ALAN HEIM
EDITORS GUILD PRESIDENT
It has been a pleasure to be the president of MPEG for the whole period of Cathy’s leadership. It was amazing to watch her recover from the experiences of 2018, create relationships with the other locals we negotiate in tandem with, and lead us to the best contract in recent memory.
SCOTT GEORGE
NATIONAL EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR (FORMERLY WESTERN EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR)
Your dedication and commitment to the membership have been truly inspiring and will leave a lasting impact. It has been a privilege to work alongside you during your tenure as National Executive Director. Throughout your journey, you have faced numerous challenges with resilience and leadership, guiding and navigating the membership through each one. The memories we’ve shared and the friendships we’ve built will endure as you continue on your path.
BILL ELIAS
LOCAL 700 SERGEANT AT ARMS
I’ve had the privilege of serving on the board for 52 years, and during that time, I’ve met many exceptional people. Cathy Repola stands out as one of the best. From the moment she joined us in 1992, I knew she was the right person for the job. Her name immediately brought to mind her father’s legacy, and I was thrilled that Ron recognized her potential and brought her aboard. Cathy’s leadership has been transformative. Whether supporting retirees, advocating for women’s rights, championing diversity and LGBTQ+ inclusion, or
working tirelessly for our members, she has always led with integrity and compassion. I’ll never forget standing with her on countless picket lines, attending fundraisers, or simply seeing her embrace every challenge with grace and determination.
In 1998, I accompanied her to New York City for election nominations for the newly merged New York local. This trip remains a fond memory—exploring the city, marveling at how much it had changed since 1993 (mostly the crime rate), and being escorted to the “best pizza place in NYC” by a local police officer. In 2000, when Paramount planned to outsource its syndication department, I brought my concerns to her and Ron. Thanks to their push for arbitration (which we won), we saved countless jobs and ensured an entire department could retire without a single lost day of work. Cathy’s determination was evident again in 2014 when she led efforts to educate people about AB1839 and helped bring over $5 billion back to California through tax incentives. I was proud to be one of three editors that assisted Cathy in making the video that was instrumental in persuading people in Sacramento to vote for the Assembly Bill. In 2017, at the IATSE International Convention, I was proud to see Cathy recognized as Woman of the Year — a testament to her dedication and leadership. This award is truly deserved, and it was a privilege to witness.
Her first contract negotiation as Executive Director in 2018 was nothing short of extraordinary. Cathy boldly stood up to IATSE when streaming revenue was excluded from the deal, even though she faced significant opposition. She organized a general membership meeting that filled two banquet halls, rallying the members and proving her strength as a leader.
Beyond her professional achievements, Cathy’s warmth and camaraderie have left an undeniable mark. She’s always been a champion of taking a proper lunch break—something I wholeheartedly agree with—and her presence on the dance floor at events always brought joy to everyone around her. At conventions, she ensured our delegates were cared for with good food, good wine, and good company. With the embodiment of resilience and a steadfast commitment to doing what’s right, Cathy has been more than a great executive director; she’s a dear friend and an exceptional person. Her kindness, dedication, and unwavering support for our members have made a lasting impact. I’ve known her for 32 years, and she’s always taken my calls, embraced others with warmth, and led with a motto we both cherish: Be Kind to All Kinds.
HUDSON MILLER
LOCAL 700 VICE PRESIDENT
Congratulations Cathy! It’s been a great journey. When you came to the Editors Guild we were a small local with big dreams. Over the years we have had both heartbreaks and victories. We have mourned contract setbacks, pandemic work restrictions, and industry strikes, but we also have celebrated membership growth, built labor unity both internally and across the Hollywood labor community, dramatically improved our stand-alone contracts, and achieved a ground-breaking 2024 Basic Agreement.
There is no better example of your vision and leadership than the campaign for first-use residual fees (I prefer to call them profit participation) to build a new and sustainable funding source for our MPI health and pension benefits. You took us from the impossible dream to the accomplishment in six short years! In union time this was supersonic speed! Every mile of this rocket ride was impossibly difficult; but nothing worthwhile comes easily. It was your leadership and vision that led us to this victory, a victory that will dramatically improve the lives of hundreds of thousands of Hollywood IATSE families for decades to come. On behalf of all the members of the Editors Guild, now and forever, I wish to extend our most heartfelt gratitude. You put the immortal words of Dolores Huerta to work: “¡Sí, se puede!”
