sunday, march 18 11 a.m., local 5

Official Publication of the Detroit Federation of Musicians – Local 5, AFM, AFL-CIO

Volume 80 Number 1Q1, 2018

w

Local 5 Nominating/

Membership Meeting

Sunday, March 1811 a.m., Local 5

Home of the Pros

Benjamin L. Pruitt, Sr.Nicholas Waselowich

Keynote

Member Newsline, pages 8–9

Elma Santa (aka Dixie Belle)

Welcome, New Members,

pages 14–15

Closing Chord,page 26

LIVE Links to What’s in This Issue

The Music Stand. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1

2018 Local 5 Election Notification . . . . . .1

WindWords . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3

Sample Authorization Form . . . . . . . . . . .7

Member Newsline . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8–9

DMF Music of Giving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10

Classified Advertisements . . . . . . . . . . .10

AFM Unfair List Information . . . . . . . . .12

Welcome, New Members . . . . . . . .14–15

Local 5 Support Line . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15

Member Directory Changes . . . . . . . . .16

AmazonSmile $$$ for Local 5 . . . . . . . .17

MusiCares for Music People . . . . . . . . .17

Comedy Corner. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17

Obtaining Your IRS Records . . . . . . . . . .17

About eBilling Notification . . . . . . . . . . .16

TEMPO Contributions. . . . . . . . . . . . . .18

DFM Referral Gigs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18

Membership Survey . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18

Making Sure to Receive Your Dues Bills 18

Executive Board Minutes . . . . . . . .19–25

Closing Chord . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26

Local 5 Office Closings• Monday, February 19: Presidents’ Day• Friday, March 30: Spring Holiday

March 18, SundayLocal 5 General Meeting (see details above)

March 23, FridayClosing deadline for Campaign/2nd quarter Keynote materials

April 2, MondayDue date for 2nd quarter dues

Note earler-than-usual March 23 closing deadline

for Keynote materials.

Calendar of Local 5 Events

11:00 a.m.: Nominating Meeting

11:30: General Membership Meeting

12:30 pm: Candidates’ Meeting

SuNDAy, MArCh 18LOCAL 5 hOSPItALIty rOOM

General Membership Meeting +

These fine folks helped bring you this issue of Keynote. Your support will assure their continued advertising.

Bugs Beddow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25Detroit Musicians Fund . . . . . . . . . . . . 13Johnny Rodriguez . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4McKenzie Legacy Excellence Awards 22WSU Music Department. . . . . . . . . . . 11

Our Advertisers

Keynote1st Quarter 2018

• Local 5’s 2018 ELECtION PrEvIEw: Nominating, Annual Membership, Candidates’ Meeting details, pages 1–2

• President troia remembers two leading music educators in “the Music Stand,” page 1

• Special event for longtime member Phil Grameno, page 8

Special Features in This Issue

Keynote u 1st Quarter 2018 u 1

continued on page 2

“Don’t know much about history, don’t know much biology, don’t know much about a science book, don’t know much about the French I took, but I do know that I love you, And I do know that if you loved me too, what a wonderful world this would be….” (Lou Adler, Sam Cooke, Herb Alpert)

For me, thinking about education leads me to this song, recorded many times by many different artists, empha-

sizing what we don’t know – and education is the path to finding those answers. I also like the part about knowing when we love something – gives me a good feeling.

In this edition of “The Music Stand,” I will inform you about some educational opportunities that I believe will be available in the coming new year, as well as reflect on two of our members from the educational community who re-

The Music Standby

George Troia, Jr.Local 5

President

Know and Don’t Know

At the AFL-CIO state convention: President George Troia (left), with Richard L. Trumpka, national AFL-CIO president.

continued on page 2

Nominating Meeting

11:00 am, Sunday, March 18, 2018Local 5 Headquarters, Southfield, MI

Candidates may be nominated for the following positions: President

Vice-PresidentSecretary-Treasurer

Five (5) members of the Executive Board of DirectorsConvention Delegate

Eligibility

All Members who are US or Canadian citizens are eligible to run for office as long as they have been a member in good standing for at least one year before the Nominating Meeting and have not been convicted of a flagrant viola-tion of the Constitution, Bylaws or Price List during the same period.

Candidates not in attendance at the Nominating Meet-ing must have an authorized representative present, with proof of that authorization in hand that has been complet-ed and signed by the candidate. (See Sample Authorization Form on page 7.)

Annual Membership Meeting

The Annual General Membership Meeting will immedi-ately follow the Nominating Meeting (at approximately 11:30 am) on March 18, 2018, at Local 5 Headquarters, as indicated above.

Candidates’ Meeting

A short meeting to explain the election process will be held immediately following the General Membership Meeting (approximately 12:30 pm).

The order of the Candidates’ Names on the ballots will be determined by “drawing numbers from a hat” at the Candi-dates’ meeting. Candidates not in attendance must have their authorized representative present for the drawing.

All members may receive an electronic or hard copy version of the Local 5 Election Guidelines by contacting the union office.

2018 Local 5 Election Notification


Editor George Troia, Jr.

Managing Editor Susan Barna AyoubGraphic Designer

Virginia L. HuntProduced via

Adobe Acrobat ProPublished by

Detroit Federation of Musicians Local 5,

American Federation of Musicians

Keynote Ad rates Full page $225.00 2/3 page $155.00 1/2 page $120.00 1/3 page $80.00 1/4 page $60.00 1/6 page $40.00 1/8 page $30.00

25% discount to members All ads must be

union compliant.Call for rate card and full details.

Materials deadlines: January 15, April 15, July 15, October 15

LOCAL 5 COMMIttEESDSO Orchestra Committee: Jeremy Epp (chair), Hunter Eberly, Haden McKay, Stephen Molina, Robert Stiles

Development Committee: George Troia, Susan Barna Ayoub, Alonza McKenzie, Patrick Zelenak

Scale Committee: George Troia, Alan Ayoub, Susan Barna Ayoub, Alonza McKenzie

≥

the Music Stand, continued from page 1

cently passed. I will also provide some new information regarding proposed legislation, which could help Defined Benefit Pension plans like our AFM-EPF. But before I get going, let me take this opportunity to wish you and yours a very Happy and Prosperous New Year!

Educational Comeback?

Over the past two decades it is no secret that many arts programs have either been reduced or totally elimi-nated. Many districts simply do not have classes in the fine arts. The De-troit Public Schools, now called the Detroit Public Schools Community District (DPSCD), most notably.

The article, “Creative Comeback: Detroit public schools working to bring back art, music classes,” Detroit Free Press, Nov 30, 2017, cites efforts to revive these programs. At a recent meeting of the Detroit Federation of Teachers, AFT Local 231, Retiree

Chapter, I had the opportunity to meet Dr. Nikolai Vitti, the new DPSCD superintendent. He spoke to the en-tire membership about his plans to improve the schools, and he spoke to me specifically about bringing back the high level of music education that produced several generations of pro-fessional musicians and music educa-tors. To start, he offered any retired teacher who was interested an op-portunity to do that in any capacity – full-time, part-time or as an occa-sional volunteer.

One activity that I have enjoyed doing since becoming Local 5 Presi-dent is visiting various high schools and middle schools to coach, give les-sons and inform students about what a musician’s union does. An infor-mal survey of my own revealed that a good part of our membership is or was involved in music education in some capacity. If it is your desire to

continued on page 5

KeynoteKeynote Campaign Issue

All Candidates may submit campaign statements of up to two hundred (200) words (text only) and an optional headshot (picture), to be printed in the Campaign (2nd Quarter) Keynote Issue. Campaign Statements must be submitted by midnight 5 days after the Candidates’ Meeting (March 23, 2018). No paid campaign advertise-ment will be accepted.

NOTE: Members who have indi-cated their email address be kept con-fidential will not receive campaign

emails. Likewise, members who have requested that their physical address be kept confidential will not receive mailed campaign materials. The Elec-tion Committee recommends that these members contact the union to make a temporary change to this sta-tus, in order to be kept as informed as possible throughout the campaign weeks.

Important: Members must be in good standing as of March 31, 2018, in order to vote.

2018 Election Notification, continued from page 1


President George Troia, Jr., ext. 1

[email protected] President

Douglas Cornelsen [email protected]

Susan Barna Ayoub, ext. 3 [email protected]

Executive Board Ralphe Armstrong Robert Lymperis

Lynne Marie Mangan Alonza McKenzie Patrick Zelenak

A.F. of M. Convention Delegate Michael McGowan

David Horger – AlternatePresident Emeritus

Gordon StumpDME referral Agent Mary Johnstone, ext. 4

[email protected] [email protected]

Membership Administration Membership, ext. 0

[email protected] 5 Agent

Ralphe Armstrong [email protected]

Address & telephone 20833 Southfield Road, Suite 103

Southfield, Michigan 48075 248.569.5400Fax Number

General Office: 248.569.4716website

www.detroitmusicians.nethours

Monday – Friday, 10 am – 4 pmholiday Closings

New Year’s Day, M.L. King Day, Presidents’ Day, Good Friday,

Memorial Day, July 4, Labor Day, Columbus Day, Election Day,

Thanksgiving Day and Friday after, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day,

New Year’s EveAll views and opinions expressed in

Keynote articles by non-elected mem-bers are those of the authors them-selves and do not necessarily reflect the opinions or policy of the Keynote staff or the Board of Directors of the

Detroit Federation of Musicians.continued on page 4

As an officer of Local 5, it is my regular responsibility to at-

tend conferences with local officers from other AFM locals. Among other things, this allows me the good for-tune to compare notes with other secretary-treasurers around the AFM. We discuss the challenges of a job that is really a merging of two disparate positions, and that also involves over-seeing the 21st century technological challenges of the union office, inter-facing with the national AFM and, most importantly, counseling mem-bers when they are met with unfor-tunate personal and/or professional distress. It is a huge, complex honor you’ve bestowed on me for the past 15 years.

