IN MEMORIAM

Mike Hodge
Dear Friends:
Last night we lost our friend and colleague—the fearless leader of our New York Local.
Mike Hodge was a powerful unionist, a remarkable leader, and more than anything a great friend, colleague and mentor. He led our local through several challenging years and into the momentous merger. He built on that powerful foundation to bring cohesion and stability to our local and helped build the industry economy on which New York members’ careers now thrive. His vision and leadership made us stronger and justifiably prouder. Alongside the pain of losing Mike, I urge us all to remember his extraordinary achievements on behalf of SAG-AFTRA and Screen Actors Guild before it.
For me, and I am sure for many of you who were his closest friends, this is particularly heartbreaking as we have lost not just a president, but a father figure and a big brother. Mike was a towering presence whose kindness and good nature made each of us better.
I have been in contact with his family and will share information on services and other details as soon as that is appropriate.
For now, please join me in wishing our dear Mike a fond farewell and a good journey.
Onward together,
Rebecca Damon
NY Local Board Candidates
87 Rick Zahn
88 Michael Arkin
89 Dave Bachman
90 Molly Ballard
91 Marc Baron
93 Evan Bass
94 Thomas J. Bellezza
95 Sandra M. Bloom
96 David Bodenschatz
97 Avis Boone
98 Jacqui Bradley
99 Christine Bruno
102 Brian Corrigan
105 Rebecca Damon
107 Laurie Dawn
108 Ray DeForest
109 Maureen Donnelly
110 Wayne Duvall
112 Venida Evans
114 Nick Fondulis
116 Janette Gautier
117 Andrew Gelles
119 Traci Godfrey
120 Stuart Green
121 Ed Heavey
122 Paul Hecht
123 Mike Hodge
124 Anita Hollander
125 France Iann
126 Lillian Isabella
128 Vivienne Jurado
130 Sandra Karas
131 Verania Kenton
132 Gerald M. Kline
133 Jeff Knapp
134 Ezra Knight
135 Joyce Korbin
136 Ilene Kristen
140 Cathy Lilly
141 Doug Lory
142 James Lurie
144 Adrian Martinez
145 Tommy McInnis
146 Robert G. McKay
147 Joseph Melendez
150 Sean Patrick Monahan
151 Mary Elaine Monti
153 Vanessa Morales
154 Jack Mulcahy
156 Nan-Lynn Nelson
157 Jay Potter
158 Linda Powell
159 Marisa Redanty
160 Buzz Roddy
161 John Rothman
165 Kevin Scullin
166 Sarah Seeds
167 Bev Sheehan
168 leslie Shreve
170 Alice Spivak
171 Rob Stats
172 Nancy Ellen Sutherland
173 Alex Tavis
174 Joan Valentina
175 Tania Villanueva
178 Jeff Wilburn
182 Cort L. Hessler III

National President [#1]
Gabrielle Carteris
The extraordinary privilege of serving as president is a journey I began nine years ago. After I was badly injured while filming, the union took care of me — and I pledged to give back through my service. Together we’ve accomplished so much: the historic unionization of Telemundo… working with California’s governor to pass the IMDb law… seeing our health plans merge… and now I’m focused on leading our TV/Theatrical negotiations. The work of SAG-AFTRA never stops but I bring passion to protecting our members every day. I would be deeply honored to continue fighting for you.

National Secretary-Treasurer [#6]
Jason George
Smart, successful organizations understand that increasing efficiencies and introducing automation improves customer experience. Our use of data and finances must track those of our hi-tech world. I’m thrilled that SAG-AFTRA will be incorporating direct depositing of residuals, saving millions in postage and labor, but we can and must go further. I’ll press for an option for automatic billing of union dues, electronic sign-outs on sets and sign-ins at auditions, which will also help us better track diversity and ageism in casting. Chair, National Diversity Committee; I’ve served for 15 years on the TV/Theatrical Negotiating Committee.

NY President [#3]
NY Local Board [#29]
National Board [#72]
Covention Delegate [#123]
Mike Hodge
Current NY President, National VP NY. Increasing work opportunities for members is my top priority. Thanks to our efforts on the Tax Incentive Program, work in Film, Television and New Media is growing year over year, and now we are working to add jobs for singers and dancers and have laid the groundwork for legislation to eliminate scams and protect our background community as well as working to recapture VO/Commercials. New York State AFL-CIO Executive Council Member. National and New York Local Boards, Industry Advancement Cooperative Fund Trustee (IACF), Committees: National and New York Executive, Professional Representatives, TV/Theatrical Negotiating, Basic Cable Negotiating, NetCode Negotiating, Corporate/Educational and Non-Broadcast Negotiating, National and Local: Organizing, Government Review, Communications.