SHIRAN CAROLYN MILLER
BOARD MEMBER
To Cathy, our Norma Rae, thank you for being a role model, showing what a fierce union leader who happens to be a woman looks like.
By standing up for yourself and our membership, despite the difficulties, you inspired me to speak up and take a stand for what I believe in, too.
I remember around 2018, I mentioned to you wishing there was a system to help people with hours. I didn’t realize I had any ability to do something about it until you empowered me to realize what I can do and work towards my goal. That mindset switch was a game changer for me that I’ll never forget. We haven’t always agreed on everything, but that was the beauty of it.
We pushed each other to do things better, and together, I think we did some really great things that improved this union. Thank you for 32 years of devoted service to this Guild and for always listening and being open to new ideas, even if it was doing something outside your comfort zone, like singing karaoke. I will always fondly remember watching you in your element, passionately presenting our proposals to the AMPTP on the first day of local negotiations. We’ve been incredibly lucky to have you, and your impact on this union will last for decades to come.
THE IATSE HOLLYWOOD LOCALS
IATSE GUILDS
As you step into this new chapter of your life, Cathy, we of the 13 IATSE Hollywood locals come together to celebrate your remarkable career and profound impact. Throughout your tenure as the National Executive Director of the Editors Guild, you have been more than a leader; you have been a friend, a unifier, and, above all, the glue that held us together during some of the most challenging moments in our shared history.
Your guidance during the Basic Agreement negotiations exemplified your determination and fierce loyalty to both your members and the broader IATSE community. Negotiations are never easy, but you approached them with an unyielding resolve and a deep understanding of the stakes for every individual whose livelihood depends on the contracts we fight for. Time and again, you showed us the power of persistence and the importance of standing firm in the face of adversity. Your unwavering belief in the collective good was an inspiration and a guiding force for us all.
Your contributions reach far beyond the negotiating table. You have a unique ability to bring people together, finding common ground in even the most complex and contentious situations. In a world that often highlights division, you have been a beacon of unity. Your knack for fostering collaboration and mutual respect among the Locals created a sense of solidarity that has never been seen before, strengthening us beyond our expectations. Whether it was through thoughtful advice, kind words, or tireless efforts behind the scenes, you reminded us that we are stronger together.
It is not just your professional acumen that we admire, but also your deeply caring nature. Your dedication to your membership has always been evident — not just in your advocacy for their rights, but in your genuine concern for their well-being. You have consistently gone above and beyond, ensuring that every voice was heard, every concern addressed, and every member felt valued. This same compassion extended to us, your colleagues and peers. Your friendship has been a source of comfort and joy, and your unwavering support has lifted us through difficult times.
Of course, we cannot forget the personal touches that made working with you so memorable. Whether it was sharing a laugh during a long meeting, your ability to keep us grounded with your wisdom, or the warmth you brought into the room, you reminded us that at the heart of all we do is a shared commitment to each other.
As you retire, know that your legacy will endure. You leave behind not just a stronger Editors Guild, but a more unified and resilient IATSE Hollywood community. We are forever grateful for your leadership, your friendship, and the countless ways you have touched our lives.
Thank you Cathy, for being the heart and soul of so much of what we have achieved together. We wish you joy, peace, and every happiness in the years ahead. You deserve nothing less.
With deepest love and admiration, The 13 IATSE Hollywood locals
COLLEEN GLYNN
FORMER CHAIR OF IA WOMEN’S STEERING COMMITTEE
I first met Sister Repola in 2013 when I attended the Wednesday women’s dinner at the mid-winter general executive board meeting in Nashville as a brand-new business manager. I was super impressed by her genuine enthusiasm as she welcomed the newcomers and celebrated the success of the IATSE women in the room. She helped foster meaningful connections and relationships between IATSE sisters that have blossomed over the years.
In 2015, President Loeb created the first official IATSE Women’s Committee (IWC) and entrusted Sister Repola to be our first chair. It has been an absolute honor to have the privilege of working alongside Sister Repola as part of her steering committee. As it turned out, we learned we have a ton in common: We both proudly follow in our fathers’ footsteps. We share a deep love for the IATSE, our families, and the passion for the betterment of all our union sisters, brothers, and kin.
