South Central Federation of Labor 2017-2018 Scholarship Application

The South Central Federation of Labor offers scholarships to members and their families. Members and children of members who belong to any of our affiliated unions, live or work in one of our six counties, have not yet received a post-secondary degree, and have not previously been awarded a SCFL scholarship are eligible to apply.  We award four $1000 scholarships, by lottery drawing from amongst the eligible applicants.  The application deadline is Friday, June 30 and the winners will be drawn at our July 3rd Executive Board meeting.

In addition, for members or children of members who live or work in Dodge County, we are offering two additional $500 scholarships.   These scholarships will also be determined by lottery drawing from amongst Dodge County applicants who do not win the $1000 scholarships.

Applicants can download the forms from our website (www.scfl.org) or download from the link below, fill them in on their computer, save and email them to Sharon@SCFL.org, if they prefer.

SCFL Scholarship Application

Overture Hall Orientation and Basic Theater Class

Come and learn how to get around Overture Hall, and pick up some basic and important theater knowledge.

Overture Hall’s Master Carpenter, Dave Gershbach and Master Electrician, Gary Cleven will be leading a general orientation of Overture Hall and teaching some basic skills that will help you be a successful stage hand when working in Overture Hall.

If you’ve ever wondered what the “Gary” room is or how to get to the catwalks come and find out.

Class is February 26th at 6pm in Overture

To register please contact Dominic Stryker at dominicstryker1@gmail.com.

There is no charge for this class.

This class is for people who have little experience in the theater and specifically Overture Hall but are interested in being prepared when the opportunity to work in Overture Hall arises.

Please spread the word!!

ION Console Training @ ETC on Sept 8-10

Ion Console Training
September 8-10 at ETC in Middleton
 
ETC’s Ion lighting control system provides simple and approachable programming and control for conventional systems as well as fully integrated lighting rigs. Join us at the home of ETC in Middleton, WI, to learn more about the features and functions of this amazing control system.
 
A tour of ETC’s amazing manufacturing facilities is included with this training event (will take place on September 8).
 
The ETC Education Center is providing the following exciting learning opportunities for lighting professionals to learn more about the Ion console:
Level 1: Essentials
 Sept. 8, 2014
9:00 – 5:00
Level 2: Enhanced Skills            
 Sept. 9, 2014                      
9:00 – 5:00
Level 3: Expert Topics
Sept. 10, 2014
9:00 – 5:00
 
You can register for one of these sessions or all, depending on your needs and experience level. 
 
For more information and to register, visit the course site at http://www.cvent.com/d/64qcf6.
 
There is a 25% discount for Local 251 members ($75.00 per day instead of $99.00).  Just register online and enter the discount code “ETCguest” at checkout.
 
If you have any questions about the training event or would like assistance with your registration, please contact Amy Russell (amy.russell@etcconnect.com , 608-824-5186).

OSHA 10

The IATSE Training Trust Fund will be holding a 2 day OSHA 10/General Entertainment Safety course in Kansas City on March 24 & 25, 2014.  This is a free training and an excellent training opportunity so all locals in District 9 are encouraged to post this information and notify their members of this event.  An application and flyer for the course is attached to this email.  Anyone interested in attending the course should fill out the application and fax or scan and email it to the Training Trust Fund.  The contact information is on the application.  They will be sending confirmations out to applicants via email. I hope everyone takes advantage of this training opportunity.  Click the link below for more info…..

ENTERTAINMENT SAFETY TOUR 2014-KANSAS CITY AND APP

1 Week Left to Register for ETCP@LDI

Dear Leaders in I.A.T.S.E.,

 

It was a pleasure to meet many of you at the Convention, and for those of you I didn’t not have the chance to speak with, I hope we have the opportunity in the future.

Trying to convince your members why they should become Certified?

I have been asked by many in the last few weeks how they can communicate the importance of ETCP Certification to their membership and my friend Tom McLean with Local 58 in Toronto has written a spectacular piece that may help you in your endeavors. The article is as follows:
One Word – Opportunity
by Tom McLean, IATSE Local 58

 

When I think of one word that encompasses the ETCP I think it comes down to opportunity!

 

  • To raise the IATSE brand to a higher level of excellence.
  • To motivate us to keep on learning and always reach for excellence.
  • To use as a guide for setting Education & Training curriculum within our apprentice programs.
  • To establish education funding with our employers through our collective agreements.
  • For personnel and collective recognition by a third party independent agency.
  • To get ahead of the curve if (when) legislation or our employers demand this certification as a standard.
  • To make a safer workplace for all of us. More people aware, more eyes, …
  • To achieve higher remuneration and better working conditions.
  • For individual employment opportunities with employers who demand their Heads of Department or Production crews to have the ETCP Certification.
  • To self govern.

