VO-BB - 20 YEARS OLD!

COURVO

My co-anchor regularly appears on the original Vegas CSI as the series' Newscaster.

Now, apparently I get a similar chance.

CBS and Warner Bros. are working on a pilot called "The Odds". It's based in Vegas, and features (what I consider to be a rather tired) story line about a young-pup cop being partnered with an old salt.

I'm getting the nod to be their resident series News Anchor on the show (if it becomes a show)... mostly because KLAS-TV makes it easy for them...recording in our own news studio, and sending it off to their producer.

But the question came up whether I was union. Apparently, I won't get the gig unless I am.

In 1996 I was Taft-Hartley'd into SAG when I appeared in "Casino". That's just a one-time gig as I understand it...right? I don't remain a SAG member beyond the production run.

THIS production wants me to get Taft-Hartley'd as an AFTRA member.

Most who know me, know that I've been reluctant to unionize for lack of a compelling reason, and because I'm so disappointed in the internecine fighting between the two talent unions.

But now...with this carrot dangling in front of me...I may make the jump. I'd say a recurring gig on a TV series is a 'compelling' reason....no?

Here's my question: Can I just legitimately ask for a Fi-Core membership right from the get-go....or do I first have to become a full member, then switch to Fi-Core?

Any insights appreciated.

CourVO
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todd ellis · Posted: Thu Mar 18, 2010 5:24 am Post subject:

no insights - but that is VERY cool - and i would say, yes ... compelling.

congrats!
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bobsouer · Posted: Thu Mar 18, 2010 6:31 am Post subject:

Dave,

Based on stories I've heard first hand, yes, you can start your relationship with AFTRA as financial core. They union won't like that very much and may give you some static about it, but that's to be expected.
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voicy1stef · Posted: Thu Mar 18, 2010 6:39 am Post subject:

Congrats on this opening Dave. Do what you gotta do to make it work for you!
It's wonderful, you deserve it! Smile

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Lizden · Posted: Thu Mar 18, 2010 6:39 am Post subject:

HOW COOL!

Yes, compelling indeed.
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roger · Posted: Thu Mar 18, 2010 6:57 am Post subject:

Dave,
What a terrific opportunity for you, but why does life have to be so complicated?
You know the ultimate source for answers to life's questions.
You'll make the right decision, of that I'm sure.
Looking forward to hearing more.
-roger
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Bruce · Posted: Thu Mar 18, 2010 7:09 am Post subject:

When the likely income from union work far outweighs the fees and "other" costs of membership, then it certainly is worth joining...and then going ficore if you still want to do mostly non-union work.

B
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Lizden · Posted: Thu Mar 18, 2010 7:15 am Post subject:

What Bruce said. Laugh

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Chuck Davis · Posted: Thu Mar 18, 2010 9:31 am Post subject:

Cool opportunity Dave!
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scottnilsen · Posted: Thu Mar 18, 2010 10:06 am Post subject:

Nice!
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Gp · Guest

Break a Leg Dave.

Diane Maggipinto · Posted: Thu Mar 18, 2010 10:42 am Post subject:

Book 'em, Courvo! Hope it works out.

FTR, would someone succinctly explain FiCore? Thanks.
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Lee Gordon · Posted: Thu Mar 18, 2010 11:42 am Post subject:

Dave, if it's any consolation, AFTRA and SAG are starting to play nice with each other again. So go for it!
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asnively · Posted: Thu Mar 18, 2010 12:28 pm Post subject:

WOW!
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Eddie Eagle · M&M Joined: 23 Apr 2008 Posts: 2393

GO COURVO!