Cathy, I wish you “Happy Trails” as you begin the next chapter of your life. Congratulations on your well-deserved retirement! I am super grateful to have had the opportunity to work so closely with you, getting to know and love you. The highlight of our work together has to be the ambitious 2017 Quadrennial Convention IWC event we put together in Hollywood, Florida — a tough act to follow for sure but a treasured memory. I will miss you and your awesome can-do attitude, and I will always keep you in mind as I carry on your great work as chair of our IATSE Women’s Committee.
Lots of love and respect, your Sister and Friend, XO, Colleen
BOB BEITCHER
PRESIDENT & CEO OF MPTF
I have had the real pleasure of knowing Cathy and her family for many years. Going back to pre-history, her brother Art and I
played on the same company softball team at Lucasfilm in the early 1980s. Yes, that’s how old we all are!
More recently, as CEO of MPTF I’ve witnessed Cathy in action in her contributions to the Editors Guild and to the IATSE guild leadership group that MPTF met with frequently for many years. She is bright, inventive, and a fearless advocate for the members of her guild and for entertainment union members across the call sheet. She has always spoken her mind and it has always been with the best interests of all in her scope. Cathy and Buffy invented the Heartbeat Lite golf tournament, an ancillary event to the major Heartbeat of Hollywood that featured miniature golf for those who didn’t indulge in the main event. What a fun time everyone had and what a great financial success Heartbeat Lite was, raising much needed funds for MPTF’s mission of taking care of our own.
And perhaps unique to others providing remembrances of Cathy, I’ve also witnessed her as a loving and dedicated daughter, taking care of her own, visiting with and caring for her mother Mary who was a resident at MPTF’s Country Home for many years. There was always love in their respective hearts for each other. Mary was so proud of Cathy’s achievements and shared them with me and her friends and staff on campus. And Cathy was always there for her mother, even in the most difficult times when communicating with her became incredibly complicated. (Cathy, could confirm this, but I think at one point she assumed either that Cathy was my boss or I was Cathy’s boss.)
All of this showed me what a big heart she has – as if I didn’t already know!
I can only wish Cathy the most joyful and fulfilling years ahead!
LISA CHURGIN
EDITOR
Cathy, Cathy, Cathy – let me count the ways! And the years! So many years!! I was on the Board when you started working for Local 776 in 1992. That was way before we were a national union. Little did we know how so very lucky we were on that day.
We have seen incredible changes during your tenure. Membership involvement has grown and there is now a way for just about everyone in our diverse membership to make their voice heard. You have a true understanding of what it means to be an Editor, working in features and television, and in each and every classification. Your skill and efforts, along with staff to organize and defend our rights as per our contracts, have helped us grow into the union that we are today.
I want to thank you for your commitment and passion and leadership. You have been tireless in working to get us what is right and what is fair as workers in this unstable industry. It was inspiring during this last contract to be part of our local negotiations. You kept pushing and pushing – we ended up negotiating for so many more days than any other local. You did not give up. And even though we didn’t get everything we wanted, we made inroads with so many of our demands.
I wish you nothing but the best for this next chapter in your life. May it be filled with fun and adventure and laughter!
LILLIAN BENSON
EDITOR & LOCAL 700 BOARD MEMBER
Thank you, Cathy, for your years of dedicated service to the editing community. Throughout our time working together, you have shown unwavering integrity and courage in your fight to protect our members and improve our lives. Your intelligence, insight, and empathy have been instrumental in safeguarding our future, even when it came with personal sacrifices. You’ve set an example of how to be a beacon of light in these often challenging and dark times. We are deeply grateful for your leadership and all you’ve done for us.
THE REPOLA SIBLINGS
CATHY’S SIBLINGS
We have watched with the utmost pride and admiration as Cathy followed in the footsteps of our Father and then carved out her own remarkable legacy. Her unwavering integrity and dedication to what is in the best interest of every individual member, as well as the guild as a whole, have earned her the unequalled respect of all who have had the privilege of working with her. We couldn’t be more proud of her accomplishments. As she transitions to a well-deserved new path, we wish her nothing but the very best in all that comes next.
ERIK C. ANDERSEN
EDITOR & LOCAL 700 BOARD MEMBER
I want to express my heartfelt gratitude for everything you’ve done for our guild and for me personally. Your guidance and support inspired me to become a board member. You showed me that I could contribute to strengthening our guild and positively impact our members’ lives. I will always cherish the time we’ve spent together. Cheers to new adventures!
