Yeah, Rick. Local Unions are like that. They are just like any other small elective bodies. It is up to the members to elect good officers. All together too often they just keep the same old leadership even if it is failing, or they elect new folks even if the old ones are doing a capable job. Like any other form of democracy, it works if the electorate takes an active interest in it. Here in West Michigan, we have a very bright and hardworking Secretary Treasurer, Gary Sironen, who is constantly working to protect the interests of his members. He is backed by an activist board that is constantly challenging the status quo and looking for more ways to get a bang for the buck. And they will pursue owners who renige on signed contracts relentlessly.

Doug, my friend, Local 1000 has been around for a while, probably 15 years or so. It was created with folks like Seamus, Rick, and Jed in mind. The Locals required work dues for every jurisdiction you worked in. Got very burdensome and was costing us members. The International, working in concert with the locals, addressed the specific needs of the travelling national acts with its creation. You would be very surprised at the names of its members. It serves large stars and the average musician who make their living on the road.

For me, my dues run about $115.00/year. The Local gets me (a casual musician) 3 to 5 jobs a year which more than covers my dues. I also get paid from the Performing Arts Trust when I play free venues, such as the Festival of the Arts. Add in the amazing all risk insurance for a very reasonable price, and it is a very good deal. I can't speak for anyone else, but I find it to be a helluva good deal. They also have a pension plan that gives a very good rate of return.

All the best,

Mick