NY Vice President [#6]
NY Local Board [#19]
National Board [#65]
Covention Delegate [#105]
Rebecca Damon
As national Executive Vice President, I’ve played a key role in modernizing SAG-AFTRA. Innovations like our mobile app and direct deposit of residuals make our union more accessible and put money in our pockets faster. I’m passionate about organizing non-union work to create more jobs — like our terrific victory at Telemundo. A working SAG-AFTRA & Equity member, I’m committed to providing programs that help build careers: “Business of the Biz”, Voiceover, Computer, On-Camera Labs, Casting Access. SAG-AFTRA Foundation Officer and Chair, Robin Williams Center. National and New York Board. Incumbent Vice President. Committees: Executive; Finance; Government Affairs and Public Policy; President’s Task Force on Education, Outreach and Engagement. Chair: Government Review; Member Outreach, Relations, and Education; MOVE.

NY Vice President [#4]
NY Local Board [#11]
Liz Zazzi
Proud working tri-union member since 1986, serving you on the SAG-AFTRA National and Local Board since merger. Prior to that, SAG Board since 2000, six-time AFTRA Convention Delegate, SAG NY Board Secretary, SAG-AFTRA NY Co-Vice President, Commercial Strike Captain, Joseph C. Riley Award recipient. I served on the G1 in multiple work groups and helped deliver merger. Member communication and swift staff responsiveness are my priorities. National Committees: Executive, Probable Cause, Communications (Chair), Editorial Sub-Committee (Chair), consistently delivering diverse and inclusive national and local publications. Educate. Engage. Empower. Together, we continue to shine a spotlight on SAG-AFTRA and organized labor.

NY Vice President [#7]
NY Local Board [#20]
National Board [#66]
Covention Delegate [#109]
Maureen Donnelly
I’m proud to be part of the USAN Team working together, leading and engaging our diverse and vibrant New York membership. Today we have increased production and employment opportunities, a welcoming new office, and a revitalized membership enjoying enriching activities and events.We need minds and voices open to fresh ideas, embracing the future while expanding on the best of the past and present. Vote now to carry that vision forward. I’d be honored to receive your support. Incumbent New York First Vice President, National and Local Boards, Convention Delegate; Executive, Finance, Government Review Committees; SAG New York President 1985-1991; Treasurer SAG-AFTRA Foundation; Chairman SAG-AFTRA MPPWF.

NY Vice President [#9]
Jim Kerr
Incumbent. Member of multiple national and local committees including the Government Review and Broadcast Steering committees. As Vice-Chair of the NY Government Affairs and Public Policy Committee, I work with members and staff to influence legislation on a state and federal level that benefits performers and increases job opportunities. Board Member, SAG-AFTRA Foundation. Active in promoting greater participation in our union by young performers. My work brings me into regular contact with members across all categories giving me a unique perspective of the diverse nature of our membership. It’s an honor to serve you, with your support, I’d like to continue.

NY Local Board [#10]
Convention Delegate [#87]
Rick Zahn
I became an actor after almost 30 years in the corporate world and EARNED my SAG, AFTRA and EQUITY cards. To learn about the unions, I got involved and was elected as an Inaugural Convention Delegate in 2013. I have since been elected to the NY Local Board, Convention Delegate 2015, and attended several National Board Meetings as an alternate. Committees: TV/Theatrical Negotiating, Disciplinary Review, Military Personnel and Families Support, Commercial Performers. With your support, I’d be honored to continue to fight for you in growing and strengthening our union and recapturing commercial work for New Yorkers.

NY Local Board [#12]
Convention Delegate [#91]
Marc Baron
We must continue growing and moving forward, working together, facing challenges and representing all members nationwide including background and stand-ins. I ask for your vote to continue my dedicated service to fellow members. Shepherd of The Lambs. US Navy Veteran. SAG Board 4 years, current SAG-AFTRA NY Board 5 years; member since 1979. Joseph C. Riley Award recipient. Committees: Low Budget, Military Personnel & Families Support, MOVE, MORE (Vice Chair), NY Host, Reinstatement Obligations Review (Vice Chair), National Disciplinary Review, frequent National Board Replacement. TV/Theatrical Negotiations Alternate, two-time Convention Delegate. Former: National BAC, NY BAC (Vice Chair), NY SAG-AFTRA WGAE Film Society.

NY Local Board [#14]
Convention Delegate [#97]
Avis Boone
With so much anti-union sentiment, right-to-work “for less” must be in our crosshairs. It’s time for increased wages under New Media contracts. I want to continue efforts to strengthen and enforce our contracts, increase work opportunities for ALL members and address the challenges faced by those under the protected groups: people of color, seniors, performers with disabilities, LGBT. Help me to make our voices heard. Joseph C. Riley Award recipient. Committees: Vice-Chair SAG-AFTRA NY Women’s; Ethnic Employment Opportunity; Commercial Performers; Commercials Negotiating; TV/Theatrical Negotiating; Conservatory. Co-President, Women in the Arts & Media Coalition. Past SAG National Board, SAG-AFTRA Convention Delegate.

