Today we had nominations for the Officers and Executive Board of the Union for the term of January 2021 thru December 2023.  Ballots will be sent out by mail as soon as we can.   Remember that only members in good standing can vote. Members in good standing means being paid up on dues.  Here are your candidates:

Business Agent: 

  Nick Kroudis - unopposed

President: 

 Dennis Beattie

"Brothers and Sisters I have held the position of Business Agent for the last 5 years, Nick and I swapped the positions so now I am running for President, I have 32 years with WNYW in maintenance. I know the ins and outs of all areas of engineering at the station, I have worked closely with the officers of the Union and the executive board, as we all know the Company has been reluctant to deal fairly with us at the table, but the fight goes on, we will not lose what little we still have to come back with a deal. I will continue to fight on behalf of the Union “now” but the future of this Local also.

Your vote will not be in vain, I will uphold the faith I hope I deserve."

Merrill Owens

"I was nominated for President. Like many of you I have been in this business for many years. Also like you, I have seen things change quite a bit (what happen to tape machines). I'm sure you have similar stories in your department.  But we've all adjusted and adapted and we are still here. Much of my  time has been spent in master control. In fact, many of you first met me when Master Control was transitioning from Secaucus  to 67th street. They sent me over early to evaluate any potential operator issues.

Anyone who has been assigned to Master Control for any length of time over the years has probably been trained by me. Also, those of you who have made requests of Master Control  from Studio ,TOC, Ingest, Editing and Maintenance have also dealt with me. I assume  the experience was professional and uncomplicated. I take great pride in my work.

I am asking you for your support.  Master control has not been represented among the union officers since I have been a member, after the merging of WNYW and WWOR.  

Every engineering position should always have a seat at the table.

My goal is to see if we can break this stalemate between the union and the company. It has gone on for far too long.

Thanks Brothers & Sisters for allowing me the opportunity to run and potentially serve you.

If you want to touch elbows or just wave at me through the glass, you are welcome to stop by. Bring your mask. Safety first!"

Treasurer:

Donna Biglin- unopposed

Secretary:

Ryan Priest - unopposed

Executive Board - 3 members

Alan Horowitz

Sandee Larsen - Holt

"I currently work in Master Control on the 4th floor for those of you who don't know where we are hidden.

I have been part of Local 794 since 1989.

I have worked in the studio (Camera,Video & Floor Director), control room (Chyron), Tape, Ingest and Master Control for both Channel 5 and Channel 9.

I would be happy to serve on the E-board at this time. If you vote for me, I have good ideas and input and hope to help our leaders achieve their goals we want for our members. We need to keep as much as we can and get what all our hard working members deserve, especially a raise.

Thanks for considering me."

Regina Leader - McKinnis

"Greetings Brothers and Sisters of IATSE Local 794,

My name is Regina Leader McKinnis and I am asking you to consider voting for me as one of your Executive Board representatives.

I have served in this position for several years and have been a member of this local for over 3 decades. I would like the opportunity to continue fighting for the entire union.

I am a Team player and would continue to represent each member equally in every department.

Unions were formulated to protect the rights of employees and show fairness to all members and I will continue to do that if given the opportunity. "

Jimmie Mitchell

My name is Jimmie Mitchell and i'm a 3 decade veteran photographer and editor.  I would like to serve on the E board so i can bring a representation that can constructively connect the challenges of the field union positions with our in house union brothers and sisters. 

The field has lost it's solidarity.  We need to re-establish the uniformity that empowers the entire union body.  Being on the same page and supporting what is safe, contractual and beneficial to the group instead of only the individual is paramount.  This is what will endure and provide as much job security as possible for everyone

I'm seeking your vote for E Board of IATSE union local 794

Mike Moretti

"Michael Moretti, aka "Mr. Mike" as he's known around Fox 5 at 67th Street, has been a fixture at the station for the past 30 years.  He began his career in 1973 as a broadcast engineer and is currently the S.T. in T.O.C. for "Good Day New York". and in the News Department.  Through the years his hard work and dedication to detail have won him many commendations and accolades, including 2 Emmys for the on-the-spot news coverage and sports documentary.

Mike has been a staunch union member and supporter of I.A.T.S.E., Local 794, since 1973.  He served as a member of the Executive Board from 1997-2000 and is once again seeking to be elected to the Executive Board.  Mike is familiar with the entire station's operation and has been instrumental in the passing of proposals leading to substantive change at the station.  Mike Moretti will bring the same dedication, diligence and trustworthiness that have always been a part of his professional career to his Executive Board duties, should you choose to elect him.  

Remember, a vote for Mike, is a vote you'll like!

Vote Mike Moretti"

John Petrini

Naadine Sardi

"I'm running for E-Board. I've worked at WNYW for 32 years as an editor and a minute as a field camera person, so I've experienced the the daily disrespect from the company on 2 levels, I and firmly believe we need to continue to fight for what we've worked hard for, and I've always looked out for violations and will continue to do so. Together we are stronger."