anyone. Just get out there and do it! Make a choice, take a stand and go for it. It is your right.

It is the only thing standing between the success of our present and hope for our future, and the dismal possibility of what may come if you don't.


In solidarity,

Corey
coreyanker@gmail.com

NY SAG Election 2011: A Comparison - An Open Letter From ONE.STRONG.UNION. Candidates for the New York Board

YOUR SAG BALLOT HAS ARRIVED, and for the first time in years, you have a real choice in this election. We are on the cusp of merger with AFTRA and a strong New York board is essential at this crucial moment. Here are just a few vital areas where ONE.STRONG.UNION. and USAN don't see eye to eye:

MERGER

USAN: ANY MERGER WILL DO.
-USAN leaders appointed the same few people to represent NY on all the committees involved in this complex task, including a USAN candidate with no SAG work experience. By shutting out experienced and effective board members outside their circle, they have limited the varied and thoughtful input that will bring you the best merger possible. 

ONE.STRONG.UNION.: WE WANT THE BEST MERGER POSSIBLE. 
-The time to merge SAG and AFTRA is NOW and O.S.U. is 100% committed to one strong union representing all members. We support and will improve the current merger process by creating opportunities for all NY members to contribute your ideas. THIS IS YOUR MERGER. O.S.U. will make sure YOUR NEEDS are met. We know that only an inclusive, well thought out merger will pass and WE ARE NOT TAKING THIS MERGER FOR GRANTED. 


INTERNET AND NEW MEDIA

USAN: IT’S NOT THAT IMPORTANT.
-During the last TV/Theatrical contract negotiation, USAN put this exploding medium on the back burner. 

ONE.STRONG.UNION.: IT’S OUR FUTURE.
-O.S.U. candidates work all SAG contracts and recognize the importance of capturing our fair share of this growing revenue stream. We're ready for the next negotiation with specific proposals to get you more money for your work in New Media. O.S.U. has what it takes to protect your future.


INTERACTIVE GAMING AND QUALIFIED REPRESENTATION

USAN: THERE’S NO MONEY IN IT.
-USAN routinely appoints people to negotiating committees who DON'T WORK THE CONTRACT, often with disastrous results. In 2009, SAG LOST JURISDICTION over Interactive jobs. The NY chair of the negotiation - a current USAN candidate - had minimal experience under the contract and did nothing to prevent this debacle. He defended this disaster by dismissing the income potential of this MULTI-BILLION DOLLAR business.

ONE.STRONG.UNION.: WE'RE DOING THE MATH.
-O.S.U believes everyone on a negotiating team must understand, value and work the contract being negotiated. ONLY QUALIFIED REPRESENTATIVES FROM THE PRINCIPAL AND BACKGROUND COMMUNITIES SHOULD REPRESENT YOU IN ALL NEGOTIATIONS. Merger gives us another shot at claiming a bigger piece of the gaming business for union performers - O.S.U. won't take that opportunity for granted.


FAIR ELECTIONS

USAN: STACKING THE DECK.
USAN supports the flawed Nominating Committee system, and expects everyone selected by the "Nom Comm" to run with USAN. Here's how it works: the board majority selects the Nom Comm, which in turn “approves” the board majority as candidates! USAN refuses to re-consider this questionable system, because it keeps them in power.

ONE.STRONG.UNION.: KEEPING IT HONEST.
-O.S.U. will abolish the Nominating Committee, which promotes entrenchment, not accountability. We will ensure that these kinds of unhealthy practices don’t find their way into the new merged union.


BOARD INTEGRITY

USAN: THESE ARE OUR SEATS, NOT YOURS.
- USAN supported a new rule that allows a board member to replace themselves with anyone they want. A celebrity can run, resign and give a National Board seat to a member who didn’t even stand for election, disregarding your votes.

ONE.STRONG.UNION.: YOUR VOTE COUNTS.
-The board is elected by the membership to protect member interests. When a National Board seat is vacated, it should be filled by an alternate YOU elected. O.S.U. will demand an objective replacement process that honors your choices.


Electing O.S.U. guarantees a board that values INCLUSION, demands TRANSPARENCY and anticipates the future through FORWARD-LOOKING vision. We will COLLABORATE with SAG board members nationwide and partner with AFTRA leadership to create the strongest New Union possible.

Here are just a few initiatives O.S.U. has planned to better represent and include you:

**Detailed email and video reports after every board meeting.**

**Regular merger updates and opportunities to tell the board what YOU want in this merger.**

**Opening the boardroom to NY members - bring your concerns directly to the board, IN PERSON.**

**Contract "Open Houses" - ask questions about the contracts you work and get answers. We need to hear from principal and background performers about what's working and what's not.**

**Predicting the future - we'll establish an "Innovations Committee," to research emerging developments in technology that will effect our industry and your paycheck.**

Visit ONESTRONGUNION.com for more information on how O.S.U. will serve NY actors.