NY Local Board [#15]
Convention Delegate [#99]
Christine Bruno
I’ve been fighting for increased representation for disabled actors like myself for 25 years. A proud union member since 2000, when not on set, I’m advocating for the full inclusion of ALL underrepresented artists through nonprofit work at Inclusion in the Arts. Committees: Chair, New York Local Performers with Disabilities (PWD); National PWD; AMPTP-PWD Task Force; Women’s; Conservatory; Convention Delegate since merger. I will fight to ensure that ALL members enjoy equal access to opportunity, and equitable treatment and compensation. A truly diverse and inclusive SAG-AFTRA is our most powerful weapon. Please vote for me and the entire USAN team!

NY Local Board [#21]
Convention Delegate [#110]
Wayne Duvall
I am running for the NY Local Board as well as a delegate to the Convention. I’ve made my living as a working union actor for 23 years now working primarily under the principal contract. I’ve only recently dipped my toe in the workings of the union and now believe it’s time to dive in and start to give back to the union that has given me so much. Please support me, Mike Hodge and the USAN team.

NY Local Board [#23]
Convention Delegate [#114]
Nick Fondulis
In my 10+ years as a union performer, I’ve worked as a Series Regular/Background/Principal/Supporting/VO/Guest Star/Recurring in TV, Films, Commercials & New Media. Along the way I’ve converted several non-union projects into pension paying SAG-AFTRA productions & want to help our union nimbly evolve, so it can soundly navigate the swiftly shifting technology of our present & future. Currently I am a member of Next Generation Performers (NGP), MORE (Member Outreach, Relations & Education), MOVE (Members Organizing Volunteer Efforts), and a key participant in webinars & seminars offered by PTEOE (President’s Task Force on Education, Outreach & Engagement) & I’m a SAG-AFTRA Foundation Volunteer.

NY Local Board [#25]
Convention Delegate [#116]
Janette Gautier
Incumbent. Open Door Committee (Chairperson), Network Code Negotiating Committee, NY Executive Committee, Honors and Tributes (Local Vice-Chair), NY Governance Review Committee (Vice-Chair). NY AFTRA board member and officer for decades, I am proud to be a Heller Gold Card recipient for service to the membership.My priorities: Organizing, member involvement and services, transparency. I have helped to re-establish the Open Door Program,and it will be available to you again this Fall. After working for merger for 30 years, I’ll continue to fight for the SAG-AFTRA UNION we envisioned. Preserve, Enforce, Expand, Recruit, Organize! As always, my voice is yours.

NY Local Board [#27]
National Board [#70]
Convention Delegate [#119]
Traci Godfrey
A proud Legacy SAG Board Member for over a decade; Current National Board Member of SAG-AFTRA; Fiercely committed committee member – past and present – including LGBT (National Chair), Performance Capture, Commercial Performers, Voice Over, Women’s, and Legislative. I’m acutely aware of the advancements made, the challenges overcome, and the needed progress that must continue. I’m personally dedicated to forward movement for our entire SAG-AFTRA membership. I will continue being your liaison giving “voice” to your concerns and ideas in order to make a difference for ALL during this vital time in our union.

NY Local Board [#28]
Convention Delegate [#121]
Ed Heavey
I have 8 years of Federal service in the USPS (6 years as shop steward/convention delegate), 10 years in the US Army (Member, Veterans in Film & Television), and over 30 years as a parent. I work SAG-AFTRA contracts including acting, stunt and stand-in. I also serve on the Healthcare Safety Net Committee. One way or another, I’ve been serving and protecting most of my life. I humbly offer my knowledge, experience and drive to further assisting my brothers and sisters. Stay safe and I’ll see you on set!

National Board [#71]
Convention Delegate [#182]
Cort Hessler
SAG-AFTRA member since 1991. EMMY and SAG Award Winning Stunt Coordinator. I believe Safety is #1 on set. I will continue to serve on the National Stunt and Safety Committee (since 2002). In the past year I’ve been able to help unite the NY Stunt community and SAG-AFTRA on key issues. With the help of the present leadership there has been positive progress. I would like to be a part of the continued positive progress on a larger scale and help UNITE all of our Union. Together our voices as one can push our union to greatness.

NY Local Board [#30]
Convention Delegate [#124]
Anita Hollander
As a 2017 Winner of the Joseph C. Riley Service Award for outstanding contributions to SAG-AFTRA members, I’m a working actor who’s advocated for other actors for over three decades. I believe every member deserves a voice. In addition to being National Chair of Performers With Disabilities and National Vice Chair of Diversity Advisory Committee, I’ve served on Legacy AFTRA and SAG-AFTRA National Boards, TV/Theatrical Negotiating, and Joint Diversity Task Forces with AMPTP, AEA, WGAE, DGA, PGA, CSA and Broadway League. I also serve on GAPP, Organizing and Communications Committees, including the Website Subcommittee developing our new mobile app.

