Author Archives: larenabaldazo
EMMY SF GRACEFULLY HONORS GOLD & SILVER CIRCLE CLASS OF ’22
Emmy SF Gracefully Honors Gold & Silver Circle Class of '22
By: Kevin Wing, SF Chapter Vice President & Joyce Mitchell, Gold & Silver Circle Committee Chair
Smiles filled a packed banquet room in south San Francisco November 12th for the 2022 Gold & Silver Circle induction ceremony. Eight television veterans were honored, celebrating either 25+ or 50+ years working in the TV industry. In addition to time spent in the business, these professionals also have made huge contributions to the industry, community or both.
“The event is one of two held by the TV Academy, the other being the Emmy Gala,” said Joyce Mitchell (SC Class of 2010), Gold & Silver Circle committee chair. “While the gala is wonderful, love seems to envelope the banquet hall during the Silver Circle luncheon event. This year was extra special since we also saluted the classes of 2020 and 2021 that were inducted virtually because of COVID.”
Honored in the Gold Circle this year was Spencer Christian (SC Class of 2013) from San Francisco station KGO ABC 7. Also going into Gold Circle was Fresno’s Kopi Sotiropulos (SC Class of 2018), news and weather anchor at KMPH-TV Fox 26.
Six people were inducted into Silver Circle. They are KGO News Reporter Leslie Brinkley, Sacramento KCRA News Anchor/Reporter Deirdre Fitzpatrick, KGO retired News Producer Bill Green, KPIX 5 Photographer Bob Horn, KCRA Engineer/SNG Operator Dave Ramos and retired Reporter Rob Roth from KTVU Fox 2.
KNTV News Anchor Jessica Aguirre (SC Class of 2018) hosted the induction ceremony with wit and grace. Connecting TV veterans with student broadcasters was a key element of the day’s rundown.
The Gold & Silver Circle supports the NATAS Scholarship Program. Education Chair Toby Momtaz announced the year’s student recipients.
“What a joy it is to introduce students who made some amazing videos competing for our scholarships,” said Momtaz. “For me, this event is stellar because it includes students and professionals. They get a chance to all meet and talk. It’s a win-win.”
Students awarded scholarships were Shirin Bina, Laney College; Saul Ocana, California State University, Fresno; Karlee Hobbs, California State University, Fresno; Yen-Chi (Chris) Chang, University of California, Berkeley-Graduate School of Journalism; Mary Jane Johnson, University of California, Berkeley-Graduate School of Journalism; and Cesar Rojas Angel, University of California, Berkeley-Graduate School of Journalism.
Guests enjoyed and toasted inductees and scholarship recipients with Earthquake Cabernet Sauvignon from the Michael David Winery, Chardonnay from Lightpost Winery and champagne from Guglielmo Winery. Nominations for the 2023 Gold & Silver Circle are being accepted now through April 15th.
![](https://emmysf.tv/files/2022/11/221112NATAS-0153-1024x683.jpg)
NEW GOVERNOR SPOTLIGHT: FAITH SIDLOW
New Governor Spotlight: Faith Sidlow
By Nazy Javid
- Name? Faith Sidlow
- Current job title? Associate Professor and Department Chair, Department of Media, Communications and Journalism
- Where do you work? California State University, Fresno (since 2009).
- If you went to school, where and what did you study? San Diego State University: Broadcast Journalism with a minor in Political Science (BA); California State University, Fresno: Mass Communication and Journalism (MA)
- Where else have you worked? KPBS-FM 1982-1985; KNX 1070 1983-1985; KSEE-TV 1985-2013; Fresno City College 1989-1991 and 2008-2010.
- What other job titles have you had in your career? Assignment editor, producer, reporter, consumer reporter, news anchor, board operator, radio reporter
- How did you decide on your profession? I love to write. From a young age I wanted to be a foreign correspondent. My parents always had the news on in the house, and it was part of my life from an early age.
- If you didn’t work in Television, Arts and Sciences, what would you be doing? I can’t imagine doing anything else. Now that I’m not on the air, I’m teaching. But it’s still television, arts and sciences.
- What do you enjoy most about our industry? The storytelling: Being able to find out why things happen, what makes them work, and then tell a story about it through the eyes of a personal character.