Local 5 Bassist to the rescue

If you read my column, you will have noticed that my husband Al volun-teers a lot of his time to the union. Well, I’m pleased to let you know that, for the first time, I have an assis-tant at Local 5! He is Local 5 member, Dan Kolton. Better known as an ac-complished bass player, Dan is taking on a multi-faceted role as my assistant. Some days he’s wrestling with our good-quality but somewhat-outdated phone system. Others he’s researching and implementing computer system security to keep us ahead of those

who would hack systems big and small, keeping our software updated, etc, etc. I’m grateful to the board for approving this opportunity to let me “breathe.”

Protecting your Most valuable Equipment

On a different note, you may re-member that this fall I expressed be-ing hopeful to get a “hearing” clinic, possibly funded by MusiCares. There have been a few glitches in getting this to happen. But, I also did not have a clear enough vision of the purpose of such a clinic.

While in Chicago recently, my hus-band Al had an appointment with Dr Michael Santucci, who is a pioneer in the field of protecting the hearing of musicians. The idea is to raise musi-cians’ awareness of the importance of protecting one of the most important natural tools they have: their sense of hearing. (And, as you probably know, this is not an issue for rock bands only. It is of significant necessity to every-one!)

Toward that end, the clinic would administer a hearing test designed for musicians and take complimen-tary ear impressions for the purpose of making free custom ear plugs that are specialized for musicians. Because they are custom-fit to each ear, they are exponentially more effective at protecting your ears from exposure to loud sound. They are soft silicone earpieces that allow you to have natu-ral sound quality, better fit and long-wearing comfort.

There are various choices of sound reduction filters that bring down the

AFM Local 5“Home of the Pros”by Susan

Barna Ayoub,Local 5

Secretary-Treasurer


windwords, continued from page 3

On January 25, an unusually great Metro Day conference was presented by the AFL-CIO at the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers on Porter Street in Detroit. L–r: yours truly; Dorethea Brown-Maxey, president of Local 43 of the National Association of Broadcast Employees and Technicians; Lo-cal 5 President George Troia; and Deborah Dodd, treasurer of the American Federation of Government Employees. Both of these amazing ladies and their locals are terrific activists, in addition to being tenants in Local 5’s building. After seeing numerous resources, including software tools for engaging with others more effectively, I am very excited to get to know and use these tools!

Percussionist Johnny RodRiguez JR.

AvA i lAble for Any sty le of mus ic ••• j r c onga@gma i l . c om 248 .996 .4219

decibel level to where you need it. What MusiCares needs to see

in order to consider funding such a clinic is significant prior interest. So, please call me (248-569-5400, ext 3) or email me ([email protected]) if this is something you are interested in participating in. Maybe the cost would be covered by Musi-Cares, maybe it would be covered by you.

In any event, I need your input.Tell me: 1) Would you make an effort to participate in a clinic like this? 2) Would you find it important enough that you would consider paying the top professional in this specialized area $200, if MusiCares would not cover it? This one is up to you!



consider becoming a professional music educator, and have left the field or would like to return, contact me at Local 5 and I will make the necessary introductions for you.

Many musicians and performers in all entertainment fields started their careers in the Detroit Public Schools – too many to name them all here – but some that come to mind are Diana Ross, Dennis Edwards, Paul Riser, Paul Chambers, James Jamerson, Ida and Annie Kafavian, Re-gina Carter, James Carter, Michael Ouzounian, Cathy Compton, John Trudell, James Waring, Paul Wingert … a list that could fill a book! It would be a shame not to en-hance that legacy.

two Notable Music Educators and Musicians

During the last quarter, we lost two very notable members of our Local, both of whom had a profound influence on our musical community.

Benjamin L. Pruitt, Sr. (1940-2017), was a long-time music educator, first in his native Arkansas, but mainly for the Detroit Public Schools, teaching at Wilson Middle School, Henry Ford High School, and Cass Technical High School. He was Instrumental Music Supervisor and, later, overall Music Supervisor for the Detroit Public School sys-

tem. He also played saxophone and led his Ben’s Friends Big Band for many years. He was a long-time member of Local 5 and served on the Election Committee in 2015.

I had the pleasure of working under Ben during his ten-ure as Supervisor and found him a real asset as a colleague. He was innovative, instituting a system-wide method book to address the problem of students frequently going from one school to another, which was an ongoing trend in the DPS system. He also reinstituted the All-City Band pro-gram, taking the marching unit to the Rose Parade and prominently featuring them in our own Thanksgiving Day Parade.

When the system started to close schools during the 2008 recession, he put out a call for help at the district warehouse, where many of us showed up (unpaid) for sev-eral days to help him sort through the hundreds of instru-ments and supplies from the closed buildings.

It was no surprise to see an overflowing crowd of musi-cians, students, colleagues and acquaintances at Ben’s ser-vice giving testimony to just how many lives he touched.

Nicholas Waselowich (1926-2017) was a 67-year member of Local 5 and performed as violist in many or-chestral settings including the Detroit Symphony, Michi-gan Opera Theatre, Fisher, and Pine Knob orchestras. He

continued on page 6

Benjamin L. Pruitt, Sr.

Nicholas Waselowich


was also a string specialist for the Detroit Public Schools for more than 30 years.

He was a very kind person and it was always a pleasure working with him. When I was asked to take the string slot at a couple of the schools I was teaching at, I went to Nick for guidance and audited a couple of his classes. I was very appreciative of the knowledge he shared to help me be successful. He was always a positive force – be it in the studio, pit or the classroom.

Rest in peace, both of you – except when you raise your musical voices in the heavens! May God Bless.

Butch Lewis Act of 2017

You may have recently received an email from Internation-al President Ray Hair urging your support for this new bill introduced in the Senate by Senator Sherrod Brown (D) Ohio and in the House by Representative Richard Neal (D) Massachusetts, which addresses several strategies to help Defined Benefit Pension Plans like our AFM-EPF. The act itself is named after Teamster pensioner Butch Lewis. In short, it calls for the establishment of a department of the treasury, entitled the Pension Rehabilitation Administra-tion, which would have the ability to issue bonds to guar-antee loans to help pension funds that are in distress to continue to pay full benefits to pensioners. The idea has been talked about over the past couple of years, but this is the first time a beneficial plan has been articulated since the passage of the 2014 Multi Employer Pension Reform Act. The bill also contains provisions to address plans that have already been granted plan approval under this bill.


(L-R): Tyler Schrieber, Local 5’er Dennis Nulty, George Troia, Eric Rich and Elizabeth Schrieber at Tuba Christmas 2017.

President George Troia (2nd from right) at the AFL-CIO state conven-tion held at UAW Region 1-A in Warren in January; IATSE Local 38 Business Rep. Joe Miller (far right) was also in attendance, along with state officers from around the state.

Please refer to the following links for more information: • BUTCH+LEWIS+ACT+OF+2017+SUMMARY.pdf • BUTCH+LEWIS+ACT+OF+2017+FAQs.pdf

Looking Ahead for 2018

The March 18 Annual Meeting will be proceeded by our Tri-Annual Nominating Meeting for the 2018–21 term for election of officers here at Local 5. Please see the notice for call-to-election in this Keynote and follow the guide-lines. For me, I am grateful for your membership and enjoy working to make life better for musicians. I look forward to a future of prosperity and great music!


2018 Election Notification, continued from page 2

Sample Authorization Form Candidates not in attendance at Local 5’s Nominating Meeting on Sunday, March 18, must have an authorized repre-sentative present, with proof of authorization in hand that has been completed and signed by the candidate. The official authorization form appears below.

Keynote u 4th Quarter 2017 u 8Keynote u 1st Quarter 2018 u 8

Member Newsline

we want to hear your news, too. Simply contact Sue Barna Ayoub.

you don’t have to write a thing, but anything you do write would

be gratefully appreciated.

Local 5 bandleader and drummer Phil Grameno celebrated his 90th birthday on December 28. In honor of the occasion, his church, St. Thomas Orthodox Church in Farmington Hills, catered a special dinner with an even more special themed cake.

Phil is known for his loyal support of the annual 30/50-Year Party, to which he contributes generously as a federation sponsor. Congratulations, Phil, and many happy returns.

Local 5 keyboardist Pam wise performed at PACE River-town last December 12 as part of the Music Performance Trust Fund sponsorship of 10 performances at nursing homes and senior centers this fiscal year; this was for the MPTF Musician Fest 2017. Mary Johnstone and President Troia facilitated the single performer concerts at several of the facilities that have had these events before.


Monday, February 26 Neal Campbell is guest soloist on tuba with the Wayne State University Wind Ensemble at the Max.

Sunday, March 18 James Tatum’s foundation sponsors its 31st annual Jazz & Classical Benefit Concert at the Max M. Fisher Music Center.

Member Newsline, continued

upcoming Events of Local 5 Members

Friday, September 7 Alonza McKenzie’s InAccord hosts its 12th annual Legacy Excellence Awards at Fellowship Chapel, Detroit. (Ad on page 22.)

whAtEvEr hAPPENED tO JOhN BALDOrI?

Local 5 trumpeter walter white (left) had a recent chance meeting with 98-year-old (yes, 98!) retired Local 5 trumpeter John Baldori at the home of John’s son Bob. Walter explains that “Boogie” Bob Baldori is a musician/attor-ney and his friend and neighbor in Okemos.

“John and I had a great time reminiscing about gigs and he had plenty of stories,” says Walter. John booked Ice Follies shows and pit bands, etc., back in the day while working at Ford. He played with the bands of Nuccilli, Trudell, Vitale, and many others.