NY Local Board [#33]
Convention Delegate [#130]
Sandra Karas
You know me! And I have met so many of you in the course of doing tax or financial seminars for MOVE/MORE and the SAG-AFTRA Foundation. I’m a member of your NY Local Board and a frequent National Board replacement. My committee work includes Reinstatement Obligations Review (Chair), Disciplinary Review (Chair), Government Review, and Government Affairs and Public Policy, where I continue to update the QPA (Qualified Performing Artist) provision. I’m Equity’s Secretary-Treasurer and Director of Volunteer Income Tax (VITA) Program. Nearly four decades a union member, I’ve worked for years on your behalf and I hope to continue – for you – for all of us!

NY Local Board [#34]
Convention Delegate [#131]
Verania Kenton
SAG-AFTRA & AEA working member since 2002, Costa Rican-Cuban, Afro Latina. I’m serving to fight for contracts that protect our ability to work. We’re here to make a difference not just for ourselves, but also for our brothers and sisters, regardless of race, creed, gender, disability, etc. Proud to volunteer and serve our union, 10+ years, working for the greater good of our membership. Committees: Chair SAG-AFTRA NY Conservatory/National Vice-Chair, MOVE, MORE, EEOC and Diversity, Spanish Language Media, Organizing, Reinstatement Obligations Review, New York Host, Honors and Tributes. Vote USAN. Together united as One Great Union, SAG-AFTRA, the new legacy!

NY Local Board [#35]
Convention Delegate [#132]
Gerald Kline
Incumbent. Chair, NY Background Advisory Committee; Vice-Chair: Open Door, National Background Actors committees. During three decades, serving on two unions’ Negotiating Committees and Boards, I’ve worked to preserve the best of what we’ve had: preventing erosion while shaping future needs. That same task continues in growing our new union. I will continue fighting for Background performers while balancing national needs vs. NY essentials – not always a subtle balance. Personally, I’m blessed with pensions founded on work under many union contracts – giving motivation to expand future benefits for our members. Preserve, Enforce, Expand, Recruit, Organize!

NY Local Board [#36]
National Board [#74]
Convention Delegate [#134]
Ezra Knight
Elected on a Pro-Merger platform to National & Local Boards in 2011, I’ve been directly part of and witness to the many victories and challenges our union has experienced. Amidst assaults on labor unions nationally, the proliferation of non-union work, and lack of diversity, here we still stand: the largest, most visible, most viable, most successful labor union in the world. Committees: Diversity Advisory, EEOC (NY Local Chair; National Vice-Chair), NY Interguild Diversity. Experienced, proven leadership with new ideas for our future is what is needed. Nationally and locally I seek to continue the greater work ahead.

NY Local Board [#39]
Elaine LeGaro
Former AFTRA N.Y. President, Vice President; Boards: SAG-AFTRA, AFTRA 32 years, SAG 15 years, Editorial, GIAA, Duke Ellington Center for Arts; Committees: Negotiating, Wages & Working Conditions, Open Door (35 years), Convention Procedures, Awards, National Health Care, Guild Goverhment Review; Chair: Women’s (25 years), Senior’s Strike, Conservatory; Recipient Joseph C. Riley – WIN Awards. Priorities: Employment, Less Non-Union Work, Strong Contracts, Protected Groups, Pension & Health Funds. I’m not held captive to politics. Principles First – speak my mind – sensitve to performaers’ needs – will face future challenges. Strenth of one’s Vision makes a valuable Boared Director. I have that vision & would be honored to have your support. Vote with your heart, you can trust it.

NY Local Board [#42]
National Board [#77]
Convention Delegate [#144]
Adrian Martinez
I never thought I’d be in this position — a SAG-AFTRA board member! I’ve always thought someone else would assume this responsibility, and I could just do my movies and TV. But serving these two years has enriched and educated my life. I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished — the health plans merged, Telemundo is now SAG-AFTRA, the SAG-AFTRA app is up and running, direct deposit is on the way, and we are better positioned to negotiate strong new contracts. I love my union! Please vote for me, President Carteris, Rebecca Damon, Mike Hodge, and the USAN Leadership team.

NY Local Board [#43]
Convention Delegate [#147]
Joseph Melendez
For more than 20 years I’ve worked as a union actor and I understand our struggles in this ever-changing industry. More than ever we need leadership that truly speaks for our members. For the last 2 years with the USAN Team, I have done just that. As a SAG-AFTRA convention delegate, in the NY Local & National Board room, and as part of the 2017 TV/Theatrical Negotiating Committee, my priority has been to make YOUR voice heard. Help us continue moving SAG-AFTRA toward the future. Join me in supporting Mike Hodge and USAN. Solidarity!