- What do you think is the key to professional success? Curiosity and persistence.
- When do you wake up on a workday? 7 a.m. On a weekend? 7 a.m. (I have dogs).
- Any awards, recognition or accolades you’re proud of? I won a Golden Mike in 2015, two years after I left television. It was an award for a radio piece on did on Honor Flight about WWII and Korean War veterans traveling to Washington D.C. to see the monuments. I’ve also had three Emmy® nominations, and one of my stories, Extreme Faith, won an Emmy® for editing. I didn’t put my name in on that entry, but it was a story I was very proud of. It was about a group of physicians who played in a string quartet. They hauled their instruments up Half Dome in Yosemite and played a concert at the top. It was a beautiful piece. And, of course, I’m extremely proud of being inducted into the Silver Circle Class of 2012.
- Where did you grow up? Orinda (Bay Area)
- Tell us about your loved ones. I was married for 18 years to the love of my life who died earlier this year. We have a blended family of two daughters and two sons. My daughter, Mallory, is a dietitian in Portland; my stepdaughter Emily is a family therapist in Simi Valley; my stepson Tim is a hardware designer at Google and my stepson Marc is a teaching assistant for special ed.
- Do you have any pets? Yes. Two dogs (see photo): a golden retriever, Satchmo and chocolate lab, Oscar.
- Favorite season and why? Spring and fall. Actually, any season except summer, which is brutal in Fresno. I love all of the flowers that bloom in the spring, and I love the fall leaves.
- Are you a risktaker or do you play it safe? In the middle. When I worked in TV, I was a risktaker. But now that I’m older and wiser, I play it safer.
- What is something random about you? I was on KTVU’s Romper Room with Nancy Besst and Capt. Satellite with Bob March back in the 1960s.
- Favorite nonprofit to volunteer with? Liga (Flying Doctors of Mercy) and Hinds Hospice.
- What makes you sad? The loss of my husband who died from mesothelioma on Jan. 29, 2022.
- What makes you happy? My dogs and my family.
- Who is your hero? My husband.
- What motivates you? Deadlines.
- How do you motivate others? With empathy and compassion.
- Favorite inspirational quote? “I have no special talent. I am only passionately curious.” Albert Einstein.
![](https://emmysf.tv/files/2022/11/Faith-Sidlow-Personal-photo.jpg)
VETERAN PROFILE: SHAWN MURPHY
Veteran profile: SHAWN MURPHY
By Nazy Javid & Larena Baldazo
- Please provide an introduction to your military service.
United States Army.
Ended as E-4 P – Specialist promotable at time of honorable discharge.
- Please provide an introduction to your current career.
For the past six years, I have served as the Assignment Editor for ‘Today in the Bay,’ NBC Bay Area’s morning show.
- What motivated you to join the military?
In 2001, I was attending San Jose State University as a Radio, Television and Film major, was active in my fraternity, and was living the life of a young 20-something. Following the devastating events of Sept. 11, there was something in me I just couldn’t shake, much like the rest of the world. But it nagged at me – it was more than fear, sadness and uncertainty. Not to sound cliché, but there was a moment of what I can only describe as a ‘calling.’ I was young, in good health, and had lived a comfortable life. I wanted to give back to a country I love, and I decided one day to visit the military recruitment office. I knew that I didn’t want a career in the military (at least at that time), but I wanted to be a part of something bigger (and there’s nothing bigger than defending your country!). Despite pleas by my parents, girlfriend at the time (now wife), and others, because they knew we were on the brink of war, I really wanted to do it. I decided to leave school – I could always return when my time with the military was complete – and enlisted. And it was one of the best decisions I ever made. I committed to the Army, would serve as a soldier for four years and have experiences that would forever change me.
- Tell me a little about your time in basic training.
NOTHING prepares you for basic training! While I was incredibly confident in my decision, basic training was hard. You leave behind your family, your friends, your routine, and in a sense, your freedom. But that’s because they need to train you, make you strong and resilient. I learned a lot about my abilities physically and emotionally, about teamwork and being a supportive teammate, but also how to make it work. Part of this was due to the fact that had a little ‘tread on the tires’; I was the oldest in my basic training class and not fresh out of high school. At the end of the day, no one here is going to hurt you; they were there to condition you and prepare for you any instance. I understood why the training was structured in the way that it was and looking ahead, every moment of instruction and element of training was incredibly valuable.