Detroit Musicians FunD’s

the Music oF GivinG

Would you like to help support music scholarships or a fellow member of Local 5 who is struggling with an emergency situation? Members can make tax-deductible donations to the Detroit Musicians Fund in two ways:

Monetary giftsSend by mail to Local 5 Headquarters. For more information, you may contact the fund either via email at [email protected] or call 248-569-5400, ext. 3.

Contributions in 4th Quarter

TOTAL = $397.00

Plus, Mrs. Anne-Marie Matchulat donated $50 as

part of regular ongoing donations in memory of her

late husband, Local 5 member Ernie Matchulat.

This is a free service to Local 5 members. Cost to others offering or seeking musical products or services is 30¢

a word. Submit to Susan Barna Ayoub at Local 5 ([email protected]).

Classified Ads

NICK WASELOWICH INSTRUMENTS, ETC.

> VIOLINS FOR SALE:

• 3/4 size Twinkle violin from Shar with bow and case. Violin, bow and case in very good condition. $75.

• Full size violin made in Germany with bow and case. Good condition. $150

• Full-size Mihaly Bodak 1931 violin with case. Violin in very good condtion. Case in fair condition. $75.

Contact Cindy Aluia, 586.978.1993 or [email protected]

> VIOLAS FOR SALE: • Charles W. Gadd, MI, 1981, 16-3/4", bow/case

$5,900.• William Slaby, MI, William Tertis model, 1976,

16-3/4", with bow/case, $3,900.• Frederick Wunderlich bow, $500.Contact Nancy Waselowich, 586.524.5306

CAMERONS MUSIC has established a trumpet col-lection that is exceptional. The inventory includes new Bach Trumpets that were handpicked and tested for the soundand range expected from the BACH name. In-cluded is the full Andalusian line.The Passion model is a magnificent horn as tested and consulted by Arturo Sandival. The vintage collection of horns and mouth-pieces includes Buescher, Besson and Schilke. Also in-cluded are Conn and Muck horns. Please consider our collection as a realistic and fair-priced studio.

Contact Local 5 member Howard F. Kagen, instruc-tor and consultant: 248.207.7020.

• Ethan Allen

• Alan Ayoub

• Susan Ayoub

• Robert Bergman

• David Booker

• Cristina Buciu

• Richard Cieslowski

• Keith Claeys

• Frederick Di Censo

• John Dorsey

• Ronald Fischer

• McKinley Jackson

• Victoria King

• Gregory Knas

• Laurence Liberson

• Laurence Liberson

• Gayelynn McKinney

• Glenn Mellow

• Eugene Page

• Barbara Robinson

• Elizabeth Rowin

• Dennis Tini

• George Troia Jr

• David Wagner

• Derrick Williams

• Barbara ZmichwhEN yOu NEED tO KNOw...

Our Local 5 bylaws, directories, agreements and much more can be found on our website (detroitmusicians.net) in the Members area. Be-cause these are all updated as soon as there are revisions, you now have instant access to the very latest Local 5 data out there.


Department of Music

Located within a major research institution and a short walk from concert halls, galleries and museums, the department offers unmatched opportunities to study with an outstanding faculty of performers and scholars

The Wayne State University Department of Music gives you access to excellence

undergraduate concentrations PerformanceMusic EducationComposition Jazz StudiesMusic Technology Music BusinessBachelor of Arts in Music

7 graduate and certificate concentrations PerformanceJazz PerformanceTheory/Composition Conducting Master of Arts in MusicGraduate Certificate in Orchestra Studies

6

visit music.wayne.edu for more information

Study with members of the Detroit Symphony Orchestra and Michigan Opera Theatre orchestra, as well as Detroit’s most acclaimed classical and jazz performers

Perform at the Max M. Fisher Music Center, home of the Detroit Symphony Orchestra


Dear Member,

The Federation has placed Steve Trudell and Trudell Orchestras on AFM’s Interational Unfair List at the request of 23 locals (Atlanta, Baltimore, Boston, Buffalo, Chicago, Cleveland, Cincinnati, Dallas, Denver, Eastern Connecticut, Hartford, Houston, Indianapolis, Jacksonville, Kansas City, Los Angeles, North Shore [Lynn, MA], Miami, New Orleans, New York, Phoenix, Pittsburgh, Rochester, Saratoga Springs, St. Louis, Washington, D.C.).

The locals have a primary dispute with Trudell because he engages musicians within the locals’ service areas at rates of pay and under conditions that are substandard and therefore unacceptable. Trudell also refuses to provide pension and health contributions. If you are offered work with or for Trudell, please contact us with the details by emailing [email protected].

Musicians standing together have the power.

In Unity,Ray HairAFM International President

Local 5 CommentThe “Trudell Orchestras,” which are indicated in the AFM Unfair List Notification (above), are NOT affiliated with any bands or orchestras hired by Local 5 members-in-good-standing John Trudell and Jeff Trudell. The Detroit Federation of Musicians, Local 5, is not named in the AFM’s notification because it was not requested of us. However, we are in agreement, and we ask all Local 5 members to comply with the Unfair List. If you are offered work with or for Steve Trudell, contact the AFM with the details by emailing them at [email protected].

Keynote is your newsletter, now available in COLOr via email and at

www.detroitmusicians.net.We value your input and welcome your

articles and ideas. Contact us at 248.569.5400, ext. 0.

Nominating and General Membership

MeetingSunday, March 18

11:00 am: Nominating Meeting11:30 am: General Membership Meeting

12:30 pm: Candidates’ Meeting

LoCAL 5 HoSpitALity RooM

AFM Bylaws Pertaining to the Unfair List

AFM Bylaws, Art 8, Sec 3. Members shall not render musical services for organizations, establishments, or people who are listed on the International Unfair List. Further, Members shall not render musical services with or for people who are listed on the International Unfair List nor with or for people who have been employed by, are principals of, or are otherwise associated with organizations or establishments that are listed on the International Unfair List. Any member who violates this Section shall be subject to penalties in accordance with Article 11, Section 13 [See Article 13, Section 4].

Keynote u 1st Quarter 2018 u 13Keynote u 3rd Quarter 2014 u 19

• Alleviating hardship with financial aid to struggling musicians

• Easing the difficulties of disabled musicians through grants

• Partnering with MPTF to serve the community at large

• Supporting promising music students through scholarships

Proudly ServingLOCAL 5...

To learn more: [email protected]

248.569.5400, ext. 3


Welcome, New Members

DENSMOrE, DIONtE 23632 Coach House RoadSouthfield, MI [email protected]

Dionte is a hardworking musician who takes his craft very seriously. Always punctual for gigs, he works well with all people and enjoys helping upcoming musicians succeed. He is seeking work in local gigs – for genres including R&B, jazz, fusion, funk, hip/hop and gospel.

hACKNEy, ANtOINE278 Orchard Lake RoadPontiac, MI [email protected], violin

LEwIS, SArAh 951 Roslyn Rd.Grosse Pointe Woods, MI [email protected], English horn

Sarah is the new Second Oboe with the Detroit Symphony. Prior to her time at the DSO, Sarah served as Second Oboe of the Toronto Symphony Orchestra. A native of Petos-

key, Michigan, Sarah made weekly trips to the Interlo-chen Arts Academy during high school to study with Daniel Stolper. She com-pleted her undergraduate degree at Michigan State University, where she was awarded the Louis Sudler Prize for outstanding achievement in the Arts. Sarah received her master’s

degree from the Juilliard School – and participated in the Chautauqua Music Festival and the Tanglewood Music Festival, where she was a recipient of the Mickey L. Hoo-ten Memorial Award. Sarah teaches oboe and English horn.

MOOrE, ShANtIQuE29670 Middlebelt, Unit 1201Farmington Hills, MI [email protected], flute

Shantanique is a hard-working, reliable musi-cian who is seeking or-chestral and solo work, as well as private events.

tOErING, ANDrEw8860 Chestnut Run DrShelby Twp, MI [email protected], guitar, string/double bass, drums, piano, keyboard, euphonium, trombone, trumpet

Andrew is a musician who is equally comfortable in the classical, theater and pop worlds. He has a strong practical

continued on page 15


knowledge of theory and improvises. In addition, he com-poses and arranges and has a strong background in music technology, specifically with live sound and studio record-ing. Currently seeking work in musical theatre, touring shows, orchestra and pop/rock groups, Andrew also teaches the instruments on which he performs.

SIGurDSON, StEvEN1614 Pontiac TrailAnn Arbor, MI 48105708-205-4212stevensigurdson.comstringseeds.orgstevensigurdson@gmail.comCello, string/double bass

Steven is a Juilliard graduate, a cellist for three seasons with the New World Symphony and Associate Principal Cellist of the Florida

Philharmonic for 13 seasons. He has an MBA from the University of Chicago and is a trained Suzuki Method Cello teacher.

welcome, New Members, continued from page 14

The orchestras and theaters listed below support the musi-cians of Local 5 through collective bargaining agreements.The groups and individual players likewise comply with the Local 5 policy by filing contracts, steward reports and work dues. Please support all of them in return.