NY Local Board [#46]
Convention Delegate [#154]
Jack Mulcahy
Hello, union sisters and brothers. I’d like to continue serving as a member of the SAG-AFTRA NY Local Board, and as Convention Delegate. I look forward to continuing my work on the Low Budget Film Committee, and as National Vice Chairman of the SAGIndie Committee. I have had the privilege of working on both the 2014 and 2017 TV/Theatrical Negotiating Committees. I want to strengthen our contracts with wage increases, including New Media, and pension & health benefits across the board. With your help, I’ll focus all my energies securing even better benefits for our membership.

National Board [#82]
Convention Delegate [#157]
Jay Potter
Five years into building a new union, our work continues. It is with great pleasure that if re-elected, I will continue to serve the membership. Thank you for your trust in my leadership, communication skills and ability to help enforce our contracts, organize work and negotiate better wages and working conditions. In the face of political opposition to unions and the basic needs of the common worker, a fierce push back is essential. Let’s rededicate ourselves and work together. Again, I ask for your vote and for the entire USAN team. Diverse. Progressive. Innovative. Strategic. Strong. VOTE USAN.

NY Local Board [#48]
National Board [#83]
Convention Delegate [#158]
Linda Powell
Current National and NY Local Board member. The environment we work in is shifting rapidly and requires us to react with strength and flexibility. We, the membership, are the union and my most important role is to be your voice as we navigate those changes. Our biggest challenge is the radical fragmentation of content and it’s effect on our members’ livelihoods. If elected, I pledge to support the efforts of staff to uphold the integrity of our current contracts while working towards solutions to that challenge. Committees: National Ethnic Employment Opportunity, Government Affairs and Public Policy, Reinstatement Obligations Review, Communications, Military Personnel and Families Support, NY Diversity, NY Healthcare Safety Net, Professional Representation.

NY Local Board [#49]
Convention Delegate [#161]
John Rothman
Member of SAG and AFTRA since the 70s, I ran for the board to further the cause of merger and help it succeed. I have represented working actors in the 2008, 2011, 2014 and 2017 TV/Theatrical Negotiations. I was vice-chair of the 2017 W&W Committee and am deeply engaged in the cause. I love acting and am very fortunate for the many gratifying work opportunities I’ve had. See www.johnrothmanactor.com for details. I have always been grateful for the union that has worked to monetize those opportunities as well as to serve and protect us.
“Now more than ever, our union needs smart and tough leaders to negotiate contracts which will have a long-lasting impact on our members. I endorse John Rothman, who will fight hard for us all.”
-Alec Baldwin
“John Rothman is an indefatigable fighter for the rights of working actors and future of our union. I have know him for over forty years and trust his integrity and his zeal. I hope you will support him in his bid to represent us in New York.”
—Meryl Streep

NY Local Board [#52]
Convention Delegate [#166]
Sarah Seeds
As Co-Chair of Next Gen Performers NY (MOVE subcommittee), I’m dedicated to bringing the importance of unionism to our younger members. I was a 2015 delegate and I’m excited to run again for delegate AND NY Local Board. I work in Film, TV, and New Media and have produced my own New Media projects. Having a Union to protect us in our evolving industry is supremely important. Our generation is the future and it’s important that we remain active and keep the Union strong. I’ve benefited from the Union greatly and I want to give back.

NY Local Board [#51]
Convention Delegate [#165]
Kevin Scullin
Over 25 years a working Union actor. It’s an honor to have your support as a SAG-AFTRA Board member. I am an impassioned advocate for all NY Union members. I support organizing more work opportunities, exercising sound fiscal responsibility, smart effective contracts, broadening outreach and communication to the membership. Spearheaded new Member Mobile App and upcoming Website revamp. I ask for your vote to continue to serve and represent you on the SAG-AFTRA Board and as a Convention Delegate. Committees: Member Organizing Volunteer Efforts (MOVE); Member Outreach, Relations, and Education (MORE); Communications; National Co-Chair, Website; Honors and Tributes; Organizing; SAGIndie; NY Host; LGBT; Singers, Stunt and Dancers Advocate.

NY Local Board [#53]
Convention Delegate [#168]
leslie Shreve
Great thanks to you who voted for me in the past! I honor your confidence – and truly value your trust. It is a challenge and a privilege to add to our professional growth in this unpredictable world. We have many accomplishments since merger. I specifically invite you to take advantage of a complimentary membership perk for ALL members fostered by your Women’s Committee – (Chair): Check this out at www.womenartsmedia.org. Please be wise with your precious vote – choose a SAG-AFTRA team who consistently “shows up” and works ardently, and creatively for ALL members…vote for YOUR team – USAN

Elected
Janice Pendarvis
I’m a veteran NY singer and voiceover actor with experience in union government, many years of knowledge of singer and recording artist issues across the country, an understanding of our contracts and the ability to see SAG-AFTRA as distinct from both legacy unions. I’m running because our National Board needs someone from NY with my experience and perspective. I believe that SAG-AFTRA must become more visibly engaged in the music business. Incumbent. NY Local Board member. Chair, NY Singers Committee. Vice Chair – 2014 Sound Recordings Negotiating Committee. Former SAG and AFTRA National Board member. Former Recording Academy NY Chapter Governor.

