photos by Marcie Revens
On July 9, Directors, Associate Directors, Stage Managers and Production Associates actively working on morning television programs in New York joined their colleagues for an afternoon of conversation and camaraderie at the DGA’s East Coast Headquarters. Hosted by the Eastern Directors Council and the Eastern AD/SM/PA Council, Good Morning DGA: A Morning Show Mixer was a celebration of DGA members’ contributions to morning television.
“Even though I’m considered a sports guy, I’ve spent 25 years at ABC as a freelance AD — most recently at CBS Mornings as well with an incredible team led by Director Kelly Casse — much of that time working early mornings,” said Eastern AD/SM/PA Council Chair Tony DeSanti in his welcome to the audience. “Many of us have lived the early morning grind — balancing demanding schedules, home life, and the constant tug-of-war with sleep. That’s why traditional nighttime meetings often left us out. But not today. Today’s meet-and-greet isn’t just a chance to network. It’s a moment to gather strength from one another. Morning show crews are more than teams — we’re families away from family. And with contract negotiations ahead, we need your insight, your priorities and your lived experiences to guide us. You aren’t just showing up, you’re showing us where to go next.”
DeSanti then introduced DGA Sixth Vice President Lily Olszewski, who served as Chair of the Guild's Network Negotiating Committee in the last round of negotiations. Olszewski encouraged those in attendance to share issues they want to see addressed to during the next round of negotiations with the networks.”
After each attendee shared their name, category, and workplace, DGA Field Representative Meghan Brophy delivered a recap of the most recent round of Network Negotiations, illustrated by slides covering highlights from the last cycle.
DGA Associate Eastern Executive Director Michael Berger then covered the Network Negotiations, process and informed the gathering that while the 2026 Network Negotiating Committee members have been appointed by the DGA National Board, no dates with the Networks have been scheduled at this time.
The floor was then opened for the attendees to ask questions about the process and share their experiences and ideas for improving conditions in the morning show arena.
About the Eastern Directors Council:
The Eastern Directors Council is comprised of Directors elected to address issues related to the working circumstances of DGA Director-members in the Eastern region and Midwest.
About the Eastern AD/SM/PA Council:
The Eastern AD/SM/PA Council is the elected body that represents the Guild members who reside in the Eastern region and work in television as Associate Directors, Stage Managers or Production Associates.