- What was your primary job after training?
I was in a quartermaster battalion – that means that I served in a support unit, however, working closely with the ground and tank units on the front lines.
- Where did you serve the majority of time in service?
Given the proximity to Sept. 11, the majority of my time was spent overseas. After training and between deployments I was stationed at Fort Lewis in Washington state. Immediately upon arrival to Washington (after basic training), I was deployed to Iraq as part of the 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment during Operation Enduring Freedom/Iraqi Freedom One, where I spent a year. Thereafter, I went back to Fort Lewis and was then shipped off for my final 15 months of service to a tank unit in the 2nd Infantry Division in South Korea, eight miles from the DMZ.
- Which medals or citations are you most honored to have received, and why?
I was honored to receive the Global War on Terrorism Service medal, the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, and the Korea Defense Service Medal. One of my proudest moments of service was being inducted into the Order of the Spur which is bestowed upon soldiers who served during combat time as a member of a Cavalry unit.
- Tell me a funny story you experienced that could only happen in the military.
In our initial (19 hour) convoy from Kuwait to Camp Anaconda past Baghdad, we lost half our trucks to old age (mine included), and then half our convoy in Baghdad because someone didn’t want to commit to a left turn at a yellow light. While we appreciated their dedication to the traffic laws, we ended up having to use our crane to put arrows up on light posts for several miles in order to get our lost convoy caught up and back to the highway.
- How did your military experience influence your career goals?
What I learned in the military is perseverance, resilience, teamwork, and truly how to compartmentalize. And, though my time serving was invaluable, I was very excited to get back to school upon my return and get to work in the news media. I had originally wanted to work in sports broadcasting. But, having served in wartime, lived in unsafe and volatile places, I wanted to be able to help deliver news to people, to keep them informed, and to ensure we are always practicing the tenants of good journalism. There are so many sides to every story, but people deserve to have the truth, stories to have dignity, and practices of strong ethics. I’m so proud of where I have worked – I truly believe I work with world-class journalists who believe the same thing.
- How does your military experience lend itself to the work you do today?
In addition to what I described above, I also think I learned patience, how to thrive under pressure, and how important your colleagues/team are to achieving strong results and your own success.
- How does your military experience affect your personal life today?
I am incredibly proud of my time in the U.S. Army. I feel a deep pride and devotion to our country. Having seen firsthand people who live with such hardship and fear makes you appreciate what you have, your own freedom, but is also a sobering reminder of humanity and how imperative it is for us to take care of one another in our country and globally. In the end, we’re all part of the same global village. I have immense gratitude for the safety and freedom we have as Americans.
- What have you learned about yourself?
I learned that I am capable of a lot. I can take risks, make scary decisions and navigate them. More than anything, I learned to think beyond my nose – that there is always a much bigger picture to see and to not get swept up in the ‘now.’
- Is there anything you wish civilians understood about military service?
Being a part of the military truly is a selfless act. The people who serve give their time, energy, and in some cases, their lives to protect our freedoms. Regardless of how they may feel about a certain topic, a decision or otherwise, they fall in line and follow orders. That is an incredibly honorable act and I hope that civilians respect that about the people who serve.
- Are there any military nonprofit organizations that you encourage civilians to support?
DAV – Disabled American Veterans – this amazing organization helps more than one million injured and ill veterans annually transition from service to civilian life and provides them a full range of benefits including healthcare, disability, employment education and financial benefits. They also help to advocate for the veteran community on Capitol Hill.
- What is your favorite inspirational military quote?
“This nation will remain the land of the free only so long as it is the home of the brave.”– Elmer Davis (journalist and broadcaster, NY Times reporter, appointed by Roosevelt as head of Office of War Information)
![](https://emmysf.tv/files/2022/11/image5-rotated.jpeg)
VETERAN PROFILE: JESSICA BURCH
Veteran profile: JESSICA BURCH
By Nazy Javid & Larena Baldazo
- Please provide an introduction to your military service (branch/title, etc.)
