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NOTE: The following commentary appeared in the ICG
Magazine June Commentary from George Spiro Dibie A
Fond Farewell and a Final Request This final editorial is an opportunity to thank my many friends and colleagues for their support and friendship during these past 20 years. There have been countless times when they have risen to the occasion and have been there for the Guild and for me when we have needed them. Frank Stanley, ASC, my predecessor as Guild president, re-inforced my natural instinct that action speaks louder than words. Frank inspired and encouraged me to play an active role in the Guild. There are so many other people whom I should thank. Where would I be today if Danny Arnold hadn’t given me the opportunity to collaborate with him on the Barney Miller series? Both of those gentlemen have departed from this Earth, but they left an indelible impression on me. I have tried to repay the debt I owe them by offering a helping hand to others. I owe an incalculable debt to the people who have been part of my crews over the years. How can I say thank you to the staff and many volunteers who have given their hearts and souls to our Guild during these past 20 years? I wish there was sufficient space to list every one of them in this editorial, but that isn’t practical. I will miss seeing them everyday, but they are constantly in my heart. I offer my congratulations to all of the new officers of our Guild. They will have my support in their endeavors for our members. My only regret is that 100 percent of our members didn’t participate in the election of our new officers. Perhaps I appreciate the importance of the democratic process more than most people, because this isn’t my native land. I came to this country as an immigrant and learned to appreciate how important it is for everyone to exercise his or her rights as citizens. We are free to express our opinions, which isn’t something we should take for granted. There are many places in our world today where people are afraid to speak their minds, and the right to vote is denied. We are truly privileged to have the right to vote and select the people who will represent us and our wishes in every level of our local, state and national government. I urge every one of our members to be good citizens and register to vote in the coming elections. I urge you to encourage your families, neighbors and friends to do the same. I implore you to pay attention to the issues that will determine the future of our country. These issues range from nothing less than war and peace and the role we play as citizens of the world; to the health and education of families, neighbors and friends; whether there is equal justice for all; the environment, which is our legacy for future generations; and let’s not forget the plight of our industry, which is so vitally important to the cultural and financial health of our country. It is easy to complain and vent our frustrations on the Internet, but if we are sincere about wanting change, it is up to each of us to register, learn about the issues and vote for what is right for the future of our country, our families and our Guild. Again, I can’t stress how important it is for you to register and vote
in the upcoming November elections. Your future and your children’s future
depend on it. George Spiro Dibie, ASC |