EMMA DUPELL
EDITOR & LOCAL 700 BOARD MEMBER
Cathy – I was always proud to be in the union (and still am), it was one of my biggest goals – get in the union! In 2018, when you defied the status quo, it ignited a passion in me that I didn’t know I had. Seeing a strong woman in a leadership position, sticking to her morals and not giving up was absolutely inspiring. I’m sure I’m not the only one who felt a calling to do more and do better for their union because of your courageous effort to fight for what’s right. You have given 100% of yourself to us, and we are infinitely grateful. I look forward to continuing working with you in smaller doses as you begin your new journey. While I am sad to see you go as our NED, there is no one more deserving of a happy and peaceful retirement. This is not a goodbye, but a see you later.
Best,
Emma
ROBERT PHILLIPS
EDITOR
Thank you for your service and Enjoy Retirement!
LISA DOSCH
LOCAL 700 COLLEAGUE – LOS ANGELES
An Ode to My Boss
For 32 years, we’ve worked side by side,
And for the last eight, you’ve been our guide.
Through mergers, moves, and staff who’ve come and gone,
We’ve stayed together ever so strong
We’ve had late nights and long days, and we gave it our all,
But now the time has come for your last curtain call
No emails, no deadlines, no urgent calendar alerts—
Just comfy slippers and less paperwork!
Your next chapter now takes the stage,
A beautiful blank book, a brand-new page
Here’s to you, with a heartfelt adieu,
May joy and adventure fill your days anew.
To say we’re like sisters doesn’t quite fit—
No fights, just teamwork, humor, and wit.
So don’t be a stranger—please drop me a line,
I’ll raise my glass when we meet for wine!
MOLLY SHOCK
EDITOR & LOCAL 700 BOARD MEMBER
Dear Cathy,
Thank you.
For your leadership, your service, and your heart.
For your willingness to talk and to listen.
Working with you, serving alongside you, and following under your leadership was a privilege and an honor that will remain a shining high point of my career.
My sadness that our time of service together for our union is ending will always be outshone by the hundreds of fond memories I have of you. I will never forget the sight of you addressing 1800 in person MPEG members at the Universal Sheraton, or dancing the conga with you in Hawaii.
I wish for you and Kathy so many new adventures together, but I hope that some of those adventures give us the opportunity to cross paths again.
Thank you.
For everything.
But especially, thank you for your friendship.
– Molly Shock ACE
Picture Editor Representative 2016-2024
RACHEL IGEL
EDITOR
Dear Cathy,
I can’t believe how the years have flown by. It seems like yesterday that Donn Cambern was president and you and I were new to the guild and the board. Things that happened more than 30 years ago sometimes seem like yesterday. I guess that proves I’m really getting old!
It’s been a pleasure working with you all these years. The board and the staff, Ron and you, have accomplished so much over these many years. We can be very proud of all that we have done, and you can be very proud of your dedication to the guild and to its members.
But most important of all, you can be proud of being a good person. Cathy, you are kind, compassionate, and you truly care about others. These are qualities that are so important in life. I’m proud to be your colleague and your friend. I wish only good things for you in the future in whatever endeavors you choose. And I wish you happiness.
With great affection,
Rachel Igel
MAYSIE HOY
EDITOR & LOCAL 700 BOARD MEMBER
CONGRATULATIONS, CATHY ON YOUR RETIREMENT. I WANT TO THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE. YOU’VE BEEN OUR FEARLESS LEADER AND GUIDING LIGHT THROUGHOUT ALL THESE YEARS.
WISHING YOU ALL THE BEST.
LOVE MAYSIE
JOHN AXELRAD
EDITOR
Cathy, you gave your heart and soul to the members of the Editors Guild, and for that, we are eternally grateful. You battled in many tough situations and always had our best interests in mind. You were always accessible and communicative, which ushered in a newfound trust in Union leadership. Bravo!
I wish you nothing but the best as you enjoy your retirement!
Cheers,
John Axelrad
ROBERT LANFORD
EDITOR
Dear Cathy,
You have served as National Director for almost my entire time in Local 700. It has been such a blessing to have you as our leader. During that time, your leadership has always been thoughtful, compassionate, and proactive with a clear vision. You have always given it to us straight and been pragmatic. I have the deepest respect for you because of it.
I will always respect you for the way you put your position in iatse on the line in 2018 and spoke out against a deal that you felt was subpar despite the immense pressure from the IA. I know they punished you by removing you from the MPIPHP board because of it, which I am sure was hurtful, but it showed the kind of character that you are made of. Which of course is the absolute highest character.