CLUBS/SINGLE ENGAGEMENTS/FESTIVALS

bugs Beddow & the GooD STuFF: reverbnation.com/bugsbeddowband

Feb. 3: Danny J’s Brick Tavern, Utica, 9 pm; 586.991.0407

Mar. 10: Danny J’s Brick Tavern, Utica, 9 pm; 586.991.0407

Mar. 17: Bentley’s Roadhouse, Harrison Twp., 9 pm; 586.465.3663

Apr. 7: Danny J’s Brick Tavern, Utica, 9 pm; 586.991.0407

OPERA AND THEATER PERFORMANCES

Feb. 8–11: Michigan Opera Theatre, Romeo & Juliet; 313.237.SING [7464]; michiganopera.org

Feb. 27–Mar. 11: Fisher Theatre, Les Miserables; 800.982.2787; broadwayindetroit.com

Apr. 13: Fox Theatre, Celtic Woman; 313.471.3211; olympiaentertainment.com

ORCHESTRAL & OTHER CLASSICAL ENSEMBLE PERFORMANCESFeb. 21: Chamber Music at the Scarab Club,

“Americans in Paris”; 248.474.8930; scarabclub.org/chambermusic

Feb. 24: Livonia Symphony, “New Horizons”; 734.421.1111; livoniasymphony.org

Feb. 25: Dearborn Symphony, “A Musical Journey!”; 313.565.2424; dearbornsymphony.org

Mar. 4: Grosse Pointe Symphony, “Lucas, Mozart & Saint-Saens,” featuring Local 5 member Adam Stepniewski, violin, and son Joachim; 313.640.1773; gpsymphony.org

Apr. 6–7: Detroit Symphony, “Strauss & Wagner,” featuring Yoonshin Song, violin; 313.576.5111; dso.org

Dec. 14: Michigan Philharmonic, “Danzones y Tangos: A Cabaret Café,”; 734.451.2112; michiganphil.org

Local 5 Support Line

New member or old, you can extend your network by making more of your fellow

members aware of your talents and skills. Create your own profile at

detroitmusicians.net or simply fill out our Membership Survey on page 15.

Contact Info for Doing Business with Local 5

Secretary-Treasurer: Susan Barna Ayoub

EMAIL: [email protected]

PHONE: 248.569.5400, ext. 3

20833 Southfield Road

Southfield, MI 48075

FAX: 248.569.4716

WEBSITE: detroitmusicians.net


hOw tO StAy IN GOOD StANDINGTo avoid being expelled, be sure to pay your member-ship dues no later than the first month of each quarter. Your next payment is due by Monday, April 2. On Tues-day, May 1, all members who have not paid their dues will be suspended.

Expelled Members (10/19/17–1/25/18)

Anderson, DaleDavis, StephenJames, CurtisJones, DerronJones Jr, Paul

Martinez, MatthewMaslane, EugenePrice, JonathanReum, Sharon LTaul, Virtis

Resigned Members (10/19/17–1/25/18)Clemans, HollydeRanieri, VittoriaEdmonson, CharlesHarris, DanielOpie, Peter

Silcox-Howard, LauraSilvi, RogerSudia-Coudron, EllenWolfgram, Thomas

Reinstated Members (10/19/17–1/25/18)

Roenicke, DarrylSmith, James

Turner Houk, Rachel

Baraks, [email protected], Joseph9449 McDougall #2Hamtramck, MI 48212-0027Bernadich, [email protected], David440 Spencer StFerndale, MI 48220847-525-3645Blaikie, Amanda1 Lafayette Plaisance St, #1901Detroit, MI 48207Blair, SidneyAmerican House Elmwood Apt 60,2251 W AuburnRochester Hills, MI 48309386-316-5587Buchanan, Andrew4518 N. Kedzie Ave., Apt. 3CChicago, IL 60625Buciu, [email protected], Thomas3490 Pine StreetHale, MI 48739

Fisher, Patricia17062 Kingsbrooke DrClinton Twp, MI 48038Hamlen, Christopher610-334-6056Harrison, William430 Cloverly RoadGrosse Pointe Farms, MI 48236Hefner, Jason4200 Oakwood RoadOrtonville, MI 48462Humphrey, [email protected], Timothy13300 Sumac RdSouth Lyon, MI 48178Kress, Henryc/o Kathleen Kress10 NW White WayBentonville, AR 72712Lucas-Celebi, Leah801 Grosse Pointe CtGrosse Pointe, MI 48230Messana, JosephPO Box 241Sterling Heights, MI 48311Meyer, William313-657-8493

Nichols, Andrew41824 ClaytonClinton Twp., MI 48038Nixon, [email protected], Carol734-645-7417Peshlakai, David L2244 Oakwood DriveHillsdale, MI [email protected], Lawrence7391 Green Meadow LnCanton, MI 48187Rabbio, Salvatore42600 Cherry Hill Rd, Apt 217Canton, MI 48187Robertson, John2847 Seaton Circuit W,Warren, MI [email protected], [email protected], Matthew2120 Cambridge RdBerkley, MI 48072-1707

Shaw, Danny Sr9319 SE 137th Street Rd.Summerfield, FL 34491352-653-0361Soo Hoo Williams, GailPO Box 21145Detroit, MI [email protected], Sharon1300 East Lafayette, Apt. 2207,Detroit, MI [email protected], [email protected], EdwardPO Box 40533Redford, MI [email protected], John3909 Woodward Apt. 308Detroit, MI [email protected], [email protected], Jennifer2039 N. Campbell Rd.Royal Oak, MI 48073

Local 5 Address/phone Number/Email Changes (10/19/17–1/25/18)

DON’t GO MISSINGwant to know what’s going on?

want gigs? want to keep in touch?

when you move, get a new phone number or email address, let us know.

eBilling Important Notice

Members who give the union their email address will receive dues billings via eBill only

unless they opt out of eBilliing. Please contact Local 5

if you are unsure of your status or options.


Detroit Federation of Musicians aFM Local 5

you SHop. AMAzoN GivESQ: What is AmazonSmile?

A: AmazonSmile is a simple and automatic way for you to support Detroit Musicians Fund every time you shop at Amazon. When you shop at smile.amazon.com, you’ll find the exact same low prices, vast selection and convenient shopping experience as Amazon.com, with the added bo-nus that Amazon will donate a portion of the purchase price to the Detroit Musicians Fund.

Q: How do I shop at AmazonSmile?

A: To shop at AmazonSmile, simply go to smile.amazon.com from the web browser on your computer or mobile device. You may also want to add a bookmark to smile.amazon.com to make it even easier to return and start your shopping at AmazonSmile.

Q: Which products on AmazonSmile are eligible

for charitable donations?

A: Tens of millions of products on AmazonSmile are eli-gible for donations. Eligible products are marked “Eligible for AmazonSmile donation” on their product detail pages.

A woman was arrested after she admitted to purchasing gasoline, driving to her ex-boyfriend’s house, and using it to set his new girlfriend’s car on fire.

She’s now facing five years in prison and up to three Country Music Awards.

One good thing about music, when it hits you, you feel no pain. One good thing about being a bad comic, nobody ever laughs at you.

What happens to old hippies? They usually end up in the Old Age of Aquarius Home.

I was fired from my job selling amplifiers. I didn’t achieve the sufficient volume of sales.

Hi, I’m your brain. Do you hate this song ? Yes? Well, I don’t care, because I’ve memorized it and we’ll be singing it all day.

I hate the key of e minor. It gives me the e-b-g-b’s.

Our “Comedy Corner” editor is Joe Podorsek. If you have a comedy item you would like to submit for

consideration, please email Joe at [email protected].

— Comedy Corner —

The IRS Waits for No Man – or Woman

By the time your next Keynote arrives, you will

be very close to the deadline for filing your tax

returns for 2017. Now is the time to begin get-

ting your tax records in order.

As you do so, keep in mind that membership

and work dues paid to Local 5 and contributions

made to the Detroit Musicians Fund are all tax

deductions.

Feel free to contact Local 5 if you would like

an official record of what you’ve paid in for 2017.

MusiCares Foundation assists musicians, songwrit-ers, composers, recording engineers and other music industry professionals experiencing person-al, medical or financial emergency. As one of The Recording Academy’s (GRAMMYs) two charitable foundations, MusiCares reaches out to assist music professionals struggling with medical crises, addic-tions issues, loss of livelihood, dental emergencies, HIV/AIDS and other unforeseen crises. MusiCares’ assistance consists of emergency financial grants, and/or referral to other helping resources. The ap-plication process is quick and user-friendly, and re-spects the confidentiality and the dignity of the ap-plicant. For more information, contact Jennifer Leff, East Region Director, toll-free at 877-303-6962 or visit www.grammy.com/MusiCares.

MusiCares for Music People


tEMpo Contributions, 4th Quarter, 2017

Ethan AllenWilliam Austin, Jr.Alan Ayoub Susan AyoubPaul BeckerRobert BergmanRichard BoelterDavid BookerMarcy ChanteauxKeith ClaeysDouglas CornelsenThelma DinwiddieJohn DorseyRonald FischerWallace FitzPhilip GramenoWilliam GrastyMcKinley JacksonMary JohnstoneCarl KaroubVictoria KingLaurence Liberson

Stephen McKenzieGayelynn McKinneyGlenn MellowDonald OzgaEugene PagePaul Reeves JrPatricia ReiterBarbara RobinsonAnthony RossiElizabeth RowinBarry SchigeloneG. Craig StrainLaurence Teal JrDennis TiniGeorge Troia JrDavid WagnerRichard WiggintonDerrick WilliamsRobert WilliamsPatrick Zelenak

Barbara Zmich

TOTAL = $652.50

NOTE: New guidelines issued by the AFM Legisla-tive Department require that individual TEMPO con-tributions of $50 OR MORE BE WRITTEN IN A SEPARATE CHECK (from your dues) made payable to AFM TEMPO.

AFM is not soliciting contributions to TEMPO from any individ-ual who is not a member of the American Federation of Musicians of the United States and Canada (AFM), executive or professional employee of AFM or its affiliates, or their family member living in the same household. Any contribution received from such an indi-vidual will be returned to that contributor.

