3 32 70 http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/5c94f3f2faa28a13426244181749052d.pdf 734ec2862bc7753558856a6f583b2217 PDF Text Text SEPTEMBER 2020 VOLUME 82, NO. 9 O F F I C I A L P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E S E A F A R E R S I N T E R N AT I O N A L U N I O N AT L A N T I C , G U L F, L A K E S A N D I N L A N D W AT E R S , A F L- C I O Back to (New) Normal School Reopens, Membership Meetings Resume The global COVID-19 pandemic appears far from over, but Seafarers continue adapting to changes brought on by the crisis. With numerous precautions in place, the SIU in August resumed its monthly membership meetings (the first ones since March). Demonstrating their social-distancing prowess and face coverings at a few of the hiring halls are Seafarers in (photo above) Jacksonville, Florida; (below, right) Oakland, California; and (lower right) Mobile, Alabama. Piney Point, Maryland is the site of the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, which restarted classes the first week of August. Students are pictured that week in a classroom (immediately below) and a simulator (remaining photo). Page 3. Remembering John Lewis Page 4 SIU Election News Pages 6, 8 SHBP Awards Scholarships Page 7 �President’s Report Election Day Approaches I don’t have to tell you that Nov. 3 isn’t far off. Make sure you’re registered to vote, and, especially in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, you may want to consider absentee balloting this time around. Of course, many of our members utilize absentee or early voting because they’re at sea on Election Day, so this is nothing new to us. It’s easy to find useful information online, but feel free to contact your port agent if you need assistance. For anyone who’s new to the SIU, you should know that we support candidates – at all levels of government – who support maritime and who support workers’ rights, regardless of political party. Republican, Democrat, Independent – none of that matters to the SIU. What matters is that candidates commit to backing the U.S. Merchant Marine, and then follow through once in office. As we enter the teeth of election season, stay informed – and remain civil with each other. You can disagree with someone about an issue, but remember that we’re in this together and we all want what’s best for this great nation. Support From ‘Last Frontier’ Speaking of the consequences of elections, the United States maritime industry has enjoyed a long history of solid support from Alaska’s members of Congress, and that tradition is alive and well today. The Jones Act fleet is Alaska’s interstate highway. It’s what connects the 49th State with the mainland of the United States. And much like the freeway system and waterways we use in the lower 48, our American-flag ships and U.S. crews deliver the goods that Alaska needs while bringing some of the state’s natural resources to the mainland. Seafarers undoubtedly know about Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R) and U.S. Rep. Don Young (R), both of whom have long track records backing the U.S. Merchant Marine. Murkowski’s father, the late Frank Murkowski, served Alaska as a governor and U.S. Senator, and also was a friend of the industry. Sen. Dan Sullivan (R) isn’t exactly a newcomer, having been in office since 2015, but he is the newest member of the Alaska delegation. Sen. Sullivan is very much carrying on the tradition of great maritime support from Alaska, in the same spirit as the late Sen. Ted Stevens (R), one of the union’s all-time friends. That is why the SIU, along with three other maritime unions (AMO, MM&P and MEBA), recently endorsed his re-election. In our joint letter, we noted Sullivan’s “strong, consistent support for America’s maritime industry and your vigorous and persistent efforts in behalf of America’s maritime workforce. Your work in Congress to achieve a fully funded Maritime Security Program; to ensure full enforcement of America’s U.S.-flag cargo preference shipping requirements; and to preserve our nation’s coastwise shipping laws have helped ensure that our nation has the U.S.-flag commercial sealift readiness capability and the American mariners needed by the Department of Defense to support American troops and America’s interests overseas.” We further wrote: “You have been a leader in Congress working to increase the number of commercial vessels operating under the U.S.-flag and to increase the shipboard employment opportunities for American mariners. Absent such action, we as a nation will not only experience the continued outsourcing of American maritime jobs to the benefit of foreign maritime personnel but will also be forced to entrust a greater portion of the requisite commercial sealift readiness capability needed by the Department of Defense, along with the safety and supply of American troops, to foreign flag-of-convenience vessels and their foreign citizen crews. Without your continued efforts, our country will not have the necessary commercial U.S.