American Federation of Musicians Locals 6 (Northern California) and 153 (San Jose-Santa Clara-Santa Cruz-Monterey) are planning to merge. The two boards of directors have already voted "to pursue merger." On Sept. 9, Local 6 membership will discuss the plan; voting is scheduled for October-November. Jan. 1, 2014, is the goal for the effective date of the merger, with membership and AFM International Executive Board approval.