Detroit Musicians Entertainment Referral Gigs – 4th Quarter, 2017

Date Leader Players City

10/21 Kelly Roenicke 1 South Lyon10/31 José Riojas 1 Warren12/06 José Riojas 1 Warren12/14 José Riojas 1 Troy

Detroit Federation of MusiciansMember Survey

To get listed in the Local 5 Intune database as a performer or teacher, you must submit your information. The easiest way, if you don’t do a profile at detroitmusicians.net, is to fill out the form below and email, snail-mail or fax it in.

Local 5 Membership Survey(please print)

First/last name: ________________________________

Email address: __________________________________

Website: ______________________________________

What do you want known about you as a musician?

_____________________________________________

_____________________________________________

_____________________________________________

_____________________________________________

What kinds of work might you be looking for?

Theater q Symphony q Club q Studio q Weddings q Parties q Receptions q

Other________________________________________

I give private lessons on the following instruments:

_____________________________________________

Clip and mail or fax this survey to Local 5 at:Detroit Federation of Musicians20833 Southfield RoadSouthfield, MI 48075Fax: 248.569.1393Email: [email protected]

The Detroit Federation of Musicians respects your right to privacy and will not sell or otherwise distribute this information to any third party..

Dues Billing ReminDeR

If you gave Local 5 your email address, you will not receive an invoice in your snail mail box. If you still do wish to receive a paper invoice, you must let Local 5 know by simply sending an email to: [email protected].


Minutes: Executive Board Meeting, 9/19/17

The regular monthly meeting of the Executive Board was called to order at 11:08 am, President George Troia being in the chair, as well as Vice President Douglas Cornelsen and Secretary-Treasurer Susan Bar-na Ayoub being present. Also present were Executive Board Members Ralphe Armstrong, Robert Lymperis, Alonza McKenzie and Lynne Marie Mangan.

On motion by Mr McKenzie, seconded by Mr Lymperis, to approve the agenda, it was approved unanimously.

11:09 am Andrew Wu, Local 5 Delegate to the ROPA Conference joined the meeting.

This is Mr Wu’s first opportunity to serve as ROPA Delegate for MOT and Local 5, as well as his first time attending a ROPA Confer-ence.

The conference took place in Phoenix, AZ from July 31-Aug 3, 2017. The first day featured a negotiating workshop, held primar-ily for those orchestras who are currently in or have just finished up negotiations. The staff for the AFM Symphonic Services Department gave presentations on how to navigate negotiations. Mr Wu found the workshop to be fascinating and was gratified that the preparation and negotiating strategies used by MOT are ones being encouraged by the AFM SSD.

Additionally, the conference also covered a wide range of topics, including hearing protection, bullying, diversity and pension.

There were breakout sessions, in which delegates had the opportu-nity to discuss specific challenges with those from orchestras of similar size. Mr Wu’s group included the LA Opera, Dallas Opera, Houston Opera and Ballet, Pittsburgh Opera, Boston Ballet and Minnesota Opera. Something they all shared in common was the move towards smaller productions and/or smaller productions that took place outside of the organization’s main stage. In almost all circumstances, this led to a discussion of how musicians would be selected or rotated into the smaller ensembles. In no case was there guaranteed pay equity.

A presentation of Internal Orchestra Organization looked at work-place issues, such as those among players, between management and players, unsafe work environment, bullying and use of social media. Mr Wu found SSD Educator Todd Jelen’s ‘scripted’ orchestra meeting to be especially helpful and entertaining.

Discussion also took place with regard to management wanting to have language in agreements that requires people to retire by certain ages. Mr Wu spoke about the ‘rule of 80’, i.e. the sum of an employee’s age and years of service, borrowed from General Motors. VP Cornelsen talked about the big difference between mandates and having incen-tives to retire. As he mentioned, it’s very common for highly qualified musicians to play until an advanced age. Though it has been considered illegal to have a mandatory retirement age in many orchestral union agreements, Ms Mangan reiterated that it is legal for the company to offer benefits, etc to employees as an incentive to retire.

In conclusion, Mr Wu’s biggest lesson was the importance of com-munication among the musicians, the local union, management and the national AFM.

President Troia and Mr Wu spoke about the possibility of Local 5 paying the ROPA dues for the MOT players. Ms Mangan spoke in sup-port of the union paying those dues, providing this aid to the orchestra members.

11:27 AM Mr Wu left the meeting.On motion by VP Cornelsen, seconded by Mr Armstrong, to approve

the minutes of the previous meeting, they were approved unanimously. The next meeting of the Executive Board will take place on

Wednesday, October 11 at 11:00 am. President Troia gave the following report:The final draft of the new Detroit Symphony Orchestra contract is

being prepared for printing.The Community Orchestra agreement has been ratified – 45 Yes, 0

Nay. Modifications to the agreement are as follows: The agreement will be in effect until August 31, 2020. By the end of the agreement, the rate of pay will have increased to $76 per performance, $64 per dress rehearsal and $57 per rehearsal. The only other change to the contract is cartage language, as follows: “When applicable, the Employer shall pay additional compensation, by mutual agreement, to a Musician to move oversized or multiple instruments to services.” This was a clarification of previous language in the agreement.

The signatory orchestras to the Community Orchestra agreement are Dearborn Symphony, Grosse Pointe Symphony, Livonia Symphony, Michigan Philharmonic, Motor City Symphony and Redford Civic Symphony.

The Fisher/Nederlander LLC contract was overwhelmingly rati-fied – 23 Yes votes, 0 Nay. The agreement will be in effect until Au-gust 31, 2020. By the end of the agreement, the rate of pay will have increased to $1,572.91 weekly scale, $196.61 per single show, $136.43 per rehearsal and $27.30 per half hour of overtime. Contribution to the AFM-EPF will increase from 11.99% to 12.99% in the first year and remain for the duration of the contract. Finally, the following language was added for keyboard substitutes: “The musician shall receive a one- time preparation/substitute fee of $400.00, paid on the last payroll of the run of the show.”

The Detroit Opera House contract was overwhelmingly ratified – 28 Yes, 0 Nay. The agreement will be in effect until August 31, 2020. By the end of the agreement, the rate of pay will have increased to $1,618.06 weekly scale, $202.26 per single show, $130.50 per rehearsal and $25.09 per half hour of overtime. Contribution to the AFM-EPF will increase from 12.99% to 13.99% in the first year and remain for the duration of the contract. Language was added to clarify that side-musicians’ scale for Keyboard and Guitar players will also be paid for rehearsals (in addition to performances). The following language was added for keyboard substitutes: “The musician shall receive a one-time substitution fee of $400.00, paid on the last payroll of the run of the show.” Also, $75 is inserted into the agreement in employer cartage payment.

NABET Local 43, tenants at Local 5 headquarters, still do not have an agreement with WDIV but feel progress is being made. However, they would like us to continue to not appear or advertise, and turn off, Local 4.

President Troia expressed his appreciation for those members who participated in the Annual Labor Day March! There was a group of 12 marchers including Sue and Al Ayoub, Gabriel and Carmelina Escoe, Johnathan Boyd, Laura Larson, Christa Grix, Mary Johnstone, Mauricio Betanzo, Paul Onachuk, Larry Barone and President Troia. Marchers were picked up by Reverend Anderson. Alternative ways of participat-ing are being discussed for next year.

The Music Performance Trust Fund is sponsoring 10 performances at nursing homes and senior centers this fiscal year for their Musician Fest 2017. Mary Johnstone and President Troia are facilitating the single per-

Executive Board minutes continue on page 20



Executive Board Minutes, 9/19/17, continued from page 19

former concerts at several of the facilities that have had these events before.President Troia attended the first segment of the three-part AFM

Officer Training Program series two weeks ago in Chicago, immediate-ly preceding the Midwestern Conference. He found the sessions very informative and looks forward to attending the second part in Novem-ber when the AFM sends him to Madison, Wisconsin. This segment will be presented by the Labor School of the University of Wisconsin.

President Troia and Sec/Treas Ayoub attended the newly formed Midwestern Conference in Chicago, Illinois over the weekend of September 8–10. The newly formed conference consists of the Mid-America (to which Local 5 belongs), Mid-States and Illinois Confer-ences. The conference was well attended. The officers heard presenta-tions from most AFM officers, Conference Officers, and a presentation from Local 5 Sec/Treas Susan Barna Ayoub, who spoke for the AFM Diversity Committee.

Both Mr Armstrong and Ms Mangan spoke about the importance of mentorship to young players. Mr Armstrong will speak with Ellen Rowe and Andrew Bishop, professors at U of M, about allowing him to actively sign up members at the university. After S/T Ayoub spoke about the importance of keeping up the screens through the end of orchestral auditions, so that the identities of the auditioners are secret until the end, VP Cornelsen spoke enthusiastically about keeping the screens up throughout the process. He mentioned that, usually if the screen comes down, there is an agenda that is about something other than purely musical ability. Local 5’s officers extended an invitation to those present to host the conference next September, which was ac-cepted. Local 5 members will be kept abreast of developments as we move forward and will be invited to help plan and attend the confer-ence as they are able.

The AFM has a relief fund set up for hurricane relief, www.afm.org/2017/09/harvey-relief-fund/. President Troia asked the members of the board to consider donating to the fund if they haven’t already. He also mentioned that most of the board responded to his e-poll re-garding donating services on Sunday, October 1, 2017 for a concert at St. Regis Parish. All proceeds go to the Catholic Services Relief Fund, which is also for hurricane relief. He also asked the board to consider attending the concert or performing, if possible.

President Troia phoned several Local 5 members that live in Florida and so far has only heard from Fred Boldt who is okay but having a hard time getting basic services. He is still waiting to hear from Sid Blair and Larry Teal.