You have your ballot.  Make your voice heard. Ballots must be received by Sept. 22nd.

Elect ONE.STRONG.UNION. It's time.


Your ONE.STRONG.UNION. VOTER GUIDE

President:

SAM ROBARDS


NY Board of Directors:

#2 GY MIRANO

#3 JOE NARCISO

#5 SAM ROBARDS

#8 MATT SERVITTO

#10 COREY ANKER

#13 JUSTIN BARRETT

#17 KELLY DEADMON

#18 ANDREW DOLAN

#20 JEFF GURNER

#21 PHOEBE JONAS

SAM ROBARDS - AN OPEN LETTER FROM OSU'S PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE FOR THE NY DIVISION OF SAG

SAM ROBARDS
National Board, 2008-present.
2008 SAG TV/Theatrical Taskforce
2011 Joint SAG/AFTRA TV-Theatrical/Exhibit A Negotiating Committee
2011 Joint SAG/AFTRA TV-Theatrical/Exhibit A Wages & Working Conditions
Stunt and Safety Committee
HealthCare/SafetyNet Committee
National Disciplinary Review Committee - NY Chair


Dear SAG Brothers and Sisters,

My name is Sam Robards. I am a third generation SAG member and have been a working New York actor for thirty years. After three years as a National Board member, I have decided to run for New York President of SAG.

My first year as a National Director was eye opening, to say the least. I lived through the infamous "30-hour board meeting," joined in the Written Assent action that made it possible to replace Doug Allen with the impressive David White, and helped to finally bring home a SAG TV/Theatrical Contract as a member of the SAG TV/Theatrical Task Force. I was encouraged by the progress that we were making. There was the powerful sense that we, as union leaders and members, had turned a corner.

But then I began to notice deeply troubling trends in the SAG NY boardroom.

When I joined the NY board there was a lot of talk about "voting your conscience," and assurances from the leadership that "we listen to everyone." The reality was something quite different. The NY boardroom has become less and less a place where open, considered discussion and debate are encouraged. USAN representatives – those in the majority who control the NY board – seem to enter every discussion with a predetermined agenda and an entrenched and immovable perspective. Far from being an environment where independent thought is welcome, there is no possibility of changing minds or seeking out better solutions. Bloc voting prevails.

This lack of an inclusive process extends beyond the boardroom. It is reflected in our relationship with the members: the information you get is limited and lacks real-time accountability. For instance, almost a year ago we elected a new Pension & Health trustee to represent the NY Division. NY has only four actor trustees representing over 20,000 members. Trusteeships are lifetime appointments. The work of our trustees affects the lives of all working actors and will deeply impact merger.

Do you know who your new trustee is? O.S.U. believes you should.

We are serious about accountability and we intend to keep you apprised of what's happening in the boardroom. We will energize the board by bringing fresh, new initiatives that will provide you with more effective representation and ensure that the new union we'll establish with AFTRA will be focused on all our members' needs. You must be able to trust that your board will do what's in your best interest. I promise you that I, and the entire O.S.U. team, will honor that trust.

The four principles that guide O.S.U.'s approach to service are:

INCLUSION:
An open board process that allows ALL points of view will prevent past failures from recurring. Insularity and "old school" approaches won't get us to the strong new union all performers deserve. As your president, I will welcome independent, creative thought and I will support original initiatives. I will guide our board conversations rather than dictate them. In Los Angeles, the introduction of new voices through elections at both SAG and AFTRA during the past few years has been instrumental in getting us closer to a successful merger. It's time for NY to follow this promising trend. O.S.U. will ensure that you have the sharpest, most knowledgeable members looking after your interests by making important committee appointments based on meritocracy, not personal loyalties.

TRANSPARENCY:
O.S.U. will establish a new practice of informing NY members of the progress being made on your behalf after EVERY New York board meeting. You'll hear from us via email and you'll also get NY SAG updates via video. We will also provide the opportunity for any NY member to have their concerns addressed and their ideas heard by speaking directly, in person, with the board. These are just a few of the many O.S.U. communication initiatives that we have planned.

FORWARD-LOOKING VISION:
As NY president I will pursue creative approaches to monetizing the ever-increasing slice of the pie that New Media represents. As a member of the AFTRA Exhibit A Negotiating Committee in 2008 and the SAG TV/Theatrical Task Force in 2009, I accepted that in order to complete the negotiations, we needed to give a little on New Media. I did so knowing that these New Media provisions would "sunset" in 2011.