The compassion and empathy that you have shown throughout the strikes and slow down of the past year plus has meant so much to me and I appreciate that you have always made yourself available to answer members’ questions and field our frustrations.
I wish you a restful and fulfilling retirement. May you have many more years of joy with your friends and family.
You will be missed within MPEG. Yours are very big shoes to fill.
All the best,
Robert Lanford
BILL MEADOWS
EDITOR
Cathy
Congratulations on your retirement!
I wish we had interacted more during my short time on the Board, but I will be forever grateful for all that you have done for the Guild.
Enjoy the next phase!
Bill Meadows
HOLLY SKLAR
EDITOR
Cathy,
You truly have been the Norma Rae of 700, championing members and tirelessly working to make things better for everyone, in every classification, small and large. You are union-made, from your family roots to how you have lived your entire career path. You have been a forthright voice for 700 among the other locals’ leaders and national leadership too. And you have done it with humor (much needed in your job) and often, with grace. On a personal note, I always get it straight from you, and as a New Yorker (born and raised there, transplanted to L.A.) I 100% appreciate it! Enjoy your well-deserved retirement, and lucky for us, 700 will still get the benefit of your experience and wisdom for a while this coming year.
All the best,
Holly Sklar
MAUREEN O’CONNELL
EDITOR
Cathy epitomizes this stanza of the poem Bread and Roses:
As we go marching, marching
We bring the greater days
For the rising of the women
Means the rising of the race
Cathy’s contributions to trade unionism are inscribed in labor legend, her leadership a lesson for all who follow. Most particularly, every “union maid” is in her debt.
All the roses, Sister Repola, all the love,
Maureen O’Connell
JESSICA PRATT
LOCAL 700 COLLEAGUE – LOS ANGELES
Congratulations, Cathy! Wishing you the best in this next half. I hope your days are filled with loved ones, good meals, and great wine.
Jessica
JENNIFER MYERS
LOCAL 700 COLLEAGUE – NEW YORK
Cathy,
I’m grateful to have had the opportunity to work with you over the past few years. All the best to you in your retirement!
SANDY FONG-GING
LOCAL 700 COLLEAGUE – NEW YORK
Cathy, it was wonderful working with you. Wishing you a happy retirement.
Sandy
A.J. CATOLINE
EDITOR & LOCAL 700 BOARD MEMBER
Cathy! Thank you for your decades of service to our Guild. As our fearless leader, you leave a legend behind of standing up for our members and making great change.
I recall the first time I met you, I had just joined the Guild 20 years ago and I didn’t know much about what a union was. I came to a seminar event about how to network and you welcomed everyone and gave us words of encouragement that connecting with other members was the most valuable thing we could do. And I thought, this woman is really cool and I like this new place. And I took your advice to heart, and so I guess it worked!
I remember when you transitioned to National Executive Director after Ron and it was a challenging time for our union. It took tremendous courage and tenacity at your first negotiations to stand up for what you believed was in our best interest. And with conviction you encouraged us to vote NO on the contract. That took a lot of guts and I was inspired to be part of a union fight. And because you lead us to hold strong to our principles of getting a fair deal, Local 700 felt banished to the wilderness for a few years. You led us out of that dark forest and to a place where, 6 years later, we could feel proud of getting the best contract in a long time.
Thank you for navigating the best of times and the worst of times and doing so with heart and great wit. I remember after the IATSE District 2 convention, it was the last day and you joked that you were in Hawaii but had spent the week entirely indoors. You wanted to enjoy the last day, and you helped organize a boat trip with the other delegates. I chose to go snorkeling instead so, regrettably, I did not attend. After the trip another delegate Kevin Ross showed me a photo of you looking out at the ocean and you looked very happy and serene. Kevin is on the Publications Committee with me and he said” “this should DEFINITELY be the next cover of Cinemontage.” So he mocked up an example which we’ve kept to ourselves. But I wanted to share with you, just in case we want to try that as an idea sometime. Thank you.
We will miss you, onward and upward and wishing you the best.
solidarity forever,
A.J. Catoline, ACE
STEPHEN RIVKIN
EDITOR
Dear Cathy,
Words cannot adequately express my gratitude for your 32 years of constant service to our Guild. During your time as National Executive Director, and you know I’ve been on the Board from the start, you have had a monumental impact on our local and made countless significant improvements. With unwavering commitment and leadership, you navigated us through rough waters and helped make the Union better, stronger, and more united.