On motion by Mr Armstrong, seconded by Ms Mangan, to accept the president’s report, it was accepted unanimously.

Sec/Treas Ayoub presented reports of Monthly Income, Cash Dis-bursements and Comparative Fiscal Year-to-Date. On motion by VP Cornelsen, seconded by Mr Armstrong, to receive the financial reports, they were received unanimously.

Sec/Treas Ayoub presented the Payroll reports. On motion by Mr Lymperis, seconded by Ms Mangan, to approve the reports, they were approved unanimously.

Sec/Treas Ayoub presented the Officers’ Expenses and Charge Cards reports. On motion by Mr Armstrong, seconded by Mr McKenzie, to approve the reports, they were approved unanimously.

Sec/Treas Ayoub presented a report of New Member Applications from Christopher Spooner, John Walters and Justin Emerich. On mo-tion by Ms Mangan, seconded by Mr McKenzie, to accept the applica-

tions, they were accepted unanimously. Sec/Treas Ayoub presented a report of member reinstatements, resigna-

tions, suspensions/expulsions and deaths, as well as a Local Census report. Just prior to the news of the recent extensive hack of the systems

of credit bureau Equifax, Sec/Treas Ayoub reported that the union had became aware that a number of people who work in the state of Michi-gan had had fraudulent unemployment claims filed, using their name and information. Among many others, the affected people include mu-sicians who have been hired by several Michigan orchestras, including the Ann Arbor, Detroit, Flint and Kalamazoo symphonies. She sent out a group email to Local 5 members, informing them of important steps to take to protect themselves as well as possible and reassuring them that employers would be busy denying these claims.

Sec/Treas Ayoub reported on the recent Dental Clinic funded by MusiCares. The clinic was well-attended, and it appeared as though a good time was had by all. She offered a hearty thank-you as always to MusiCares and expressed her enjoyment of having the opportunity to be involved with making this offering to the music community.

Sec/Treas Ayoub reported on the audit of Local 5’s books per-formed by the Pension Fund. The union did not contribute on behalf of every part-time office employee from 2012-2016. After negotiat-ing with the AFM-EPF, and in light of the problems the AFM-EPF is facing, the union will pay an agreed upon portion of the pension and penalties owed.

Returning to a review of Local 5’s Limited Pressing Agreements that was begun at the previous meeting, on motion by Mr McKenzie, seconded by Mr Armstrong, to approve the agreements, they were ap-proved unanimously.

To confirm the results of an epoll, on motion by Ms Mangan, second-ed by Mr McKenzie, to approve the date of Oct 16, 2017 at 7:00 pm for the Semi-Annual Membership Meeting, it was approved unanimously.

To confirm the results of an epoll, on motion by Ms Mangan, sec-onded by VP Cornelsen, to approve members wishing to donate their services for the aforementioned Hurricane Relief concert, it was ap-proved.

President Troia handed around a thank-you card from members of Dave Skotarcyk’s family for remembering his father’s death.

President Troia passed around copies of a letter that was handed out by AFM Legislative Director Alfonso Pollard at the MidWestern Conference, written by the members of the USA President’s Commit-tee on the Arts and Humanities. It was an excellent letter that is known for having used the first letter of each paragraph to spell out the word RESIST – in protest of the threatened ending of this committee.

He also handed out the “Rise Up, Unions” stickers that Local 5 had printed for the Labor Day Parade.

In a final discussion for the day, Mr Armstrong and Ms Mangan offered to organize a music business class geared for young musicians.

1:05 pm On motion by Ms Mangan, seconded by Mr Armstrong, to adjourn the meeting, it was adjourned.


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The regular monthly meeting of the Executive Board was called to order at 10:35 am, President George Troia being in the chair, as well as Vice President Douglas Cornelsen and Secretary-Treasurer Susan Bar-na Ayoub being present. Also present were Executive Board Members Ralphe Armstrong, Robert Lymperis, Alonza McKenzie and Patrick Zelenak.

On motion by Mr Lymperis, seconded by Mr Zelenak, to approve the agenda, it was approved unanimously.

After discussion, the board decided to table the minutes as presented and asked Sec/Treas Ayoub to reword a paragraph from the September minutes.

The next meeting of the Executive Board will take place on Wednesday, November 1 at 11:00 am.

President Troia gave the following report:All pending collective bargaining agreements and their ratifications

have been finalized. Updated agreements will be on our website.President Troia asked each board member to please make every ef-

fort to attend the upcoming Semi-Annual Meeting on Monday, Octo-ber 16, at 7:00 pm.

Ten Local 5 members, including President Troia, participated in the Hurricane Relief Concert held on Sunday, October 1, 2017. The con-cert was a success and was well attended – with almost 60 players taking part. Unofficially, it raised about $13,000 for the cause. President Troia was able talk to several musicians about the benefits of union member-ship. He had worked to encourage musicians to participate and hand-ed around the program. Andrew Neer, director of the Redford Civic Symphony (one of orchestras that participates in Local 5’s Community Orchestra Master Agreement), conducted the concert.

Participating were concertmaster Andrew Wu; violinists Lynn Bros-nan, Anida Margariti, and Priscilla Marino; violist Scott Stefanko; cellist Eugene Zenzen; bass Steve McKenzie; bassoon Phelan Young; horn Lu-cas Dickow; and, joining President Troia on trombone, was trombonist Dave Pydyn. The musicians’ donation of service was appreciated.

On motion by Mr McKenzie, seconded by Mr Armstrong, to ap-prove the president’s report, it was approved unanimously.

Sec/Treas Ayoub presented reports of Monthly Income, Cash Dis-bursements and Comparative Fiscal Year-to-Date. On motion by Mr Lymperis, seconded by Mr Armstrong, to receive the financial reports,

they were received unanimously. Sec/Treas Ayoub presented the Payroll reports. On motion by VP

Cornelsen, seconded by Mr McKenzie, to approve the reports, they were approved unanimously.

Sec/Treas Ayoub presented the Officers’ Expenses and Charge Cards reports. On motion by Mr Lymperis, seconded by Mr Zelenak, to approve the reports, they were approved unanimously.

Sec/Treas Ayoub presented a report of New Member Applications from Jeffrey Canady, Francisco Delgado, Edward Davis, Tracy Carter, Joseph LeFevre, Alexander Davis and Andrea Levine. On motion by VP Cornelsen, seconded by Mr Armstrong, to accept the applications, they were accepted unanimously.

Sec/Treas Ayoub presented a report of member reinstatements, res-ignations, suspensions/expulsions and deaths, as well as a Local Census report.

Moving to Unfinished Business, Sec/Treas Ayoub reported that, be-ginning on Friday, Local 5 member Daniel Kolton would begin work-ing in the office, as her assistant. Among other things, Mr Kolton will act as a part-time in-office IT person for the union.

Moving on to Good & Welfare, President Troia reported that for-mer Local 5 member and Cass Tech administrator Charlie Weiner has passed away at the age of 92. President Troia also reported the Supreme Court has agreed to hear a new case that is in danger of instituting national Right-To-Work. It is called Janus v American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees, No. 16-1466. The court will be considering whether or not public sector unions may require work-ers who are not members to help pay for collective bargaining. If the court’s answer is no, unions would lose a substantial source of revenue. A ruling allowing workers to refuse to pay the fees would be the cul-mination of a decades-long campaign by conservative groups aimed at weakening unions representing public employees.

Mr Armstrong reminded the board that former House Speaker Newt Gringrich had wanted to change child labor laws, in essence so that children who need income would be paid for doing work at their school.

President Troia thanked Mr McKenzie for employing 40-or-so mu-sicians at the Charles Wright museum.

11:30 am Meeting adjourned.


The regular monthly meeting of the Executive Board was called to order at 11:12 am, President George Troia being in the chair, as well as Vice President Douglas Cornelsen and Secretary-Treasurer Susan Barna Ayoub being present. Also present were Executive Board Mem-bers Ralphe Armstrong, Robert Lymperis, Lynne Marie Mangan and Alonza McKenzie. In addition, Detroit Symphony ICSOM Delegate Monica Fosnaugh was in attendance.

On motion by Ms Mangan, seconded by Mr Armstrong, to approve the agenda, it was approved unanimously.

The next meeting of the Executive Board will take place on Mon-day, December 18 at 10:00 am.

Ms Fosnaugh, English horn player with the DSO, stated that she is starting her 3rd year as the orchestra’s ISCOM representative. This year’s conference took place in Buffalo, NY from August 22nd through the 26th. Each year there is a negotiation workshop on the night before

the official conference begins. The workshop takes place particularly for those representing orchestras who are close in time to negotia-tions. This year, included were the Kennedy Center, San Antonio, Fort Worth, Pittsburgh, Milwaukee, Baltimore, Buffalo and Philadelphia or-chestras – each of whom spoke about their situations. The Kennedy Center experienced contentious negotiations and settled for a one-year contract – an extension of the previous one. Management is raising money for a massive expansion of the Center, while making cuts else-where. The president of the Center is in charge of the negotiations but is never present at the table. Thus, the orchestra reps are talking with people who simply provide information but do not make decisions. The Washington National Orchestra performs at the Kennedy Center. In San Antonio, they are terminating the organization and transferring it to a 501c3 non-profit called, “Symphonic Music for San Antonio.”



The new non-profit is being organized by three major funders who are tired of the “failing business model.” Assets are being assessed and will be transferred to the new 501c3 after all obligations are met. There is concern that the new management group will reduce the orchestra size from 72 to 40. The Fort Worth rep called their labor action worth it because they kept their in-tegrity as an orchestra and learned more about themselves and each other. In Pitts-burgh, they signed a 5-year agreement, by the end of which their financials should be back to where they started. Their private pension is now closed to all current players, and they are going into 401k’s or 403b’s. Their base contribution is 8%, which in-creases with age up to 17%. Ms Fosnaugh added that more orchestras are going this way. The musicians of Philadelphia antici-pate that they are approaching a difficult negotiation. At issue is the fact that they are the lowest paid of the top 5 orchestras. They also bear the stigma of no longer be-ing in the AFM-EPF. As a result, they are losing people and are not able to attract as good players as previously.