-flag sealift capability it needs and American troops deployed overseas would be dangerously dependent on foreign vessels and foreign crews to bring them the supplies, equipment and materiel they need to do their job on behalf of the American people.” Sullivan has demonstrated a clear and unwavering commitment to the American maritime industry and the American maritime worker. O F F I C I A L P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E S E A F A R E R S I N T E R N AT I O N A L U N I O N AT L A N T I C , G U L F, L A K E S A N D I N L A N D W AT E R S , A F L- C I O Volume 82 Number 9 Maritime Administrator Mark Buzby (left) and Navy League VP Jonathan Kaskin advocate for the U.S. Merchant Marine during a recent online conference. Officials from Navy League, MARAD Call for Additional U.S.-Flag Tonnage Weighing the potential long-range effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on U.S. security, two maritime experts said the country desperately needs to bolster its commercial fleet and the corresponding manpower pool. U.S. Maritime Administrator Mark Buzby and Navy League of the United States National Vice President for Legislative Affairs Jonathan Kaskin both emphasized those goals during a mid-July online event named “NatSec 2020: Coronavirus and Beyond,” cosponsored by the Navy League, the Association of the United States Army, and Government Matters (a multi-platform news program). The sessions examined “the long-term impact of the pandemic on the business of government in the national security community.” Kaskin said the U.S. especially needs greater sealift capacity and additional tankers in an era of “great power competition,” especially for a potential conflict in the Pacific. The former Navy logistics officer A prominent legislator from “The Last Frontier” recently received a major maritime honor. The Shipbuilders Council of America (SCA), the national association representing the U.S. shipyard industry, honored U.S. Sen. Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska) with the SCA Maritime Leadership Award on June 30. The award is given annually “to national leaders who demonstrate exemplary dedication and support of the U.S. shipbuilding and repair industry,” according to the council. Sullivan took office in 2015. Among other assignments, he currently serves on the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee; and the Senate Armed The SIU online: www.seafarers.org The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 1086-4636) is published monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters, AFL-CIO; 5201 Capital Gateway Drive; Camp Springs, MD 20746. Telephone (301) 899-0675. Periodicals postage paid at Southern Maryland 20790-9998. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Capital Gateway Drive, Camp Springs, Maryland 20746. Communications Director, Jordan Biscardo; Assistant Communications Director, Managing Editor/ Production, Jim Guthrie; Assistant Editor, Nick Merrill; Photographer, Harry Gieske; Administrative Support, Jenny Stokes; Content Curator, Mark Clements. Copyright © 2020 Seafarers International Union, AGLIW. All Rights Reserved. The Seafarers International Union engaged an environmentally friendly printer for the production of this newspaper. 2 Seafarers LOG benefit from an increase in commercial vessels rather than reserve-status ships (since the vessels themselves would have greater readiness and in turn would facilitate larger numbers of trained crews). Kaskin advocated expansion of the U.S. Maritime Security Program and also supported an administration proposal to create a similar structure for tankers. He said only a half-dozen American-flag internationally-trading tankers are available for use by the military, and three of those are already leased by the Navy for current operations. “The requirement that U.S. Transportation Command has shown – and earlier studies have shown – is that we need more than 78 tankers,” he said. “Adding 10 is not going to be sufficient. So, what we really need to do is find ways of utilizing the tankers that we have in the domestic fleet – the Jones Act [ships] – to be able to support wartime operations.” Shipbuilders Council Honors Sen. Sullivan September 2020 Reversed to White Reversed to White stated, “We in the Navy League would like to advocate for a much larger U.S. Merchant Marine in order to support the tenets of the Merchant Marine Act of 1936, which says that we should have a [merchant] fleet large enough to support not only our domestic trade but a portion of our international trade to be able to maintain our commerce at all time in peace and war. I don’t think we have adequate capability in both areas right now.” He added that the “fleet itself just needs to grow.” Buzby, former commander of the Navy’s Military Sealift Command, agreed. “We need more ships,” he said, adding that a strong case may be made for adding upwards of 50 more vessels. The maritime administrator also called attention to a shortage of civilian mariners that threatens the nation’s ability to successfully executive a sustained sealift operation. Partly with that in mind, he said the country would U.S. Sen. Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska) Services Committee. “Throughout his entire career, Sen. Sullivan has long recognized the critical role shipping, shipbuilding and repair have across the entire U.S. economy and especially in his home state of Alaska. His experienced voice has championed and advanced our industry, the backbone of economic and national security, in unprecedented ways. The more than 650,000 men and women of the domestic maritime industry honor him today for his service, commitment and unwavering leadership,” said Matthew Paxton, president of the SCA. Sullivan has been a maritime champion from his first days in office. Additionally, earlier this year he joined with six other Republican senators in formally urging President Trump to fully support the Jones Act. In a letter to Trump, those senators wrote in part, “Unfortunately, opponents of the Jones Act have used the COVID-19 crisis as an opportunity to attempt to undermine existing law. There is absolutely no connection between the Jones Act and COVID-19. In fact, the law has helped produce the types of vessels and qualified mariners necessary to support a variety of crisis response operations. If anything, the Administration and Congress should look for ways to strengthen the Jones Act.” During the recent markup for the Fiscal Year 2021 National Defense Authorization Act, Sullivan helped secure language authorizing $21.3 billion for the construction of new U.S. Navy submarines, amphibious ships, destroyers, and other vessels. Last year, he authored and led the two-year reauthorization of the U.S. Coast Guard. “I want to thank SCA President Matthew Paxton, the SCA board and all of SCA’s members for this prestigious honor and for your work advocating on behalf of a robust shipyard industrial base,” said Sullivan. “From authorizing the first new icebreakers in a generation, $21 billion this coming fiscal year in defense shipbuilding, and the intent to reach a 355-ship Navy, we are renewing America’s command of the high seas, and the men and women of our shipbuilding sector will be crucial to bringing that goal to fruition. I’m glad to be a part of this collaborative effort that strengthens our national security, supports a stronger economy and thousands of jobs, including many in the great maritime state of Alaska.” Sullivan was presented the Maritime Champion Award virtually during the SCA annual meeting in Washington, D.C. SCA members constitute the shipyard industrial base that builds, repairs, maintains and modernizes U.S. Navy ships and craft, U.S. Coast Guard vessels of all sizes, as well as vessels for other U.S. government agencies. In addition, SCA members build, repair and service America’s fleet of commercial vessels. The Council represents 40 companies that own and operate more than 82 shipyards, with facilities on all three U.S. coasts, the Great Lakes, the inland waterways system, Alaska and Hawaii. The SCA also represents 87 partner members that provide goods and services to the shipyard industry. September 2020 �COVID-19 PANDEMIC The Paul Hall Center reopened for classes in early August and also hosted a membership meeting. Union Meetings Resume, School Reopens Coronavirus Claims Life of SIU Member Vaughan Editor’s note: SIU members are encouraged to regularly check the union’s website for the latest union-specific news about the pandemic. There is a prominent COVID-19 section on the home page. Members also may sign up for text alerts by texting the word “join” (without the quotation marks) to 97779. The SIU and its affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland, recently reached some milestones for 2020 – occasions that wouldn’t warrant much mention in non-pandemic times but which now signal progress. The union in August resumed its monthly membership meetings, underscored by numerous safety precautions at the hiring halls. Because of the COVID-19 global pandemic, meetings hadn’t been conducted since March. Similarly, the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education (PHC) resumed classes the first week of August, following a summer hiatus (see pages 18-19). Extensive safety measures are in place at the school, and the first couple of weeks after reopening have proven encouraging. While those developments offered a boost to many attendees and a partial return to some normalcy, the coronavirus remains a worldwide crisis. By mid-August, there were upwards of 22 million cases worldwide, including more than 5.4 million in the United States. The virus had claimed nearly 775,000 lives around the world, including almost 170,000 in the U.S. Virus Claims Union Member One of those victims was GUDE Michael Vaughan, 63, who died July 28 after being stricken with COVID19. He had sailed with SIU since 2012, most recently aboard a Maersk vessel, and is believed to be the first active Seafarer to perish from the virus. In a message to SIU crews throughout the Maersk fleet, SIU President Michael Sacco wrote, “On behalf of the union’s executive board, I extend our deepest and most sincere