Army National Guard / 1Lt. Jessica Burch
- Please provide an introduction to your current career (employer/title, etc.)
KPIX Weekday Morning Meteorologist CBS News Bay Area
- What motivated you to join the military?
The opportunity to fly and be a leader.
- Tell me a little about your time in basic training.
I actually did BOLC (Basic Officer Leadership Course) which was the intro to flight training for the Army. It was a year long. and such an amazing experience.
- What was (is) your primary job after training?
I am a pilot for the California Army National Guard.
- Where did (do) you serve the majority of time in service?
I am based out of Mather Airbase in Sacramento.
- Which medals or citations are you most honored to have received, and why?
Earning my wings was one of the best days of my life.
- Tell me a funny story you experienced that could only happen in the military.
I’m grateful there were no cameras on me while first learning to fly Blackhawks, let’s just say I had some bumpy landings at first.
- How did (does) your military experience influence your career goals?
It has given me so much structure in my life and a good foundation of morals and drive.
- How did (does) your military experience lend itself to the work you do today?
Professionalism is very important both as an on-air meteorologist as well as an Army officer.
- How did (does) your military experience affect your personal life today?
I think it gave me more insight to determining what’s important in life. I don’t sweat the small things the same way and I feel comfortable communicating with anyone despite their title or rank.
- What have you learned about yourself?
I am so much stronger than I give myself credit for. I am proud of myself and humble because I know there is still so much more to learn and eager because of that.
- Is there anything you wish civilians understood about military service?
Just because I’m a pilot doesn’t mean I am in the Air Force, LOL.
- Are there any military nonprofit organizations that you encourage civilians to support?
The USO!!
- What is your favorite inspirational military quote?
It’s not a military one… But “we should all take a lesson from the weather, it pays no attention to criticism.”
![](https://emmysf.tv/files/2022/11/j2-748x1024.jpg)
VETERAN PROFILE: KEVIN NIOUS
Veteran profile: Kevin Nious
By Nazy Javid & Larena Baldazo
- Please provide an introduction to your military service.
U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Kevin Nious/California Air National Guard.
- Please provide an introduction to your current career.
I am a producer with NBC News covering the West Coast.
- What motivated you to join the military?
As a journalist, we often cover disasters and tragedies impacting our community without directly getting involved. While impartial journalism plays a critical role in a free society, I also wanted to be part of an organization that provides aid and relief to people in their time of need. This inspired me to join the California Air National Guard in 2019.
- Tell me a little about your time in basic training.
My experience at Lackland Air Force Base during basic military training felt like jumping into a time vortex. No cell phones, no electronics, the living quarters looked like something out of the 60s and everyone in my flight was half my age. Our only connection to the outside world was through letter writing and we couldn’t leave our dormitory due to the recently declared global pandemic. The isolation combined with the meticulous demands of training took a toll on me mentally, which made graduation day one of the proudest achievements of my life. It was just unfortunate that my family and friends were not allowed to attend due to COVID-19 restrictions.
- What is your primary job after training?
I primarily serve as a Public Affairs Specialist documenting rescue missions, facilitating internal communication and archiving my wing’s history.
- Where do you serve the majority of time in service?
I serve with the 129th Rescue Wing at Moffett Air National Guard Base, California.
- Which medals or citations are you most honored to have received, and why?
Graduating from the Defense Information School as a distinguished honor graduate was a huge accomplishment for me because it marked the end of my yearlong training journey and allowed me to finally join my unit.
- Tell me a funny story you experienced that could only happen in the military.
Everyone leaves basic training with a peanut butter addiction because for two months, it’s the only thing sweet you’re allowed to consume, and it’s scarce. People have been known to do some crazy things all for a taste of peanut butter.
- How does your military experience influence your career goals?
Splitting my time between NBC News and the National Guard makes me appreciate the work I do for both organizations even more.
- How does your military experience lend itself to the work you do today?
My military experience has taught me a tremendous amount about leadership. The Air Force expects all airmen to be leaders and helps develop those skills. I have been able to parlay these lessons to my civilian career as a producer.
