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AFM Local 47 statement on Janus decision

Today’s disappointing Supreme Court decision in Janus v. AFSCME ruled in favor of a corporate interest power-grab over working Americans and their unions.

Wealthy special interest groups spent millions of dollars on this case with the express intent to diminish working people’s numbers in union representation. Breaking a precedent set over 40 years ago, public-sector workers who are not union members but are protected by a union contract are now told they do not have to pay their fair share. The goal was clear: to undercut unions’ abilities to effectively advocate and negotiate on behalf of their members, weaken their position at the bargaining table, and undermine all of organized labor — all at the expense of working people. Continue reading →

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Killer Klowns From Outer Space 30th anniversary celebration

Commemorating the 30th Anniversary of cult classic “Killer Klowns From Outer Space,” a special live-to-picture performance and fan tribute took place May 19, 2018 at the Montalban Theater in Hollywood.

America’s fascination with “Killer Klowns From Outer Space” began on screen in 1988, as a group of clown-like aliens land their trans-dimensional space ship and terrorize a small American town. The film has achieved cult status with its clever blend of horror, science fiction and comedy. Continue reading →

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Final Note: Donald Knapp

Life Member. Drum Set
12/26/1919 – 6/11/2018

Donald Roy Knapp was born December 26, 1919, in Minneapolis, Minnesota. He passed away peacefully in Chicago on June 11, 2018 after recovering from two recent hip fractures. He was the son of Roy Cecil Knapp and Nellie Johnson (Knapp) Shillito. He was married to Lorie Downs (deceased in 1975); and to Kimberly Granger (divorced). Continue reading →

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General Membership Meeting: July 23, 2018

At our next General Membership Meeting we are excited to kick off our new Guest Speaker Series. Please join us for a presentation by SAG-AFTRA Los Angeles Local President Jane Austin, who will speak about the union’s recent video game campaign win, and share ideas and thoughts regarding organizing and motivating members. Don’t miss it!

On the agenda (subject to change):

  • Special Guest Speaker Jane Austin, President, SAG-AFTRA Los Angeles
  • Presentation of 50-Year Pins
  • Resolution to Amend the Bylaws
    (Resolution published in the Summer 2018 issue of Overture Magazine, also
    available in our pdf Overture archive in the members section at afm47.org)
  • Officer Reports
  • Old and New Business

Location: AFM Local 47 Room 7
3220 Winona Ave. Burbank CA 91504

Open to all members in good standing.
Food & refreshments will be served.

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Sound Recording Special Payments Fund: Annual Distribution Reminders

The Sound Recording Special Payments Fund is preparing for its annual distribution, which occurs on or about August 1, 2018. We would like to share the following information with participants:

  • Address or beneficiary changes – Deadline for changes is July 15, 2018.
  • Direct Deposit Applications – Deadline for application to be received at the Fund is June 30, 2018. Direct Deposit ensures that the Fund distribution reach musicians safely and efficiently, wherever they reside.

We encourage all participants to become registered users at the Fund’s website. Utilizing the website significantly helps to reduce the Fund’s administrative costs, which ultimately benefits all of us! At the website you can arrange for direct deposit, update contact and beneficiary information, view your prior wage and tax statements and get the latest news regarding the Fund.

Toll-Free Number: (866) 711-FUND
Fax: (212) 310-9481

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Final Note: Katia Popov

Member. Violin
3/3/1965 – 5/18/2018

Katia Popov passed away on May 18, 2018 from a three-year battle with Ovarian Cancer and left an empty void where she carved her mark. Her determination to beat the disease mirrored her determination to become the best violinist in the world. Although she is no longer physically with us, her music has created a ripple effect that will never leave the musical community or her biggest fans, friends and family. Katia’s devotion to the violin and her love for music was apparent and contagious. She did not shy away from the stage and performing was her natural calling. Learning how to read notes before she could read the alphabet, music was in Katia’s heart and soul. She did not just play music, she played music through her entire being to deliver an experience so ethereal, audiences would be instantly captivated. Not only did her talent leave a lasting impression on anyone lucky enough to watch her perform, but also her personality lit up a room and made people feel warm and welcome in her presence. Continue reading →

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Legacy of a Leader: Serena Kay Williams

Secretary/Treasurer Emeritus Serena Kay Williams holds Local 47 dedication day programs from 1950 and 2018, both of which she attended. (photo by Tom Pease)

Serena Kay Williams made history as the first woman officer of AFM Local 47 when she was elected Secretary in 1984, a position she held until her retirement in 2007. Here we recall her legacy as a trailblazing musicians advocate and union leader.

Serena Kay Williams was born April 9, 1921 in Kansas City, Missouri. Serena’s father, who was born in Liverpool, England, came from a musical family. In fact, Jascha Heifetz was her grandfather’s nephew. Her mother, who came from Russia, also counted many artists in her family. Serena’s parents owned a deli in Kansas City. Their cooking was so renowned that her father was crowned the “Chili King of Kansas City” using her mother’s recipe.

When Serena was 4 her parents moved to Los Angeles because of her mother’s health. Serena cared for her mother, who was very ill, and even was issued a special driver’s license at the age of 12 so she could take her mother back and forth to the hospital. Continue reading →

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Final Note: Leon Ndugu Chancler

Life Member. Drum Set
7/1/1952 – 2/3/2018

by Washington Rucker, Life Member, AFM Local 47

We have lost a giant in the music world, and more directly, a great musician.

My best friend, Ndugu Chancler, was one of only a hand full of drummers who could be recognized by a single name: Ndugu. His moniker was well deserved and well earned. He stood tall among the genre of drummers who spring up… and he stood atop most of them. Continue reading →

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