sympathies to the family, friends and shipmates of our fallen brother, GUDE Michael Vaughan. Many of you have heard me say over the years that I think of our organization as a family. In that spirit, this is a particularly difficult time for all concerned…. We all need to remain extremely vigilant and cautious as the scourge of COVID-19 continues. That is one way we can honor Michael Vaughan’s memory.” Meanwhile, Sacco in late July joined with MM&P President Don Marcus and MEBA President Marshall Ainley in sending a letter to the commanding officer of the U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC), Rear Adm. Michael Wettlaufer. The presidents voiced strong concerns about the agency’s months-long “gangways up” order on vessels crewed by federally employed CIVMARS (including members of the SIU Government Services Division), along with the July 22 suicide of Third Officer Jonathon J. Morris, 34, aboard the USNS Amelia Earhart. That letter reads in part, “We are writing to you today to communicate our ongoing and increasingly grave concerns regarding the mental health and well-being of MSC’s CIVMARs. Many of the CIVMARS are members of our respective Unions and they share their thoughts and concerns with us on a regular basis. There is growing anger, frustration and despair throughout the fleet. People have a breaking point and many of these crewmembers are nearing it. “The recent tragedy aboard the USNS Amelia Earhart speaks for itself,” the letter continues. “The actual cause of this mariner’s actions may never be known, however, the ongoing and selective ‘Gangways Up’ restrictions may have, in some part, contributed to this unnecessary and senseless act. We are genuinely worried that if restrictions are not eased, the likelihood of shipboard emotional instability will increase. Further, the stress-related fatigue caused by the ‘Gangways Up’ restrictions could lead to safety and mission degradation and operational mishaps. “Couple the disparate nature of the Gangways-Up policy with the continuing crisis of overdue reliefs and you have potentially worse disasters waiting to happen on MSC vessels all over the world,” the union presidents added. “Waiting in-excess of 90 days for relief in some cases is contributing to the escalating anxiety and tensions aboard ships. The current situation is taking a terrible toll on the families of these GUDE Michael Vaughan is believed to be the first active SIU member to perish as a result of COVID-19. mariners as well. The CIVMARS feel unsupported and abandoned.” The correspondence concluded with a request for “your direct intervention and assistance.” Precautions, Adjustments In an effort to promote safety at the hiring halls and at the PHC, many safeguards are in place. These include reconfiguring meeting areas, classrooms and dining facilities to promote distancing. Clear plastic dividers have been installed, along with hand-sanitizing stations. Floor markings are in place to make it easy to identify six-foot distances. Meal times at the school are being staggered, and face coverings are required at the PHC and at the halls. Another adjustment took place prior to when the Able Seafarer-Deck class resumed in Piney Point. Students completed two weeks of authorized course- Continued on Page 16 Note to Our Readers While maintaining distance, members listen to reports during the monthly meeting in New Orleans. September 2020 Without exception, anyone entering an SIU hiring hall or signing onto a vessel has passed a number of safety protocols, often including testing for COVID-19, two-week quarantines, and verifying health-related items on a questionnaire. For that reason, not everyone you see pictured in the LOG is wearing a mask. In addition, in many cases, people have briefly removed their masks only long enough to snap a quick photo. We cannot stress enough the importance of following all safety protocols for your protection and the protection of those around you. Seafarers LOG 3 �In photo at right, the late U.S. Rep. John Lewis (D-Georgia) addresses attendees May 14, 2019 during the keel laying for his namesake ship, USNS John Lewis, Military Sealift Command’s newest fleet replenishment oiler, during ceremony at the General Dynamics NASSCO Shipyard in San Diego. (Military Sealift Command photo) A General Dynamics National Steel and Shipbuilding Company rendering of the vessel is pictured above. Workers’ Rights, U.S. Maritime Champion U.S. Rep. John Lewis Passes Away at 80 U.S. Rep. John Lewis (D-Georgia), an acclaimed civil rights leader/activist and a champion of the U.S. Maritime industry, died July 17 at age 80. The son of sharecroppers and an apostle of nonviolence, the late congressman on Dec. 29, 2019 announced that he had Stage 4 Pancreatic Cancer and vowed to fight it with the same passion with which he had battled racial injustice. “I have been in some kind of fight – for freedom, equality, basic human rights – for nearly my entire life,” he said. SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez, during the union’s August membership meeting