- How does your military experience affect your personal life today?
My short time in the military has introduced me to people all over the world that I have been able to develop lasting friendships with.
- What have you learned about yourself?
I learned a lot about my physical and mental limits as well as new techniques to push through those limits and reach new heights.
- Is there anything you wish civilians understood about military service?
I wish more people understood the nearly impossible juggling act some of my fellow members of the National Guard have to balance. One day, you could be working an 8-hour office job, preparing to pick up your kid from school when you get a call to fly out to Texas or Florida to provide disaster relief for the next month. These service-members drop everything on a moment’s notice, switch on their military training to complete the mission and seamlessly integrate back into their civilian life.
- Are there any military nonprofit organizations that you encourage civilians to support?
The USO provides tremendous assistance to service-members away from home. The staff couldn’t be any nicer and sometimes a gesture as small as a free snack makes service-members feel appreciated.
- What is your favorite inspirational military quote?
“These Things We Do, That Others May Live.” This is the motto for U.S. Air Force paratroopers. These men go through some of the most rigorous training to be able to dive into some of the most dangerous situation imaginable. Their motto serves as a constant reminder to me the importance of my wing’s mission.
![](https://emmysf.tv/files/2022/11/IMG_9866-768x1024.jpg)
NATAS Member Cynthia Brian Releases First Children’s Book
NATAS Member Cynthia Brian Releases First Children's Book
![](https://emmysf.tv/files/2022/11/FRONT-COVER-NoBarnyardBullies-1080-150x150.jpeg)
Nobody likes a bully. Not even in the animal kingdom!
A member of the San Francisco/Northern California Chapter of The National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences since the 1990’s. bestselling author, actor, and TV/radio personality, Cynthia Brian, debuts her first book in the children’s picture book series, Stella Bella’s Barnyard Adventures, with her charming true-life cadre of characters and endearing illustrations in No Barnyard Bullies, a colorful book about learning to be kind and inclusive.
No Barnyard Bullies follows a pampered piglet who lives in an apartment as she is re-homed to a barnyard filled with a variety of happy critters. Thinking that she is the Queen, she bullies the other animals until she is stopped by a tiny bunny who defends a three-legged goat from her attacks. Everyone is equal in Stella Bella’s barnyard where bullies are not tolerated, and inclusivity is the paramount number one rule.
This is the first book in the series, Stella Bella’s Barnyard Adventures by Cynthia Brian and illustrated by Jensen Russell. Each book is 32 action-packed pages peppered with lively conversations between the species as they discover how to live together serenely and joyfully in a diverse barnyard. Colorful, animated illustrations of the characters bring the prose and poetry dialog to life with timely and timeless tales that are relatable to humans. The animal family of Stella Bella’s Barnyard Adventures experiences complex encounters that challenge their integrity, individuality, and character while amplifying an assortment of expressions and original viewpoints to co-exist as a group. The barnyard animals address critical issues facing children including bullying, nature, power struggles, adversity, adoption, homelessness, creativity, justice, health, kindness, ethnicity, and being different through a cultural lens of hope and resolution. With visually rich illustrations, each picture book will inspire, motivate, and move children to appreciate all animals while learning the lessons the natural world teaches.
The goal of Stella Bella’s Barnyard Adventures is to instill in children wonder and awe of Mother Nature and her creatures as they participate in the escapades of the wild kingdom. Children are encouraged to love themselves exactly the way they are while living in peace and harmony with a barnyard of many colors and beliefs. Family is about whom you love and who loves you. In the series, the true tales will emerge from a variety of different animals, all with a prescription for living as better humans.
Like the Be the Star You Are!® series of books for teens and adults by Cynthia Brian, Stella Bella’s Barnyard Adventures will illuminate a simple fact for kids–we were not created equal. We are far better than equal. We are unique. We are individuals. We each have the ability and the responsibility to use our talents, genius, and strengths to sparkle, shine, and make a positive impact in this small galaxy we call Earth. We must strive to be the stars we were born to be.