On the next morning, ICSOM Chair Meredith Snow emphasized ICSOM’s commitment to the union. She clarified that the value of the union is what we make of it. She mentioned the new Ben Hur movie that was recorded non-union at the San Francisco-area Skywalker Ranch. Ms Snow spoke aggressively about those who accepted that job – that it devalues union work. It was played by a number of union members who work under CBAs with operas and symphonic orchestras. Ms Fosnaugh said that orchestras are not elitist and unsustainable, though the League has indicated that. It is NOT a business model that is broken.

ISCOM President George Brown took a shot at the League of American Orchestras for trying to maintain the current business model of American Orchestras. There is no one solution to everyone’s problems. The musicians need more control over messaging to fight misinformation, i.e. they need to gain control of their message. There is confusion about how much music can be posted under the IMA (Integrated Media Agreement), and it is difficult to get people to understand that they can’t just post their music to the internet. Moving to the topic of diversity, they are looking for ways to advance diversity in programming, conductors, management positions, board members, etc. There are a number of minorities and women on boards and in orchestras. AFM Legislative Director and Diversity Li-

aison Alfonso Pollard spoke about the events that have happened in Washington DC in the past year, such as the push to eliminate the NEA and the uphill battle for “Fair Play, Fair Pay.” Even changes to NAFTA could affect intellectual property rights. Bottom line, regarding TEM-PO: Our presence in Washington DC is more important now than ever. AFM Symphonic Services Director Rochelle Skolnick spoke about the fact that each orchestra intrinsically represents the individual city in which it resides and that it is crucial to build authentic relationships that are unique to the community. Again, there is no one cookie cutter “American” model that works for all. Each city is different at building




and keeping relationships with its orchestra.On the next day of the conference, it was reported that there is over

$3 million in the AFM Orchestra and Opera strike fund, but that it is down because of the reduced size of orchestras. The new orchestral Integrated Media Agreement negotiations are coming up and are an-ticipated to be contentious. Kevin Case gave a talk on bargaining health care, which is of course very changeable at this moment. If health care costs are rising, he suggests looking at changing demographics within the orchestra, such as age and gender, as a possible place to save. He also recommended always having a truly independent agent and to have language that allows that to change. AFM President Ray Hair led a discussion about the Pension Fund. The information is available at afm-epf.org. The determination of a negatively changed status of the Fund was not made this summer, as was anticipated, but could happen within the next 5 years. President Troia talked about those who are drawing 6-figure pensions as being perhaps a first place cuts would happen. However, cuts have to be fair, or the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation will not approve them. The presentation was perceived as aggressive.

On the following day, two big seminars were presented. One was “Back from the Brink,” given by representatives who went through orchestra strikes. The DSO’s Ken Thompkins spoke about the misuse of funds being put toward the building, as opposed to the musicians. The Louisville orchestra urged everyone not to wait until negotiations in order to discover philosophical differences between musicians and the board. The Buffalo orchestra thinks they have a board that believes in what they do; Joann Falletta is their conductor. Later in a diversity dis-cussion, Ken Thompkins spoke about his experience as a DSO African-American fellow. John Lofton, bass trombone for the LA Philharmonic, said it matters to people to see musicians that look like them. Local 5’s Mr Armstrong said it gives people hope; he also spoke about the im-portance of education.

On Saturday, community relations were discussed, and Randy Whatley, who was involved with the DSO strike, spoke about the role of social media.

12:20 pm Ms Fosnaugh left the meeting.On motion by Mr Armstrong, seconded by Mr Lymperis, to ap-

prove the minutes of the September board meeting, they were approved unanimously.

On motion by Mr McKenzie, seconded by VP Cornelsen, to ap-prove the minutes of the October meeting as amended, they were ap-proved unanimously.

President Troia gave the following report:He thanked the members of the board for attending the Semi-An-

nual Meeting on Monday, October 17 at 7:00 pm. Seventeen members were in attendance.

After the most recent board meeting, President Troia attended an orchestra meeting at the Detroit Symphony Orchestra where new committees were elected. The morale seemed very high in expectation for the new season under the new agreement.

He also attended a performance on Friday, October 20, that featured Principal Cellist Wei Yu and Principal Violist Eric Nowlin. Both gave incredible performances. Wei played the Elgar Concerto for Cello and Orchestra and Eric was featured in Berlioz’s “Harold in Italy.” He said that we are very fortunate to have these incredible musicians in our community.

He then attended a town hall meeting at Orchestra Hall, concerning annuitizing the DSO pension plan. The meeting was very informa-tive. Sachs and Waldman attorney Derrick Watkins attended along with Laurie Landers Goldman, who heads the DSO pension committee. Derrick has served as the Employment Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) expert regarding the DSO plan for many years.

President Troia attended the opening production of Rigoletto by the Michigan Opera Theatre. The production was excellent in every way. He is consistently impressed by the level of the performances offered each time he attends.

He visited member Earl Deforest, who is recovering from heart fail-ure. He is back home now and getting back to a usual routine. He ap-preciates phone calls and visits.

President Troia attended the Funeral Mass for Elma “Dixie Belle” Tronianko on Monday, October 30. She was a 72-year member of Lo-cal 5, and he has fond memories of her from years past playing with Chet Bogan’s Dixieland Band and other engagements, including the Bob-Lo Boat.

Local 5 administrative assistant Mary Johnstone also lost her mother, Catherine, the very same week.

Finally, yesterday, President Troia learned of the passing of longtime member, bandleader and Detroit Public Schools teacher and adminis-trator Ben Pruitt, Sr. He served as chair of Local 5’s most recent election committee. He will be greatly missed by our musical community.

On motion by Ms Mangan, seconded by Mr Armstrong, to approve the president’s report, it was approved unanimously.

Sec/Treas Ayoub presented reports of Monthly Income, Cash Dis-bursements and Comparative Fiscal Year-to-Date. On motion by Ms Mangan, seconded by Mr Armstrong, to receive the financial reports, they were received unanimously.

Sec/Treas Ayoub presented the Payroll reports. On motion by Ms Mangan, seconded by Mr Armstrong, to approve the reports, they were approved unanimously.

Sec/Treas Ayoub presented the Officers’ Expenses and Charge Cards reports. On motion by Mr McKenzie, seconded by VP Cornelsen, to approve the reports, they were approved unanimously.

Sec/Treas Ayoub presented a report of New Member Applications from Christopher Hamlen and Sarah Lewis. On motion by Ms Man-gan, seconded by Mr Armstrong, to accept the applications, they were accepted unanimously.

Sec/Treas Ayoub presented a report of member reinstatements, res-ignations, suspensions/expulsions and deaths, as well as a Local Census report.

Moving on to Unfinished Business: On motion by Mr Armstrong, seconded by Ms Mangan, to confirm the results of an epoll regarding member hardship, the results were confirmed unanimously.

1:11 pm Jeremy Epp, Stephen Molina, Hunter Eberly, Haden Mc-Kay and Robert Stiles (members of the DSO Orchestra Committee) joined the meeting.

Mr Epp spoke about the longstanding good relationship between the orchestra and Local 5, which is not always the case between sym-phony orchestra musicians and their union. Mr Molina said that the committee was attending the meeting for the purpose of making their annual appropriations request. The musicians are at the beginning of a new 3-year agreement, and the request is for a contribution to the AFM Orchestra-Opera Strike Fund; a stipend, along with a pension contribution, for the committee members; and an amount for miscella-





The regular monthly meeting of the Executive Board was called to order at 10:10 am, President George Troia being in the chair, as well as Vice President Douglas Cornelsen and Secretary-Treasurer Susan Bar-na Ayoub being present. Also present were Executive Board Members Ralphe Armstrong, Robert Lymperis, Alonza McKenzie and Patrick Zelenak.

On motion by Mr Lymperis, seconded by Mr Armstrong, to ap-prove the agenda, it was approved unanimously.

10:13 am Lynne Marie Mangan joined the meeting.

On motion by VP Cornelsen, seconded by Mr McKenzie, to ap-prove the minutes of the November meeting, they were approved unani-mously.

The next meeting of the Execu-tive Board will take place on Friday, January 19, 2018 at 11:00 am.

President Troia gave the follow-ing report:

He participated in the AFM Leadership Training Seminar held at the University of Wisconsin in Madison from November 5–8. The seminar was facilitated by members of the Labor School as well as the AFM. It was the second phase of three planned and paid for by the AFM. President Troia was in a group of fifteen participants from across the US and Canada. He found the study, problem solving and cama-raderie inspiring and worthwhile. Many thanks to the AFM for pro-viding this opportunity.

The DSO has received printed copies of their new agreement. Lo-cal 5 shared the printing cost as we have done in the past.

Both Local 5 officers took the new members of the DSO out to lunch on Tuesday, November 28, at the Block Restaurant near Orches-tra Hall. In attendance were clarinetists Andrea Levine and Jack Walters; bassist Chris Hamlen; violinist Sujin Lim; cellist Jeremy Crosmer; and bassoonist Alexander Davis. They all appreciated the outing very much.

The orchestra voted overwhelmingly to approve the annuitization of the DSO pension plan. The retired members should see no change in their benefit; the advantage for the corporation is they would not be liable for any shortfall of funding, and an insurance company would assume that risk.

The musicians announced a $100,000 contribution to the DSO at last week’s Annual Meeting.