 

 

For many years before ETCP, employers recognized the value of IATSE Members under their employment, having collectively multi-million years of experience in the entertainment craft. For the IATSE, the ETCP accreditation, in combination with the IATSE logo, identifiably raises the bar to further identify the IATSE brand, of what the foundation of IATSE is all about – the best in the industry. By adopting the ETCP certification as a standard – for lack of any other existing standard in North America, the result should be a stronger foundation for IATSE Members and a stronger recognizable brand. This should then lead to continuing employment and better wages and conditions and a safer work place. We should all embrace this opportunity to be further recognized. After all, it doesn’t hurt to have further qualifications.

 

We also need to remember, that the ETCP is open to anyone who meets the requirement to sit for the exam. If the non-represented have this certification and we don’t, then what? For those who are not aware, the ETCP Certification has rooted ground with Employers and their Insurance underwriters. What this means is that the employers are now faced with the question of due diligence. They are asking, how do we know or how can we identify the competency of our employees? Is the IATSE branding enough? Where are the records of training & testing?

 

Things always change.

 

Like so many other things, when issues arise, forces come together to correct or mitigate any issues and often by way of continuing education and training as well as new regulations and standards. The next progression then leads to the requirement for a record of training, certifications or licensing in order to resolve the issue. As an analogy, by way of when enough buildings and bridges fell, legislation brought in the requirement for licensed Engineers (and in Ontario, Canada, that was only around 1927) who areself governed. Prior to development of structural materials it seemed easy to build a structure of limited size of a story or few with reasonable skills and knowledge and assurance that it will stand. But as time goes new materials and machinery come along and architects or designers desire to be on the cutting edge. This lead to structures of greater magnitude, but the trouble being, some fell down and people were injured or died. Hence, regulation and legislation comes along. This analogy is not much different from our industry even with some of the basic things we do such as pyrotechnics, aerial lifts and fall protection, etc. (In Canada if you do not have these Certificates you are not legally able to operate). Designers design to the edge of technology given the budget. And at the end of the day this of course leads to the need for higher skilled workers. This is no different from what we face now and in our future.

 

In my 30 plus years as a member of IATSE, I have seen three distinct things: technology change, more competition and more accidents. The shows are heavier; the special effects are elaborate and automated, there is more lighting, audio, video, pyro; as well as more electrical power distribution required etc. There have also been more accidents and some fatalities along with this growth. Some have been in our venues and some in other venues not under our collective agreements. And as our Brothers and Sisters in the USA know, legislation came about with the right to work that in my mind impinged on our Union Representation in the work place and the Yellow Card system. But at the end of the day these accidents cannot go on and the forces will act to mitigate them.

 

The industry / employer requires the need for a higher level of skill sets to put these shows on and they’re willing to pay someone. Who will that be? The employer does or should recognize the value of having IATSE Members. But they also recognize the ETCP Certification as added value and due diligence. To the employers the ETCP Certification addresses the issue for them of record of training.

 

Are there problems with the ETCP program? Some I think. Is there ever a perfect system? I think that the ETCP Council is aware of some of these issues and are desirous to progress as well. We should all embrace this as an opportunity with all the attributes that come along with it. The biggest thing that I think the ETCP has done by far is to encourage learning.  By default, it gives some direction for setting of training and educational goals

 

Are the exams difficult? This is relative. For our seasoned Members maybe not so, but they are likely to still want to study and prepare accordingly.  For our newer Members there is homework and practical experience that is needed. After working with a great many IATSE Brothers and Sisters, both locally and road persons, I believe with all my heart that we are all capable of achieving success with these exams.

 

Lastly, I think it is important to take two approaches to the ETCP Certification program: A long-term one for the newer Members so that we have Members regularly writing the exam in the various categories every year. The exam may not be easy but if we develop our training programs in incremental progressions our Members should have no problem succeeding. In the short-term, I would encourage our seasoned Members to lead the way and start by taking the practice exam online without studying and don’t guess at the answer. By doing this, you will discover what you already know and then what you will need to work on. From there you build your study groups.

 

Take advantage of this opportunity and act now to gain a stronger foundation for our membership, more employment opportunities, better wages and a safer workspace. If legislation or the employer demand recognition then what, who will get the work?

 

Fraternally,

Tom McLean,

Member

IATSE Local 58

 

 

I hope this helps you move your membership forward, though the calls have not stopped since the convention, which is a very good thing.  Please let me know how to help!

