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| Sally Spaderna (Koerner Camera, Portland and Seattle), PERG Chair. |
A lot of organizations have been talking about a word lately—community. Community, what does that word really even mean? In this month’s issue of American Cinematographer, Shelly Johnson wrote a letter reflecting on how our very art form was built on the concept of joining together to collaborate– and how the ASC came into existence as a means of expanding on that art form and solving problems that arose within it. It made me think about how and why PERG was originally started. We came together because, at its core, this industry thrives on connections—connections between people, between companies, and between ideas. PERG has become more than just a collective of businesses. Over time, PERG has grown into a community—a community that is built on shared bonds, common goals, and, importantly, mutual support.
The landscape of our industry has shifted. We’ve seen a rise in new hurdles. But I’d also argue that we’ve never been more connected—at least when it comes to our shared experiences.
Before emails and texts took over, these meetings were one of the few opportunities for us to get together. The only times we could meet face-to-face, make meaningful connections, and discuss the most important decisions—what to invest in, what equipment was worth buying, how to collaborate with others. These gatherings were the breeding grounds for sub-rental relationships and a place where we could be open about our businesses’ needs. A member of ours once described sub-rentals as “a two-way street …without tariffs.” That’s exactly how we approached it then, and it’s still true now. It’s about mutual benefit, trust, and making smart decisions together.
What I’ve seen over my time is that, despite the evolution of technology and communication, that bond formed all those years ago has only deepened. The connection we share is stronger than ever, and it’s not just about the deals or the contracts or trying to figure out insurance. It’s about a collective understanding, a camaraderie that allows us to face tough times head-on. And let me tell you, we need that bond now more than ever.
This is the place where we can have candid conversations, where we can get advice, share solutions, and come together to weather the storm. The answers don’t always come on their own. The key to navigating this difficult period lies in our ability to rely on each other, in our collective wisdom, and in the guidance we can share with one another.
When I think about the bigger picture…about what’s at stake, it’s not just about the day-to-day operations of our businesses. You just heard Scott Taylor talk about an addendum to our Terms and Conditions. The topic of Crew Gear is a challenge that we all face, and it’s a tricky and contentious issue that's been at the top of the PERG Council’s agenda for a while now. This addendum is not a cure-all, and it’s not the only solution. But it’s a step in the right direction—a solution we can all get behind to help preserve what we still have left in the industry.
Beyond that, it’s about one thing that might sound simple but is incredibly powerful: not going it alone.
In this room, we’re not just competitors. We’re allies, partners, and collaborators. We have the power to create real change in this industry—together. And the conversations we have here at PERG help to guide us toward solutions that might seem out of reach when we’re working in isolation.
If we all agree that there is a problem, then we should stand united in making a change. Whether it’s our Terms and Conditions or how we approach discussions with studios, unions, and producers, we need to be on the same page. We must ask the question, “Can you imagine an industry without cinema equipment rental houses?”
If we can ask this as a group then I believe the answer will be a resounding “no.” Our collective voice is our greatest strength.
I’ll leave you with this: the beauty of being a part of PERG is that our competitors can become our business partners, our industry peers can become our customers, and a name on an email or caller ID can become a lifelong friend. The connection I feel with many of you runs deep. It’s an understanding, an unspoken partnership…with just a dash of rivalry—that’s what makes it so special.
I’m excited to see what MORE we can achieve as we continue to stand united, share our knowledge, and support one another... as a community.
Thank you.
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