Wishing you good health, love, and happiness.
All the best,
Stephen Rivkin
TINA HOOKOM
EDITOR
Dear Cathy,
Congratulations on your retirement and reaching this milestone. I am so glad I have had the opportunity to work with you and Local 700 in the last few years. You are a compassionate and dynamic leader who demonstrates excellence by example. I am excited for you to take the well-deserved break you have earned. And I am also aware of what the gap and absence of your voice will mean for our community. You will be missed.
I hope there is an opportunity to see you. Please know that you and Local 700 will be on my mind during this transition.
My best
Tina
JENNI MCCORMICK
EDITOR
I’m a behind the scenes kinda person, so I rarely make public statements. However, if I could grow up to become as wonderful a person as Cathy Repola, in my next life I absolutely would.
JERRY ROSS
EDITOR
Cathy,
Just a brief word of thanks for being such a great leader for all of us in the guild!
You have guided us with patience, courage and integrity.
The high standards you brought to the leadership along with a compassionate heart have led to a growing involved and activated membership.
Thanks for all of your dedication and enduring contributions!
All best,
Ubuntu,
Jerry
NENA ERB
EDITOR
Dear Cathy,
Congratulations on your retirement! Thank you for your unwavering support and for being a tireless advocate for us all these years. My pup Bella and I wish you an abundance of love, happiness, and great health in your retirement
Cheers,
Nena Erb, ACE
ELISA COHEN
EDITOR
Dear Cathy,
Thank you for all of your hard, dedicated, fearless work to make our Guild strong and get the best possible for our membership. You have gone to amazing lengths for us, and I have appreciated your energy and efforts to keep us informed, involved and encouraged to make good change.
Your legacy of strength and perseverance will be enshrined in Local 700’s history.
Thank you also for being a role model to women, for being a voice that doesn’t back down, and for putting up with ALL the Bros, and the reality of male dominance in this arena, and all that you have been able to change during your tenure.
Best of luck in your next chapter of life.
With Love and respect,
Elisa Cohen
LUIS CARDET
LOCAL 700 COLLEAGUE – LOS ANGELES
Dear Cathy,
Congratulations on your well-deserved retirement! We’ll miss your presence around the office. Thank you for your leadership, guidance, and mentorship. I hope that this new chapter is filled with sunshine, laughter, and all the things you’ve always wanted to do. Enjoy every moment!
Best wishes,
Luis
FARREL LEVY
EDITOR
Dear Cathy,
Boys and girls both have dreams and aspirations as they grow up, and you and I were no different, I’m sure. As a woman, I knew that things were different for me in the “bro” culture of the film business, but I was proud to be a warrior in this influential army. A big part of that was accepting that as the norm. Things are the way they are and if you want to play you just accept it.
And that is exactly why your being selected to run our union was such a game changer and an inspiration for me, for others who were not white heterosexual males, and ultimately for everyone. Simply because you are not a “bro,” you brought a much needed alternate perspective to this proud organization both on the day to day, as well as on the national level. Throughout your tenure you have shown us all how things can be different and better. You have been an active communicator, both listening deeply to the concerns of the membership as well as educating us with timely, detailed information that has enabled all of us to act with agency around workplace issues.
Yes, agency…because when you come from a place where agency is not a birthright, you realize how critical it is to our success at work and in
life. Different perspectives are what bring growth and positive change to organizations, and that is why it has been so valuable to have had your voice in the game.
I think I speak for all of us when I say that your integrity in battle has been an inspiration as well. You knew way back that the funding of the pension fund was on shaky ground, and you fought hard to have it shored up. But your view was not taken seriously. You persisted in this very important fight, only to be sidelined by the other folks in leadership, and that contract had no pension fund protections built in. We all know that ultimately you were vindicated and proven to have understood what the others did not. Taking on these men, standing firmly for what you believed was best for us, and for the whole IA took real guts and fortitude. That must have been extremely difficult and sadly we see this far too little in our leaders.
In my book you have been a true role model and we are all the beneficiaries both spiritually and materially. It is my hope that your constructive and compassionate practices will be reflected and built upon in the coming years. Just be assured, as you move on, that you have truly made a positive difference in the lives of many.