But in 2011 we did not make great strides in New Media, which disappointed me as a member of the negotiating team. There was no effort to reduce streaming windows; no serious consideration given to alternate models for residuals payments, such as percentage-based residuals. I do not believe these concerns have been taken seriously by USAN leadership in New York.

That's why I'm so proud to be running with O.S.U. teammates Justin Barrett, Joe Narciso and Jeff Gurner. These gentlemen are fully conversant in the latest New Media developments and will be valuable leaders in this crucial area as we speed along the information superhighway. There is no one else currently in the NY boardroom who comes close to these three in their knowledge of, and experience with, New Media.

In our rapidly changing world, it's enormously important to maintain a dialogue with SAG performers BETWEEN negotiations. O.S.U. will hold regular Contract Open Houses where the board will hear from performers about their work experiences and their ideas for a future that compensates actors fairly for their work in New Media. If we don't actively engage our members and think outside the box, New Media could be basic cable all over again.

EFFECTIVE COLLABORATION WITH AFTRA TO DELIVER THE BEST MERGER POSSIBLE:
I am 100% committed to merger for all members of both unions. But after hearing some of the language coming from New York SAG Board leaders, I had grave concerns about whether this merger would succeed. I believe our members deserve something better than the "any merger" USAN might be willing to accept. We have the opportunity to create a new union that will not only combine the strengths of SAG and AFTRA, but will establish new standards and practices that will make it possible to serve our members more effectively than either union ever has before. We can make organizing, which should be our number one priority, an integral part of the structure of our new union. We can investigate and create a system of governance and service that considers the disparate needs of our members – this merger must protect and support all of us. We need a merger that not only incorporates all the hard work that has been done thus far, but includes and celebrates the new, energetic, informed points of view that in New York only O.S.U. can bring. Merger is THE critical issue for all of us. We MUST get it right this time. We simply cannot afford to fail.

I considered not running for the NY board this year. I was concerned that the personalization of service, premium on ownership of ideas and political game playing I witnessed left little room to get much good done. I saw qualified, smart, effective board members relegated to the sidelines, while those who "toed the party line" were promoted to leadership positions. But I, and the other four O.S.U. incumbents (Justin Barrett, Andrew Dolan, Joe Narciso and Matt Servitto) decided that we had a responsibility to the membership to stay in the game and improve the quality of service of the NY SAG board. How lucky we all are that five impressive, dedicated members joined us in this challenge – Corey Anker, Kelly Deadmon, Jeff Gurner, Phoebe Jonas and Gy Mirano.

O.S.U. promises to listen to, and really hear, the opinions of everyone, including those with whom we might not agree. If we limit the voices in our most important conversations, we will enter the future hobbled - we will not achieve the best possible new union, and we will fail to move forward into the future.

O.S.U. promises to embrace and defend the one thing that will save us from that failure: unobstructed democracy. That is what O.S.U., and I, will deliver.

Vote ONE.STRONG.UNION. It’s time.

With respect and in solidarity,

Sam

Get To Know Candidate, Corey Anker, And Why He's Running With OSU

OSU CANDIDATE, COREY ANKER: WHO WE ARE

O.S.U. Candidate Corey Anker From The AFTRA Publication STANDBY NY Vol. 42, No. 3.

"What are you gonna ask for next Gene, the Moon?"  Gene was Eugene Cernan, a successful astronaut in the late 60's and early 70's who received his degree, in electrical engineering, from Purdue University.  But this was 1992, on the set of a national network on-camera spot for the Big Ten, and Captain Cernan was being played by Gabe Mann.  I was the one asking the question, in the role of one of two friends accompanying the then high-school-aged future astronaut.  We were in Liberty State Park, on the other side of the Hudson, sitting on the hood of some old-fashioned cars, staring up at the star-filled sky.  And with that, so began my union cardholder days -- the first being that for the Screen Actors Guild.  I myself graduated high school at the end of that year and went on to college, and actually in the Big Ten but not at Purdue.  While I didn't study electrical engineering or become an astronaut, I did continue to pay my dues, despite the fact that I wasn't planning to work for most of the next four years.  Something told me to keep paying what at that time was about fifty bucks semi-annually -- that it would be worth it at some point.