 

Thanks,

Meredith

 

 

Meredith Moseley-Bennett

ETCP Certification Manager

630 Ninth Avenue, Suite 609, New York, NY  10036

Ph:  212.244.1505

Fax:  212.244.1502

Web:  etcp.plasa.org

 

The Wisconsin Labor History Society announces its High School Essay Contest for the 2013-2014 School Year!

Your name here,

The Wisconsin Labor History Society announces its High School Essay Contest for the 2013-2014 School Year! All Wisconsin high school students (grades 9-12) are eligible to participate. Students are urged to interview family members, neighbors, friends or others for their stories about work and unions.  Win cash prizes up to $500 for essays of about 750 words on the topic:

“Unions have been important to my family and my community because . . .”

First place, second place, third place and up to five honorable mention cash prizes will  be awarded.  Read winning essay from 2012-13 contest!  Go to:http://wisconsinlaborhistory.org/contests/high-school-essays

Rules: Essays should be approximately 750 words in length. They will be judged on understanding, evidence of original research, writing style and significance. Essays must be typed, double-spaced, on white paper. Two copies must be submitted (One may be a photocopy.) Please be sure to provide the following information on the cover sheet: Your name, address, home telephone number, your grade in school, name and address of your school, and, if you were encouraged or assisted by a teacher, the teacher’s name. (Also, list your family’s union membership, if applicable.) If you have any questions, contact: Harvey J. Kaye (920-465-2355 or kayeh@uwgb.edu). Submissions must be postmarked Feb. 14, 2014 or before.

Send completed essays to:

Prof. Harvey J. Kaye
Center for History and Social Change
University of Wisconsin-Green Bay, Green Bay WI 54311

 

Congratulations to Chantel Givens of Chippewa Falls Senior High School for her First Place Winner in the 2012-2013 Essay Contest! Below is her top prize essay.

“Unions have been important to my family and my community because … ”
Freezing toes, fingers, and nose. My parents have donuts and coffee in hand and cappuccino for my sister and me. It’s 5:30 am and we are boarding the bus. Madison here we come!

Justin Givens is my dad, who was a part of AFSCME since January 3, 1999. My dad started working as a Correctional Officer at Green Bay Correctional Institution. He worked there for 5 years; we then moved to Chippewa Falls, WI. When my family moved to Chippewa Falls, my dad started working at Stanley Correctional Institution where he worked for seven years as a Correctional Officer and became President of his local. My dad then transferred to Chippewa Valley Correctional Treatment Facility, where he was also president of his local. After being there two years, he stepped down from being the president of his local, from being a member of the union, and from state service. My dad never imagined after being a part of the union for 14 years that he would be searching for another job. He said being a member of the union gave the workers a collective voice and showed him that working conditions were best when everyone had a stake in it. On June 29, 2011 Governor Scott Walker proposed a bill and a lot of things changed for those who were a part of the union. When he passed Act 10, many state employees were in panic, fear, and depression.  He took away union members’ collective bargaining rights. Collective bargaining rights are negotiations set between an employer and a group of employees that cover wages, working hours, training, health and safety, and overtime.

All families should care about the union because the union provided people their weekends, gave people their fair wages and helped end child labor laws. My family was really affected by this bill that was passed. Not only did my dad face struggles but so did my family. Safety issues were a concern for my dad every day when he went to work and even at home making sure our lives were safe as well. He had a stress related heart condition soon after the Bill was passed because it was so hard on him; knowing everything he and others worked for was gone. All of his effort that he put into being a member of the union no longer meant anything. My family was affected by it substantially because my dad had to miss out on mine and my sister’s sporting events. He had to miss out on our family hobbies, holidays, and wasn’t home much to spend quality time with us. He put his heart and soul and almost all spare time into being extremely active in the statewide union and political movement.

Being active in the union applied to more than just my dad, but also my step mom, sister, and I put a lot of time into supporting the union. Each and every one of us knew the importance of what he was fighting for. We attended many union functions together. My whole family took off of work and school and went to Madison to “voice our opinion.” I wasn’t quite sure what to expect and neither was my sister! A group of people who were also a part of the union took four buses to the capital. I know my dad helped organize and fill these buses daily. When we arrived there was no time for waiting. We all got right off that bus with pride and ambition, marching into the capitol to prove a point. By going on that bus trip to Madison, I learned so much about what was happening around me and how it was affecting members of the union. By the end of the day I felt proud of what I did and knew it was worth it. I also participated in my schools “walk out” shortly after the Bill was announced. After being in Madison, I had learned more about what I was “walking out” for. I wasn’t doing it to skip class.  I was doing it to prove a point and stand up for what I believe in. I was supporting not only my dad but ALL union members.