Love,
Farrel
JIM TURNER
LOCAL 700 COLLEAGUE – LOS ANGELES
Thank you, Cathy, for your decades of dedicated service to Local 700. Although I’ve only been here for the home stretch of that run, I know how much the members and our staff appreciate you and all you’ve accomplished. I sincerely thank you for bringing me onboard and making me feel like part of a family. Wishing you all the happiness you can handle in your retirement!
JEFF GRAVES
LOCAL 700 COLLEAGUE – LOS ANGELES
Just wanted to thank you so much for your service to the members of IATSE Local 700 and to acknowledge all the hard work you’ve done on behalf of the Motion Picture Editors Guild — working tirelessly for strong contracts, social & economic justice; as an advocate for not only post production crew, but the entertainment industry as a whole and workers rights in general, in the service of the labor movement as a strong, intelligent and inspirational labor leader! I hope you enjoy your well deserved break!
Jeff Guillermo Graves
AMARILIS GUTIERREZ
LOCAL 700 COLLEAGUE – LOS ANGELES
Dear Cathy,
Congratulations on your well-deserved retirement! Your leadership, dedication and tireless advocacy for the members have left an indelible mark. Your ability to champion fairness and support the members in a constantly changing industry has inspired all of us.
As you move on this exciting new chapter, I hope you take the time to relax, enjoy new adventures and savor every moment. Wishing you health, happiness and success in all your future endeavors.
With gratitude,
Amarilis Gutierrez
EMMA TSE
LOCAL 700 COLLEAGUE – LOS ANGELES
Dear Cathy,
I’ve only gotten to know you these last couple of years, but since my first interview with you before I began working at the Guild you have been nothing but kind and welcoming. Thank you for your continued warmth and sincerity – you’ve done so much for the Guild and will be missed! Wishing you a smooth transition into your new life in SLO!
Best,
Emma
MUNEEB HASSAN
LOCAL 700 COLLEAGUE – NEW YORK
I just want to say thank you for being such a wonderful boss, mentor, and inspiration. Your kindness, guidance, and strength have meant so much to me, and I’m truly grateful for everything I’ve learned from you. While I’ll miss working with you, I’m so happy to see you step into this new chapter—you deserve every bit of joy and relaxation ahead. Thank you for everything, and here’s to all the amazing adventures waiting for you!
SHANNON BAKER DAVIS
EDITOR & LOCAL 700 BOARD MEMBER
Dear Cathy,
Grateful for you and your leadership! You’re a trailblazer and an inspiration, and you always worked so tirelessly for Local 700. I witnessed it as a member of the Board! You always served with love, and for that I will be forever grateful. I will always remember the fun times we always had at D2! Happy retirement! Appreciate you!
—Shannon Baker Davis, ACE
ERIC KENCH
LOCAL 700 COLLEAGUE – LOS ANGELES
Cathy,
Thank you for everything you’ve done for the Editors Guild. You’ve set an amazing example and I’m proud to have worked with you! Best wishes on your retirement!
Solidarity,
Eric Kench
HAROLENA GAINES
LOCAL 700 COLLEAGUE – LOS ANGELES
It’s been an honor working under your leadership. You’ve inspired us all, Cathy! Congrats! You truly do deserve it. Your impact as a leader will be felt long after you leave. Wishing you happiness beyond retirement.
Many Thanks!
ROB CALLAHAN
LOCAL 700 COLLEAGUE – LOS ANGELES
Many thanks to Cathy for all her tireless work in championing working folks, and, most significantly, for the unique warmth that was ever the lodestar of her leadership. Under her guidance, members of our union came to better understand what it means to stand up for themselves and for one another. We’re a stronger union for the years with her at the helm.
STEPHANIE LOWRY
EDITOR & LOCAL 700 BOARD MEMBER
Congratulations on your retirement Cathy! It’s been at times a wild ride together through the hills and dales of contract negotiations and other fun stuff, but we always made it to the other side one way or another! Thank you for working tirelessly on behalf of our hard-working members. As you enter this next phase of your life, take with you the lessons you’ve learned from leading such a large group of diverse members and continue to do what you can to make the world a better place.
Cheers,
Stephanie Lowry
NICOLE A. FLETCHER
EDITOR
Dear Cathy,
Thank you so very much for your many years of selfless dedication to this guild and its members. It would not be where it is today without your strength and direction. We will miss you!