Fast-forward to 2001.  After getting a degree in Film and Video Studies from the University of Michigan, working in various other aspects of the industry and finally getting back to the creative side, I got an agent and found my way into the voice over arena.  Hello radio; hello AFTRA.  At that point I've been a member of SAG for about nine years and was now a dual cardholder; and yet it took another eight years for me to "show up."  Don't get me wrong.  I was aware of the unions -- I always voted when asked (in the form of the mailings I received).  I especially appreciated the extra money that would come in the event that late fees were secured.  But as for all of the inner workings of the various cogs and how they fit together, that wasn't for me.  I just took it for granted.  I knew that at any time I could pick up the phone and complain if necessary and someone would be there to not only listen but most likely be of assistance.  And it was true.

Again fast forward -- this time to November of 2008.  A friend of mine whom I know from the voice over circuit had recently moved into my building.  She is smart, funny and most importantly usually very busy professionally.  So when we ran into each other in the lobby, and she told me about the W&W (wages and working conditions) Caucus that she was heading to and did I want to join her, I figured there were worse ways for me to spend a couple of hours.

My first meeting was interesting from the start, and noteworthy for two things.  Firstly, the passion was palpable.  Not only were the faces familiar, they truly cared about what was going on and they were determined to do something about it.  Secondly, there was a sense of great openness.  I felt that I was quite welcome, not only to listen and observe, but also to add my two cents.  For the first time, I realized that I didn't have to stand outside the machine.  I could get involved and take my shot at having some impact on the outcome of circumstances that were unmistakingly affecting me and my career.

That meeting was open to all members of the unions who were in good standing and up to date with their dues.  I must have said something worthwhile that day because at its end I was approached by a few of the long-standing players and asked if I would be interested in attending the next stage of the process -- the W&W Plenary.  After the caucus meetings would wrap up in December, this next chapter was to take place at the Westin Hotel in January of this year.  Yes, I was most certainly interested.

The plenary raised the stakes and also brought to town the contingent from the other coast.  For the first time, I was able to meet and exchange ideas with those who worked in the same industry but who, in some areas, had a different take on the matters at hand.  I was honored to occupy one of the seats at the "big table," and it was big.  I listened and I watched as opposing passions articulated their viewpoints.  But there was an unrelenting desire to accomplish the common goals -- to sort out the points of greatest importance and to literally choose our battles.  There were a few tense moments but we hummed along, and when we got to the topic of new media an amazing thing happened.  Experience went up against insight.  Some of the veterans were convinced that they knew the way to go.  However, myself, along with a small group of younger performers realized that the future may not play out as the past had.  There was a degree of uncertainty.  Time would tell but we might need to go another way, and we definitely wanted to tread carefully so as to make sure we accomplished what made the most sense.  At first the "experience" side fought.  But we made our case, and incredibly they came around to our understanding.  From then on, we were dubbed "the Futurists," and I felt we earned at least a couple stripes that day.  I was very proud to be in that room and at that table.

Clearly, there was already a lot going on.  Amazingly however, these were simply the preliminary rounds.  The momentum was building and early February brought the approval of the proposals by the joint national boards.  About ten days later, we exchanged them with the industry side and one week after that, it was time to go to bat.

On February 23rd, formal negotiations began.  At about 5am on the morning of April 1st, they concluded.  To say that a lot transpired In those approximately thirty-seven days would be a tremendous understatement.  For the sake of brevity, if it's not already too late, I will simply say this:  I was very fortunate to both witness and participate in an amazing process.  I saw the good, the bad and the not so much ugly, but there were certainly some tough moments.  I saw New York and Los Angeles come together, in solidarity, in ways I was told had previously not occurred.  I saw passion, honesty and dedication.  I made new friends and gained respect for others (even on the industry side) while, I believe, earning a little for myself.  And I gained an education I had previously been lacking.  Thanks to a very long list of upstanding union members, we fought hard for all of our rights to keep working in this business in a way that can help support ourselves and our families.  Despite a tough economy and a tough group on the other side of the table, we accomplished much of what we set out to do.  At a time when corporate America was downsizing, and in some arenas actually collapsing, we achieved a pay raise and a lot more.

There are too many people to mention, and everyone worked hard, but I would be remiss if I did not call out the particular dedication and tireless efforts of our co-chairs Roberta Reardon and Sue-Anne Morrow, the attention to detail by Ray Rodriguez, the remarkable work of Mathis Dunn and the unmatched support of the entire union staff.  Being both liason between our side and industry, and educator, clarifier and at times even peacemaker for our group as a whole, words cannot do justice to what was literally brought to the table by our lead negotiator John McGuire.

As for the feeling at 5am on that early April morning, as we rubbed celebratory elbows with ourseIves and the other side, it was really sweet -- an experience I will not soon forget.  I am so proud to have been even a small part of this incredible process, and I strongly encourage all union members to get involved in whatever way you can moving forward.

Remember, with every effort you contribute to giving back, you are really giving right to yourself.