at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Maryland, reminded the audience that in addition to being a stalwart for workers’ rights, Lewis also consistently backed the U.S. Merchant Marine. “He was a man with a capital ‘m’ and he was in our corner from day one,” Tellez stated. Bolstering Tellez’s sentiments re- garding Lewis’ contributions to the U.S. Maritime industry was SIU Senior Political Consultant Terry Turner. “He (Congressman Lewis) was a 100% pro-vote on all Maritime Security Program, Jones Act, and Cargo Preference legislation that we tracked over the last 20 years,” Turner said. “Going forward, his leadership and support for maritime issues will be greatly missed.” The late congressman’s backing of U.S. Maritime and advocacy for human rights did not go unnoticed in America’s civilian community nor in U.S. government circles including the Department of Defense. Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus, during a January 6, 2016 ship-naming ceremony at the Cannon House Office Building in Washington, D.C., announced that the first ship of the next generation of fleet replenishment oilers (T-AO 205) would be named the USNS John Lewis after the civil rights movement hero. “As the first of its class, the future USNS John Lewis will play a vital role in the mission of our Navy and Marine Corps while also forging a new path in fleet replenishment,” said Mabus at the event. “Naming this ship after John Lewis is a fitting tribute to a man who has, from his youth, been at the forefront of progressive social and human rights movements in the U.S., directly shaping both the past and future of our nation.” The new vessel, one of six new T-AO 205 fleet oilers for the U.S. Navy, is being built by the General Dynamics National Steel and Shipbuilding Company in San Diego, California. Construction commenced in 2018; the vessel is expected to be delivered later this year. The future USNS John Lewis will be operated by the U.S. Military Sealift Command and provide underway replenishment of fuel and stores to U.S. Navy ships at sea and jet fuel for aircraft assigned to aircraft carriers. Its crew will include CIVMARS from the SIU Government Services Division. “T-AO 205 will, for decades to come, serve as a visible symbol of the freedoms Representative Lewis holds dear, and his example will live on in the steel of that ship and in all those who will serve aboard her,” said Mabus. The late congressman’s involvement in the civil rights movement started while he was still a young man, when he organized sit-in demonstrations at segregated lunch counters in Nashville, Tennessee. In 1961, he participated in the “Freedom Rides,” challenging segregation at interstate bus terminals across the South. In 1963, Lewis was named chairman of the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee where he was responsible for organizing student activism challenging segregation. Congressman Lewis was also a keynote speaker at the historic March on Washington in 1963. He nearly lost his life more than 50 years ago on “Bloody Sunday” (March 7, 1965) when he was beaten by police on the Edmund Pettus Bridge while attempting to lead more than 600 peaceful voting rights protestors in Selma, Alabama. SIU Jobs Stay Secure Aboard Empire State Seafarers will continue sailing aboard the Jones Act-qualified tanker Empire State following a recent contract award by the U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC). The agency in late July announced that American Petroleum Tankers has secured a new agreement consisting of “one 12-month firm period, three one-year options and one 11-month option period…. Work will be performed worldwide, and is expected to be completed by July 2025.” SIU members have been part of the Empire State crew since the ship began sailing in summer 2010. It’s a union-built vessel, constructed at General Dynamics NASSCO in San Diego. The ship, which transports petroleum products for the Department of Defense, is 600 feet long, has a beam of 105 feet and can sail at 14.5 knots. 4 Seafarers LOG File photo of SIU-crewed Empire State September 2020 �Comprehensive Jones Act Study Finds No Effect on Cost of Living in Hawaii Report Also Reveals Ocean Freight Rates Declined Since 2008 Economists from Boston-based Reeve & Associates (Reeve) and Hawaii-based TZ Economics have released a joint report, “The Impact of the Jones Act on Hawaii,” that concluded the Jones Act has no significant impact on the cost of living in Hawaii. In addition, the report found that freight rates in the U.S. Mainland-Hawaii trade lane have declined in real terms over the last 10 years, while the Jones Act has delivered positive and substantial economic contributions, including job creation, new infrastructure investments, and a reliable pipeline for critical consumer and industrial goods moving to and from the Islands. In this comprehensive report, the authors analyzed the economic impact of the Jones Act – a critical economic and national security law that ensures goods transported from U.S. point to U.S. point be carried on vessels that are American crewed, built, and