Elected
Jamal Story
During my NY local board tenure, and years of carrying AFTRA, SAG and Equity cards, I’ve watched the relationship between unions and performers from several angles: as a performer on Broadway, touring with Cher and Madonna, choreographing for television, and dancing with 501(c)(3) companies. More recently, I co-chaired the Music Video negotiating committee, resulting in a contract with higher minimums and more background jobs. Appointed by the late Ken Howard to the President’s Task Force for Education, Outreach and Engagement (PTEOE) I’ve connected nationwide with members from all categories, narrowing the distance between my goals and the people they serve. Vote USAN.

Elected
Jeff Spurgeon
I’m a broadcaster, running for another Local Board term to speak for and protect broadcasters’ interests within SAG-AFTRA, and to support our staff who negotiate and enforce our contracts. No organization protects broadcasters in New York and across the country as SAG-AFTRA does. I seek your vote to continue to engage, understand, and support our members across categories or any other boundary that can be drawn to divide us.We can be distinct in our crafts and yet be united. We must carefully protect and build our union, so that it can better protect us. Committees: Executive, Finance, Broadcast Steering.

Elected
Christine Nagy
I started my broadcast career in NY and have worked here steadily for two decades. As Co-Host of the morning drive show on Lite-FM, I write and report news, entertainment, sports, traffic and weather. Whether on camera or behind the microphone, I’ve dealt with vigorous challenges in a rapidly evolving industry. New demands and multiple platforms make me keenly aware of the importance of organized labor and how we must educate and mentor the next generation of media artists. I’d be honored to return to the Board to fight for the concerns and needs of broadcasters and all members.
MORE WORK
MORE MONEY
SECURE BENEFITS
PROVEN LEADERSHIP
WHAT WE'VE DONE
Working together as a national team, we’ve successfully negotiated contracts that have put over one billion additional dollars into members’ pockets.
Saw health plans merged, we organized Telemundo performers, took on IMDb, pushed for direct deposit of residuals, developed a new union call center, led the charge for the SAG-AFTRA app and made SAG-AFTRA financially stable resulting in record level surpluses, averaging $11M annually over the last 4 years.
WHAT WE'RE GOING TO DO
- Increase our residuals
- Flip more non-union commercials
- Expand New York tax incentives
- Fight for more money & work for Background
- Demand parity for Spanish Language contracts
- Expedite safe merger of the pension plans
- Capture New Media work and stay ahead of trends
- Bolster protections for Broadcasters
- Win the Interactive Media strike
- Develop the SAG-AFTRA Music Initiative
- Ensure safety for all actors, stunt performers and coordinators and
- Enforce Our Contracts
MAKE A DONATION
WHY SHOULD I DONATE?
Your donation is a direct investment in your own career, by helping to elect our extraordinary slate of smart, committed and working members who rely on our contracts and our pension and health benefits just like you.
WHERE IS THE MONEY GOING?
Getting our message out to over 35,000 NY members costs real money. Your investment will go directly to getting campaign materials into the hands of SAG-AFTRA members.
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“Join me in supporting Gabrielle Carteris, Jason George, Mike Hodge and the USAN/UFS team. They have been a force in SAG-AFTRA." — Steven Lang
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“I wholeheartedly support the re-election of President Gabrielle Carteris. She has proven herself as an extraordinary leader in the midst of rapidly shifting industry challenges. Jason George has the intelligence, judgement and union service experience to make an exceptional National Secretary-Treasurer. Leading us to merger and progressing beyond, Unite for Strength and USAN steer us to the strongest, most responsive SAG-AFTRA possible.” — Noah Wyle
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“I have always said our union will be stronger after merger. And now thanks to President Gabrielle Carteris, Jason George, NY President Mike Hodge and the USAN/UFS team we have the proof—a newly negotiated contract that is $56 million richer than the last. We made the right choice." — Margo Martindale
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"Leading SAG-AFTRA is no joke. Performers count on their union to protect their livelihoods in this volatile business. I trust Gabrielle Carteris and her team to continue fighting and delivering real victories." -- Jane Lynch
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“Join me in voting for Gabrielle Carteris, Mike Hodge & the entire team. They are the model of inclusion and truly represent our diverse membership across the board — their leadership, experience and vision are key to moving SAG-AFTRA forward.” -- Phylicia Rashad
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“I’m proud to support the visionary leadership of Gabrielle Carteris and Jason George. I’ve been impressed by their dedication to the needs of our members and their understanding of the value of inclusivity and diversity. They stand on their principles and don’t hesitate to put themselves on the line.” -- John Cho