Proceeds from the sale of the books benefit the 501 c3 charity, Be the Star You Are!® empowering women, families, and youth through increased literacy and positive media messages. www.BetheStarYouAre.org
Books are available at these online stores: www.BetheStarYouAre.org, www.CynthiaBrian.com, and Amazon.com
Unique and original NFT’s available of illustrations with special perks and events at www.StarStyleCommunity.com
Cynthia Brian is available for media interviews and book signings. Email: Cynthia@CynthiaBrian.com for information.
Stories, Reading, Book Sales, and Signing on November 12 from 3 PM to 5PM at Point Richmond Gallery, 145 W. Richmond Ave, Richmond, Ca. 94801. Families with children encouraged!
“What a wonderful book on such an important topic.” Jennifer Wake, Author and Newspaper Editor
![](https://emmysf.tv/files/2022/11/Cynthia-Brian-Barnyard-pig-300x247.jpeg)
Former KCRA Assignment Editor Jim Drennan Signs Off at the Age of 86
Former KCRA Assignment Editor Jim Drennan Signs Off at the Age of 86
By: Joyce Mitchell
Governor
In a quiet, poetic way, Jim Drennan was a force of nature. He had the strength to calmly manage the whirlwind that comes with overseeing newsrooms and assignment desks. Drennan signed off August 30, 2022 after a brief illness. His death is mourned by the Sacramento television community.
Drennan knew at the age of eleven that he was going to be a journalist. That’s when he earned his first byline in his Bakersfield school newspaper. Born in 1936, Drennan went on to graduate from San Jose University, studying journalism.
Following a two-year stint in the military, Drennan embarked upon a career in newspaper reporting in Madera and then Reno. In 1967, he bravely jumped into TV, becoming news director at KOLO in Reno. A couple of years later, Drennan joined KXTV in Sacramento as news director where he stayed a decade. Then it was on to KCRA Channel 3 as assignment editor/manager and he remained until his retirement in 1993.
An article written about Drennan back in 1972 refers to him as a face-paced man who likes “warmth and authority” in newscasting. He became an intricate part of the development of early TV news days. “These people who come into our living rooms are like an interesting guest who comes in and tells you what happened,” said Drennan in the story. In other words, he said that people must relate to talent, and invite them into their homes as they deliver the news.
Drennan oversaw the transition from film to videotape, a huge development back in the day that changed the TV world as we know it. “The other looming thing in the future is portable videotape,” Drennan is quoted as saying. “I think there’s going to be a battle between super-eight and portable videotape in the next decade or so.”
And was Drennan ever right. He lived to experience a great deal of change in the industry he loved and knew so very well. He also said it again and again – that TV is only as good as the story told. And that made him an excellent assignment editor and newsman. He always found the heart of the story – whether it was produced via film or videotape.
Drennan never stopped for a second after leaving TV. He eventually stepped in to lead Valley Broadcast Legends (VBL), a Sacramento based social club modeled after San Francisco Bay Area Legends – but perhaps even a bit more self-deprecating. As president of VBL, he always had a message in the newsletter to members about what was going on and planned excellent and relevant speakers. The organization lead the way for fun and fellowship for Sacramento’s veteran radio and television professionals.
He also volunteered with the Alzheimer’s Association after dementia claimed the lives of both his mother and partner Kenny Matsumoto. Drennan and Matsumoro had been together 46-years. Matsumoto died in 2019.
During Drennan’s final days, the TV set in his suite at an assisted living facility stayed tuned to news. He was glued to the headlines until the very end of his life. He was a true journalist.
A memorial service was held for Drennan September 22, 2022 by VBL at Sacramento Memorial Lawn. As in full Drennan-style, it was light-hearted, left people smiling about a life well-lived, a life that exuded “warmth and authority.”
![](https://emmysf.tv/files/2022/11/Jim-Drennan-profile.jpg)
Carolyn Tyler Joins San Francisco Film Commission
Carolyn Tyler Joins SF Film Commission
By: Kristin J. Bender
Member Contributor
From “Vertigo” and “The Birds” to “Mrs. Doubtfire” and “The Joy Luck Club,” San Francisco has long been a prime spot for shooting first-class movies.
The Golden Gate Bridge, the Bay, the twisty and narrow streets and the diverse neighborhoods provide a rich backdrop for movies, television shows and commercials.