Since I was born I’ve been affected by the union because my dad has been a part of one my whole life. After talking to my dad even while writing this essay, I’ve learned a lot about what he has been a part of and how it has affected him and his career.

From standing in the cold voicing my opinion at the capitol, to walking out of class with pride, I realized I was doing what I had been taught at the kitchen table. I was being a union activist.

 

Spread the word and encourage high school students you know to get working on an essay today!

In Solidarity,

Phil Neuenfeldt, President

Stephanie Bloomingdale, Secretary-Teasurer

InfoComm-December 10-12

Local 2 is hosting an InfoComm International class at the office December 10-12 and if offering up spots to your locals.

The exam is the Certified Technology Specialist Exam.  Basic description is you will be able to create, operate, and service AV solutions as well as conduct AV management activities which provide for the best audiovisual resolutions of the client’s needs, both on time and within budget.  For more information on InfoComm, check out their website: www.infocomm.org

Registration for this class is a long process, so if you can respond by  October 16 so we can begin registering your members.

If you have any other questions just let me know.

Thank you,

Christine

 

Christine Stephens

Theatrical Stagehands Union Local Two

216 South Jefferson Street, #400

Chicago, Il  60661

(312) 705-2020

(312) 705-2011 fax

 

USITT training @ The Univ. of Wisconsin, Green Bay. Dec. 6th – 8th

Hello everyone:

 

I wanted you to know about a USITT training @ The Univ. of Wisconsin, Green Bay. Dec. 6th – 8th 2013. They just contacted the Training Trust Fund and asked us to make locals aware training.

 

Automated Lighting, Media Server and Console Course
3 Days
December 6th – 8th, 2013
University of Wisconsin — Green Bay
Hotel Info –  Country Inn & Suites – Green Bay East (Below for details)

Day 1(12/6) 4p – 8p
Setup and troubleshooting of a complex automated lighting, and media server show.

Students will get hands on experience using the latest fixtures and media servers from High End Systems.  Topics covered will include:
– Proper rigging and cabling of fixtures
– Swapping gobo’s in fixtures
– Toubleshooting a DMX and Artnet system
– Networking for Lighting Systems

Day 2 (12/7) 8a – 8p
Hog4 Console Training
This accelerated introductory course covers the powerful High End Systems Hog 4 control software.  This new software is used on the Hog4 console, Full Boar 4, Road Hog 4, Nano Hog, and Hog4PC.  This hands-on class will use Hog 4 consoles connected to visualizers.  The class will cover the new features of the Hog4 operating system as well as the basic functions such as: patching, fixture editing, programming, timing, cuelists, scenes, effects, and much more.  There is a multitude of hands-on exercises with each section covered

Day 3 (12/8) 8a – 4p
Design and Programming exercise
Students will use the skills they learned to program lighting to a piece of music using a Hog4 console and lightconverse visualizer.  Upon completion the deign will transferred to the mainstage console and lighting rig for presentation and peer review.
 

CLICK HERE for a link to the registration page at the USITT website and as always, tell IA members to use the IA Presents promo code for the half price discount ($120).

 

Please feel free to share this with your members.

 

Best,

 

Liz

 

Liz Campos

Program Manager

IATSE Entertainment and Exhibition Industries Training Trust

10045 Riverside Drive

Toluca Lake, CA 91602

(818) 980-3499

http://iatsetrainingtrust.org

4 steps to getting covered in the Health Insurance Marketplace

September 20, 2013


How the Marketplace works: Create an account, apply, pick a plan, and enroll!

You can apply for health coverage, compare all your options, and enroll in a plan in one streamlined application through the Health Insurance Marketplace. When open enrollment begins October 1, 2013, you can fill out your application and see the health coverage options available to you.

1. Create an account

First provide some basic information. Then choose a user name, password, and security questions for added protection.

2. Apply for Marketplace coverage

Enter information about you and your family, including your income, household size, and more. Use this checklist now to help you gather the information you’ll need.

3. Pick a plan

Next you’ll see all the health insurance plans and programs you’re eligible for and compare them side-by-side. You’ll also find out if you can get lower costs on Marketplace coverage.

4. Enroll

Choose a health insurance plan that meets your needs and enroll! Coverage starts as soon as January 1, 2014.

If you need help with your Marketplace application, there are people trained and certified to help you understand your health coverage options and enroll in a plan in every state. And remember that you can contact us anytime by phone or live web chat for help with a Marketplace question.