THE STATE OF THE PGA

A number of bright spots have dotted the horizon for the Producers Guild over the past year. As this is written, we are two weeks away from the annual elections. A number of new faces have thrown their hats in the ring and it appears that there will be a very positive infusion of new blood on the Board of Directors. Additionally, plans are underway to add an executive committee. This group will be comprised of high profile members of the PGA, who may not have the inclination or the time to put in the hours required as a board member, but, can lend their expertise in an advisory capacity.

On the usually frustrating NLRB certification front, it would appear that at long last we are making inroads. Thanks to the efforts of David Levy, Mitch Matovich, Charles FitzSimons and others, we have gained the attention and empathy of some members of the house and senate. When they are apprised of the NLRB's dictatorial no recourse, no review policy, their reactions are nothing short of unabashed astonishment. The NLRB has also obliged us by responding to the subsequent congressional inquiries with customary unbending arrogance. Stay tuned.

A continuing source of pride and results has been The Events Committee. Under the spirited leadership of Charles Floyd Johnson, Diane Robison and Lee Miller, it has been instrumental in the PGAs increased efforts to raise industry awareness of not only the Guild, but, to serve as a constant reminder of the importance of all producers. Through the committee's efforts, The Golden Laurels continue to grow in importance and prestige. This year. under the helm of George Sunga, the ceremonies were expanded and moved up to the Beverly Hills Hotel Grand Ballroom. We were duly rewarded with banner front page positions in the trades and greatly expanded coverage by all the media. Next year's event promises to be even bigger and better.

Another Events Committee function, the second annual Oscar Micheaux Awards played to an SRO gathering at Kodak headquarters. The ever-active Charles F. Johnson spearheaded the salute to this year’s recipient, Ike Jones. Additionally. the PGA and DGA teamed up for a major fete to salute George Sydney. Unfortunately, the event has been postponed due to George's health. However, the two groups were so encouraged by the spirit of cooperation, that they are hoping to stage future events in tandem. Also in the planning stages is the first "An Evening With..., ", a series which would feature high profile member producers.

Diane Robison continues to set the standard for entertainment group house publications with the graphically stunning and informative POV Magazine. In addition to Industry praise, non pros have been clambering for its move into much wider circulation, a venture which may soon become a reality. The POV home page has also put the producer on the internet map. An internal newsletter edited by Jerry Jaskalski has provided members with much-needed interaction.

The struggle for recognition of The Producer's Guild, both literal and figurative, has been a long hard one, with more downs than ups. However, the past few years have seen a new vitality and some very real progress. Under Leonard Stern's dedicated leadership, there have been more new members and applications than ever before.

We feel that it is crucial for everyone to be made aware that the AMPTP is a group of production companies, not producers. . .that the AMPTP finances and distributes the product. The Producer makes the product. Without him or her, there is no product. Our battle plan has been to increase visibility and, therefore, membership and clout. A key to all of this is a greater awareness of the indispensable part that the producer plays in our industry. I'm actually beginning to think that people are starting to realize this.

John Rappaport is a member of the Board of Directors of the PGA and a member for the past twelve years.