490 Elects New President!
/At the beginning of 2024, IATSE Local 490’s membership elected Gary Surber as its’ new President. He succeeds President Matt Muegge. In the election, he ran unopposed. President Surber will lead the Local for the next three years. Before becoming President, Brother Surber was a longtime member of 490, working in the construction, carpentry and art crafts. He will continue to work on those projects. His resume includes many movies and commercial spots, for example, the Coen brother’s A Serious Man, Garrison Keillor’s A Prairie Home Companion and doing art alongside Charlize Theron on North Country. President Surber says this quote from Russel Means inspires him, “If you can't stand for something you will fall for anything.” 490 is fortunate to have his energy helm the organization, now and into the future.
Other election news, sister April Hindrichs was was re-elected for her 2nd term as Vice President. Business Agent Kellie Larson, Treasurer Natasha Georgia and Secretary Owen Bradford all continue to hold their positions for another term. Executive board members at large, Molly Worre and newcomer Tom Franchette complete the Executive board. Sister Deborah Fiscus was re-elected as chair of the Board of Trustees as was Brother Scott Nordhausen and Dan Miller.
IATSE Local 490 is proud to have these fine members lead us in the coming years. We look forward to the positive work they will be doing as our union continues to guide the MN Film Industry.