Warmest regards and well wishes for you in the future,
Nicole A. Fletcher
ANN HADSELL
LOCAL 700 COLLEAGUE – LOS ANGELES
Cathy Repola, Cathy Repola.
There are no words that can possible convey the amount of respect and admiration I have for you. I am the luckiest person ever to have had the great fortune to work with you for the last 14 years. I have watched you stand up for your beliefs and do what you know is right even though it was costly personally. I have held up picket signs with you, laughed with you, and learned from you. You have taught me patience and forgiveness. You taught me that heart is more important than skill (although skill comes in handy). I will always be grateful to you for allowing me the privilege to work the Guild. I will always think of you as the best boss I ever had. I love you Cathy Repola, you deserve the very best life has to give you.
Ann
WILLOW FORTIN
LOCAL 700 COLLEAGUE – LOS ANGELES
Congratulations on your well-deserved retirement, Cathy! As you close this remarkable chapter, I want to express my deepest gratitude for your unwavering leadership and vision over the years. Your guidance has had a lasting impact – inspiring growth, progress, and a sense of unity in our union and also within our office. Your passion and commitment have seemingly sparked a new tone within this industry, and I know your contributions will be felt for many years to come.
I feel lucky to have had the opportunity to work alongside you and witness your trajectory within my 10 years here. I’ve learned so much from you as your assistant, and I know I speak for many when I say that your influence will remain with us. Your wisdom, support, and your belief in each one of us have made a lasting impact. I will miss seeing you in the office, redlining your letters (seriously), and mostly, hearing your joyful laugh ring out from down the hall, but I am also excited for you to embark on this exciting new adventure in your life – hopefully involving loads of travel!!!
May your retirement be filled with joy, relaxation, and all the happiness you deserve. Thank you for everything you’ve done and for being such an incredible leader.
Willow
FRED ARTEAGA
LOCAL 700 COLLEAGUE – LOS ANGELES
Hi Cathy,
Wanted to start off by thanking you for all you’ve done for me. The opportunities you’ve given me. I know that without your blessing, I wouldn’t be in the position I’m in now! I’ve really enjoyed working for you and it’s been a privilege to have you as my boss!
I wish you and your family nothing but the best, happiness and sending you lots of love.
Enjoy your retirement,
Fred
NANCY RICHARDSON
LOCAL 700 BOARD MEMBER
Hello Cathy…
Sending you my sticker of my union sign….
I have been on the Board the entire time you have been our Business Agent, and I have admired and respected how you have handled so many different issues — conflicts, attacks, and personalities. I hope we will stay in touch in some way… If you ever need someone to talk to over coffee please think of me. I hope you have a happy, healthy, and restful time after leaving the Editors Guild….
Much love,
Nancy Richardson
ANITA BRANDT BURGOYNE
EDITOR
Hi Cathy!
It’s hard to imagine MPEG without Cathy Repola at the helm. You’ve been such a constant, steadying presence as the leader of the Editors Guild.
I know we will collectively miss your humor and calm demeanor and I personally will miss seeing your smiling face leading zoom town halls and listening to you patiently answering all our questions.
I wish you a long, joyful, adventure in retirement. Time to yourself is much deserved. Enjoy every minute.
Fond regards, Anita
MARY DECHAMBRES
EDITOR
Dear Cathy,
As I reflect on your incredible tenure as National Executive Director of the Motion Picture Editors Guild, I am filled with a profound sense of gratitude for your leadership, dedication, and unwavering commitment to our members.
Your impact on our Guild has been immeasurable. You have consistently championed the rights of all MPEG members, particularly those in the unscripted sector, a cause that is deeply meaningful to me and countless others. Your tireless efforts to improve working conditions, address industry challenges, and stand up to those who would exploit our members have created a lasting positive impact on our profession.
You have always spoken your truth with courage and conviction, even when it meant facing opposition. Your ability to rally the 13 locals under I.A.T.S.E. is a testament to your exceptional leadership and your unwavering belief in the power of collective action.
I deeply admire your strength, your resilience, and your unwavering dedication to our Guild. I am honored to have had the opportunity to work closely with you as a member of the Board of Directors and to learn from your wisdom and experience.
As you embark on this new chapter, please know that you will be deeply missed. I am committed to continuing your legacy of advocacy and ensuring that the Motion Picture Editors Guild remains a strong and vibrant force for good in our industry.
With sincere gratitude and admiration,
Mary DeChambres ACE
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