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“As President, Gabrielle Carteris combines wisdom, grit and compassion - we’ve already reaped enormous benefits from her leadership. Jason George is a solid professional with the business savvy and union dedication to be a terrific Secretary-Treasurer. Carteris and George, along with their Unite for Strength and USAN colleagues are a winning combination – a win for all members.” -- Robert Patrick
USAN Leadership
ONE UNION.
Merger was just the beginning. While USAN has always been for merger and one union, we hardly feel our work is done. Whether you are an actor, broadcaster, singer, dancer, stunt performer or recording artist, we will put your voice in the boardroom. Our USAN candidates from President to Board Members to Delegates are your voice in your union.
We are members from all walks of life representing both ends of the earning scale (along with the struggles) and everywhere in between. We are both vested as well as working toward that goal. Some of us struggle to qualify for health care, which never seems to get easier. We are a coalition of SAG-AFTRA members, and while we originated in NY, we have supported and included candidates from every local across the country who care deeply about this union and their careers. We are members who depend on SAG-AFTRA contracts to feed our families, pay our rent or mortgages, and provide health care coverage. We will do whatever it takes to preserve our ability to do so.
In other words-WE ARE YOU!
Here’s what you get with USAN candidates:
- Responsible and progressive leadership with integrity. USAN understands that our TRUE adversaries are the multinational corporations that we negotiate with for every contract, not each other.
- Complete transparency with the membership. USAN believes in a union that communicates honestly with its membership.
- A diversity of working professionals working for you – to bring you more opportunities to keep you working, to keep SAG-AFTRA strong, and to be the model for other unions in this country and around the world.
We are dedicated to:
- Being a powerful advocate for anyone who works in front of a camera or behind a microphone.
- Strengthening ties with organized labor especially our sister entertainment unions to enhance our bargaining power.
- A true national and united SAG-AFTRA, where all the voices in all categories in all locals are seen, heard and counted.
- Bringing more work back to the U.S. with real world solutions.
- Finding creative approaches to organizing new work across the country.
- Fighting the encroachment of non-union work.
- Franchising and regulating our agents.
- Stabilizing SAG-AFTRA’s long term fiscal health.
- Working with our foundations to increase our career programming, literacy initiative (BookPALS), scholarships, and health and emergency assistance for New York members.
- Creating legislative tax initiatives to grow work in New York and keep more of your money in your pocket.
USAN is dedicated to protecting everyone who works in front of a camera or microphone. Founded in Screen Actors Guild as United Screen Actors Nationwide, our new mission is to Unite SAG-AFTRA Nationwide. USAN representatives work in every area of the entertainment and media industries and are committed to securing the strongest wages and working conditions for SAG-AFTRA members across all media.
PRESS
GABRIELLE CARTERIS TO SEEK RE-ELECTION AS SAG-AFTRA PRESIDENT
JASON GEORGE WILL RUN FOR SECRETARY-TREASURER
Candidates endorsed by Unite for Strength and USAN Leadership
for 2017 SAG-AFTRA Elections
Los Angeles and New York, (July 12, 2017) – SAG-AFTRA President Gabrielle Carteris will seek re-election as the union’s top national officer. Long time National Board Member and chair of the Diversity Advisory Committee Jason George will join Carteris for secretary-treasurer. UFS and USAN will also field slates of candidates vying for open positions as national and local board members and as delegates to the third SAG-AFTRA National Convention, to be held in Los Angeles in October. Election ballots will be mailed to members on July 25th and will be tabulated on August 24th
Joining Unite for Strength and USAN Leadership in endorsing Carteris and George are Octavia Spencer, Alec Baldwin, Rita Moreno, Jane Lynch, Noah Wyle, Margo Martindale, Rhea Perlman, Regina King, Michael Cudlitz, Keith David, John Cho, Phylicia Rashad, Robert Patrick, Stephen Lang and Luke Perry. Also endorsing Carteris and George are numerous elected SAG-AFTRA leaders from all 25 locals and National Officers, including Executive Vice President Rebecca Damon, National Vice President, Los Angeles Clyde Kusatsu, New York President Mike Hodge, National Vice President, Small Locals David Hartley-Margolin, National Vice President, Actors/Performers Samantha Mathis, National Vice President, Broadcasters Catherine Brown and National Vice President, Recording Artists Dan Navarro.
“It has been my great honor to serve as your president, pressing forward and leading the vital work of SAG-AFTRA, the world’s most powerful entertainment union. We must be responsive to our members’ needs, whatever the platform, whatever their work, wherever they live. Whether it’s negotiating new contracts, organizing Telemundo, standing up for a fair Interactive agreement, or keeping our ages off of IMDb, the work of SAG-AFTRA never stops,” said SAG-AFTRA President Gabrielle Carteris. The star of Beverly Hills, 90210 continued, “Our employers are enjoying record breaking profits and it is vital that we earn our fair share and retain the ability to make a living. I pledge to continue devoting my time, energy and passion to fight for SAG-AFTRA members.”