President Troia attended the December 9th performance, fea-turing Mahler’s Ninth Symphony. The orchestra was outstanding.

The Metro AFL-CIO will hold its annual Holiday Party at its De-cember Delegate Body Meeting, which takes place on Wednesday, December 20, 5:00 pm at 8124 E. Ten Mile Road in Centerline. The members of the Board are cordially invited – as they are to any delegate body meeting. The meetings take place on the third Wednesday of the month at 5:30 pm, locations TBD.

The National AFL-CIO will be hosting a four-state all-day sum-mit on Thursday, January 25, at the IEBW Hall on Porter Street. You are welcome to come and attend any part of the day. Richard Trum-ka will be there to discuss the soli-darity grants awarded to Michigan, Wisconsin, Ohio and Pennsylvania. These are the states targeted for the 2018 elections.

President Troia spoke about a recently received email from Inter-national President Ray Hair, urging support for the Butch Lewis Act of 2017. The new bill introduced in the Senate by Senator Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio) and in the House

by Representative Richard Neal (D-Massachusetts) has several strate-gies to help Defined Benefit Pension Plans like the AFM-EPF.

The act itself is named after a Teamster pensioner, Butch Lewis. In short, it calls for the establishment of a Pension Rehabilitation Ad-

neous expenses. VP Cornelsen added that the current request was very similar to that of previous years. Mr Molina also asked the members of the union board to consider attending the DSO concerts and recep-tions, in order to help sustain the feeling of camaraderie between the DSO musicians and the union. He spoke about the audience reaction to the Davidson Foundation $15 million gift, which is tied for the

largest single donation in DSO history. The Davidson Foundation has sponsored the DSO’s popular neighborhood concert series over the past 7 years; this grant also includes a challenge grant to add to the DSO’s endowment.

1:25 pm The members of the Orchestra Committee left the meeting.On motion by Mr Armstrong, seconded by Ms Mangan, to approve

the committee’s appropriations request, it was approved unanimously.1:34 pm On motion by VP Cornelsen, seconded by Ms Mangan, to

adjourn the meeting, it was adjourned.


In November, President Troia (far right, 2nd row) participat-ed in the AFM Leadership Training Seminar held at the Uni-versity of Wisconsin in Madison. The seminar was facilitated by members of the Labor School as well as the AFM. It was the second phase of three planned and paid for by the AFM. President Troia was in a group of 15 participants from across the U.S. and Canada. Many thanks to the AFM for providing this inspiring and worthwhile opportunity.




ministration, under the Department of Treasury which would have the ability to issue bonds to guarantee loans, helping pension funds that are in distress to continue to pay full benefits to pensioners. The idea has been talked about over the past couple of years, but this is the first time a beneficial plan has been articulated since the passage of the 2014 Multi Employer Pension Reform Act. The bill also contains provisions to address plans that have already been granted a reorganization plan approval under MPRA.

President Troia attended the funerals of members Ben Pruitt and Nick Waselowich, and presented Bibles to the families. Both were very grateful to the Local for our support at these difficult times.

On motion by Mr Lymperis, seconded by Mr Armstrong, to ap-prove the president’s report, it was approved unanimously.

Sec/Treas Ayoub presented reports of Monthly Income, Cash Dis-bursements and Comparative Fiscal Year-to-Date. On motion by Mr Armstrong, seconded by Ms Mangan, to receive the financial reports, they were received unanimously.

Sec/Treas Ayoub presented the Payroll reports. On motion by Ms Mangan, seconded by Mr Zelenak, to approve the reports, they were approved unanimously.

Sec/Treas Ayoub presented the Officers’ Expenses and Charge Cards reports. On motion by Ms Mangan, seconded by Mr Armstrong, to approve the reports, they were approved unanimously.

Sec/Treas Ayoub presented a report of New Member Applications from Shantanique Moore, Dionte Densmore and Steven Sigurdson. On motion by Ms Mangan, seconded by Mr McKenzie, to accept the ap-plications, they were accepted unanimously.

Sec/Treas Ayoub presented a report of member reinstatements, resigna-tions, suspensions/expulsions and deaths, as well as a Local Census report.

Finally, Sec-Treas Ayoub reported that she wrote an article about Detroit and Diversity that would run in the January 2018 issue of the International Musician.

Both officers reported that all tenants at Local 5 Headquarters, 20833 Southfield, have had a small increase of 3% in their rents. It has been 10 years since rent was increased. All are long-term tenants, and there were no complaints.

President Troia reminded the board that the annual Member Orien-tation & Open House would take place on Monday, Jan 8, beginning at noon.

Ms Mangan reminded all that Amazon has its Smile program. If you name a charity you wish to receive donations, each time you make an eligible purchase with Amazon, your charity will receive a contribu-tion. (See full info on page 17.)

Special orders: 11:20 AM Local 5 member and Executive Director of Detroit Sound Conservancy Carleton Gholz, PhD joined the meet-ing.

Dr. Gholz reported that:

• Detroit Sound Conservancy, formed in 2012, is a historic preserva-tion nonprofit (see more at http://detroitsound.org ).

• An example of their work was the successful effort in making Unit-ed Sound Systems a local historic district in Detroit and the installa-tion of a Michigan Historical Marker on the property.

• He reported that in his work for DSC he understands that there is much going on in the city musically and that there is a need for policy that is related to music in the city, which includes the voice of the DFM.

• Dr. Gholz also discussed the Music Cities movement and a docu-ment called “The Mastering of a Music City,” a report published by Music Canada that looks at how a vibrant music economy can generate a wide array of benefits for cities, from economic growth, job creation, and increased spending to greater tax revenues and cultural development.

• However, he reported that when he goes to meetings, conferences, and conventions related to Detroit music policy and the larger Mu-sic Cities movement, he does NOT hear the point of view of AFM or DFM members. There is a distinct lack of awareness of what the AFM does, its value to Detroit musicians, and what role it might play in making Detroit a “music city.”

• DSC is planning its 5th annual conference this fall. DSC hopes that the DFM will be a partner/sponsor in some capacity with the con-ference. Dr. Gholz will share the details of that conference once the dates have been settled and will put together an ask for the DFM Board.

• Dr. Gholz also recommended that DFM hire an organizer to reach out to younger musicians and raise awareness about the DFM. If a budget could be found, Dr. Gholz would be interested in filling that position.

12:00 PM On motion by Mr Armstrong, seconded by VP Cornel-son, to adjourn the meeting, it was adjourned unanimously.

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Ronald Aneiros (aka Ronny Phillips) passed away on December 2, 2017 at the age of 87. He was born on July 24, 1930 in Detroit and affiliated with Local 5 in 1952. A 65-year member, he played the piano. A vocal and piano teacher, he loved to entertain. Toward the end of his career, he worked at piano bars, encouraging customers to sing along.Napoleon Kelly died on October 27, 1917 at the age of 56. He was born on January 3, 1951 in Detroit and af-filiated with Local 5 in 2002. A 9-year member, he played the guitar and was a composer. Napoleon received a Board of Regents scholarship from Eastern Michigan University where he received a degree in music theory.Benjamin Pruitt, Sr. passed away on October 30, 2017 at the age of 77. He was born on July 31, 1940 in Little Rock, AR and affiliated with Local 5 in 1968. Ben played the saxophones and had a long and distinguished teach-ing career that is detailed in this issue’s “The Music Stand” along with a photo on page 5.Allen Serrin died on November 4, 2017 at the age of 69. He was born on January 14, 1948 in Saginaw, MI and af-filiated with Local 5 in 1974. A 41-year member, he began his career as a reeds player. Later, when he developed carpal tunnel syndrome, he was flexible enough to continue his career as a trumpet and trombone player.Elma Tronianko (aka Elma Santa aka Dixie Belle) passed away on October 26, 2017 at the age of 96. She was born on October 23, 1921 in Bellaire, OH and affiliated with

Closing Chord bbLocal 5 in 1945. A 72-year member, she played the ac-cordion and sang. Elma was the widow of deceased Local 5 member Walter Tronianko and sister-in-law of deceased Local 5 member Quinto Vitale. She studied music in New York in 1939. In addition to belonging to the union, she was a member of Accordion Society. When her family moved to Detroit, she signed an exclusive contract with Al Rice of the Gail and Rice Agency, who renamed her Elma Santa, the Sweetheart of the Accordion. Later she became Dixie Belle, the regular vocalist with Chet Bogan’s Wolver-ine Jazz Band, singing Dixieland and New Orleans blues and jazz. They played for 17 years at the Lido, in addition to numerous events, including six half-hour specials for PBS. See photo below.Allan (Herman) Tucker passed away on December 18, 2017 at the age of 90. He was born on May 21, 1927 in Portsmouth, VA and affiliated with Local 5 in 1956. A 59-year member, he played the drums and vibes. Nicholas Waselowich died on November 15, 2017 at the age of 91. He was born on September 11, 1926 in Detroit and affiliated with Local 5 in 1950. A 67-year member, he played the viola. After serving in the military, Nick’s first “real” job was with the San Antonio Symphony Orchestra – later eventually joining the Detroit Symphony Orches-tra, recording in the Motown studios and performing in numerous venues. A photo and more information about Nick and his career can be found on page 5 in “The Music Stand.”

This photo provided by Joe Podorsek shows Elma at a Detroit Lions game with a booster band: (L-r): Trombonist Pete Synnesvat; the tuba player, whose name Joe does remember, was curator of musical instruments at Greenfield Village; on banjo is Joe Podorsek; Gary Stuck is the drummer; Eric Mannering is the trumpeter; Wally Tronianko, Elma’s husband, is on clarinet.

sunday, march 18 11 a.m., local 5

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