And it’s the mission of the San Francisco Film Commission and its board to make sure each and every production has a successful shoot in the cinematic city.
NATAS Gov. Carolyn Tyler is one of the new film commission board members.
Tyler, who spent 32 years as an anchor and reporter for KGO-TV/ABC7, was appointed in May by San Francisco Mayor London Breed to join the 10-member board.
“It’s a volunteer job and it’s basically a labor of love,” Tyler of San Francisco says. “I’m just trying to give back to a city that embraced me for 32 years.”
Tyler doesn’t consider herself a film buff, but keeps up on the latest movies and TV shows.
“I’m a San Francisco buff,’’ she says. “I really love this city and I’d like to help.”
She’s in a good position to help.
Because of cost constraints, labor union challenges and pandemic-related issues, some producers choose to come to San Francisco only for the iconic beauty shots. They then go to cheaper markets, such as Austin, Vancouver or Atlanta, to complete filming, Tyler says.
But the commission is working on that with a rebate program and other incentives.
“Nash Bridges took advantage of that,’’ she says. “Nash Bridges” couldn’t have been shot anywhere else.”
As for her favorite San Francisco- based movies, she counts “The Pursuit of Happyness,” “The Joy Luck Club” and “The Last Black Man in San Francisco” among them.
But that could change.
Tyler advises that a remake of “The Thomas Crown Affair” will be shot in San Francisco down the line.
![](https://emmysf.tv/files/2022/10/Carloyn-Tyler-1024x1024.jpg)
Board Retreat Renews Enthusiasm and Ignites Ideas
Board Retreat Renews Enthusiasm and Ignites Ideas
Great minds from the newly seated NATAS San Francisco/Northern California Board of Governors met in-person and virtually, for a fruitful day focused on serving our Chapter and its members.
For some, it may have felt like the first day of school. The excitement spilled throughout the meeting rooms and event space at OakStop in downtown Oakland on a sun-filled Saturday in August.
“The enthusiastic interaction and collaboration was quite wonderful,” National Trustee Alison Gibson said. “It shows we are all working together in earnest to make this Chapter stronger than ever.”
As the newly-elected President, it was my first time leading a retreat to culminate new ideas, provide structure, and aim to get every board member involved in one or more of our hardworking committees.
![](https://emmysf.tv/files/2022/08/220813SABradley-9489-Edit-BROOKS-1024x920.jpg)
The retreat began with introductions and then breakout sessions between our markets including the Bay Area, Sacramento, Hawaii, Fresno, and other smaller markets. It allowed the Vice Presidents who represent those areas to discuss what mattered most, including how the organization could better serve those markets.
While NATAS is often only associated with the coveted Emmy Awards, our efforts in producing programs, funding and awarding scholarships, and providing valuable mentorships for our members, are just a few other key objectives.
“This was among the most productive board retreats I’ve attended in over a decade on the board,” said Finance Co-Chair Julie Watts. “Our newly elected board members brought energy and fantastic ideas.”
Those ideas for new initiatives led to robust discussions about events, sponsorships, member benefits, outreach and diversity. Stay tuned.
Great strides were also made to bolster key committees, including the Education Committee.
“This year’s smaller and much more focused group came up with many more innovative ideas for us to devote ourselves to in the coming year,” said Toby Momtaz who chairs the committee.
By assigning governors to specific roles or tasks in committees, plans are already being charted to encourage greater participation and expand our Chapter’s reach.
Ultimately, all of us on the board volunteer our service for the betterment of our Chapter, to serve our members, and to acknowledge and reward excellence.
I speak for all of us when I say, we are always open to new ideas, criticism, and finding ways to evolve and innovate.
“The retreat was just what we needed to discuss our needs, as a chapter and from a committee standpoint, to collaborate and restructure things,” said Marketing Chair Larena Baldazo. “I am excited to see how we evolve from here.”
If you have ideas or feedback, please email brooks@emmysf.tv
![](https://emmysf.tv/files/2022/08/IMG_6882-horseshoe-left-1.jpg)
![](https://emmysf.tv/files/2022/08/220813SABradley-9564-Edit-all-good-1024x715.jpg)