Grey’s Anatomy star Jason George stated, “President Gabrielle Carteris has been a friend and colleague in the boardroom since the early days of our work to unite SAG and AFTRA. I am excited at the prospect of serving with her as Secretary-Treasurer and further strengthening SAG-AFTRA,” George elaborated, “In addition to safeguarding our union’s fiscal security, I will prepare SAG-AFTRA for our rapidly-evolving industry by focusing on enforcement and digital innovations that reduce costly mistakes and improve timely and accurate payments to our members.”
Academy, Golden Globe, SAG and BAFTA Awards winner Octavia Spencer remarked, "I am proud to support Gabrielle Carteris for re-election as SAG-AFTRA President. Gabrielle is a fierce, intelligent leader and a passionate advocate for all of our members,” Spencer added, “She, along with Jason George as Secretary-Treasurer and everyone from Unite For Strength and USAN, represent the kind of progressive, dynamic leadership our union needs and our members deserve."
Oscar, Emmy, Tony, Grammy and SAG-AFTRA Life Achievement Award winner Rita Moreno said, "Gabrielle Carteris has done an extraordinary job as President of SAG-AFTRA. She and Jason George embody the strength, intelligence and compassion that are the earmarks of great leaders. They, along with Unite for Strength and USAN, have my absolute support."
Emmy, Golden Globe and SAG Awards winner Jane Lynch commented, "Leading SAG-AFTRA is no joke. Performers count on their union to protect their livelihoods in this volatile business. I trust Gabrielle Carteris and her team to continue fighting and delivering real victories."
SAG Award winner Noah Wyle spoke of Carteris, "I wholeheartedly support the re-election of President Gabrielle Carteris. She has proven herself as an extraordinary leader in the midst of rapidly shifting industry challenges,” The E.R. alum further stated, “Jason George has the intelligence, judgement and union service experience to make an exceptional National Secretary-Treasurer. Leading us to merger and progressing beyond, Unite for Strength and USAN steer us to the strongest, most responsive SAG-AFTRA possible."
Emmy winner Margo Martindale agreed, “I have always said our union will be stronger after merger. And now thanks to President Gabrielle Carteris, Jason George, NY President Mike Hodge and the USAN/UFS team we have the proof—a newly negotiated contract that is $56 million richer than the last,” The star of The Americans and Cars 3 concluded, “We made the right choice."
Star of The Walking Dead and Southland Michael Cudlitz stated, “I am proud to support Gabrielle Carteris for SAG-AFTRA president. I've known Gabrielle for over 25 years and I've seen her fight for performers’ rights first hand. Her commitment and courage are second to none. She has an all encompassing understanding and knowledge of the contracts and issues that really matter to actors on sets. However, more than her knowledge and experience, is this: Gabrielle cares. Her only wish is to enrich and support her fellow performers and I am confident she will continue to do an excellent job.”
Emmy winner Keith David also endorsed Carteris and George, sharing, “Gabrielle Carteris has been working on behalf of us all and making SAG-AFTRA a stronger union. The result of her tenacity speaks for itself, one of many reasons to support her re-election. With people like Gabrielle, Jason George running for Secretary-Treasurer and their team running for the board, I believe this is the group we need to move forward, trusting that our best interests are being cared for.”
John Cho of Star Trek fame noted, “I’m proud to support the visionary leadership of Gabrielle Carteris and Jason George. I’ve been impressed by their dedication to the needs of our members and their understanding of the value of inclusivity and diversity. They stand on their principles and don’t hesitate to put themselves on the line.”
Image Award winner Phylicia Rashad offered “Join me in voting for Gabrielle Carteris, Mike Hodge & the entire team. They are the model of inclusion and truly represent our diverse membership across the board — their leadership, experience and vision are key to moving SAG-AFTRA forward.”
Robert Patrick of Terminator 2 and Scorpion emphasized, “As President, Gabrielle Carteris combines wisdom, grit and compassion - we’ve already reaped enormous benefits from her leadership. Jason George is a solid professional with the business savvy and union dedication to be a terrific Secretary-Treasurer. Carteris and George, along with their Unite for Strength and USAN colleagues are a winning combination – a win for all members.”
Star of Avatar Stephen Lang stated, “Join me in supporting Gabrielle Carteris, Jason George, Mike Hodge and the USAN/UFS team. They have been a force in SAG-AFTRA.”
SAG-AFTRA Broadcast Steering Committee Chair Joe Krebs reflected, “Simply put, we are extremely lucky to have her! Gabrielle Carteris is an extraordinary leader - caring, concerned, and committed to each and every SAG-AFTRA member. I’ve seen her commitment to broadcasters by her participation in our Broadcast Steering Committee meetings and including us in all important discussions. I wholeheartedly endorse Gabrielle Carteris and Jason George for President and Secretary-Treasurer."
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