owned – and conducted a thorough market-based study to consider the impact of the law to the cost of goods. Moreover, the report analyzed the impact on consumers by evaluating the competitiveness of freight rates in the United States/Hawaii market, the quality of service provided by the Jones Act carriers, and the impact of the carriers’ freight rates, relative to the prices of goods shipped between the U.S. Mainland and Hawaii. “There has been a lot of contention regarding whether the Jones Act negatively affects Hawaii’s cost of living,” said John Reeve, the principal in Reeve & Associates and the lead economist on the study. “The findings of our study indicate that the Jones Act has no appreciable impact on Hawaii’s cost of living, and that Jones Act carriers provide immense benefits to consumers and business owners, while delivering reliable, high frequency and fast transit services at healthy and competitive rates.” “Our findings based on various indicators show that higher living costs – partly the premium assigned to the desirabil- ity of living in Hawaii – reflect housing costs, not the cost of consumer products relative to the U.S. Mainland,” said Paul Brewbaker, the principal of TZ Economics. “The findings of this exhaustive study regarding the economic impact of Jones Act-related transportation costs in Hawaii are clear – the Jones Act does not drive up the cost of living in Hawaii. American shipping companies operating under the Jones Act provide an efficient and reliable pipeline for consumer and industrial goods moving to and from the Islands,” said Mike Roberts, president of the American Maritime Partnership (to which the SIU is affiliated). “Waiving the Jones Act would replace American mariners and ships with foreign ships and mariners, threaten Hawaii’s supply chain, and degrade Hawaii’s and our nation’s security – yet produce no cost of living benefit to Hawaii residents.” This report is a follow-on in a series of studies being conducted by Reeve and Associates and its partners analyzing the comparative cost of goods in non-contiguous territories of the United States and the U.S. Mainland, and the impact, if any, of the Jones Act. In summary, the findings include: The Jones Act does not impact the cost of living in Hawaii. n A study of 200 consumer goods purchased from major retailers such as Costco, Home Depot, Target and Walmart found no significant difference in the price. Some 142 out of 200 items (71%) were precisely the same in stores in Hawaii as they were in California. In some cases, retail prices of goods were cheaper in Hawaii. The study found that while Hawaii does have a high cost of living, that cost is primarily driven by housing expenses and other factors, not the type of consumer goods carried to Hawaii by Jones Act carriers. Over a 10-year period, Jones Act carriers’ ‘Any Attack on Jones Act Is An Attack on The People of Hawaii’ SIU President Michael Sacco was among those forcefully speaking in favor of the Jones Act following recent attempts to undermine the crucial law. “At their core, there is nothing new about recent, erroneous attacks against America’s freight cabotage law, commonly known as the Jones Act,” Sacco stated in a web post on Aug. 6. “This century-old law has endured because it always has been – and still remains today – vital to United States national, economic and homeland security. “Jones Act opponents typically resort to the same old, worn-out, losing playbook when they go after this critical maritime law,” he continued. “That’s been the case again lately, first with the posting of an easily and quickly debunked study about the law’s alleged impact on Hawaii, and then with attempts to chip away at components of the Jones Act.” The union president said that from his view, “any attack on the Jones Act is a direct attack on the people of Hawaii and on the U.S. as a whole. This September 2020 law helps support more than 653,000 American jobs while protecting the security of our rivers and waterways…. There are many good reasons why 91 countries around the world maintain some form of cabotage law. There are many good reasons why the Jones Act has been American policy for a century. There are many good reasons why the Jones Act consistently enjoys strong bipartisan support from Congress and the White House and solid backing from our top military leaders.” Sacco concluded, “Without the Jones Act, the American-flag merchant fleet would be wiped out, as would the pool of U.S. citizen mariners who crew our commercial and military-support vessels. In turn, our country would face monumental security risks as foreignflag vessels and boats and foreign crews had free reign on our rivers, waterways and coastlines. The Jones Act was exceptionally sound policy when it was enacted in June 1920. Today, it’s arguably more important than ever, and I’m proud to support it.” rates have declined in real terms for essential ocean shipping. n The study shows that freight rates in the Mainland-Hawaii trade have declined in real terms when considering the cost of inflation, while benchmarks such as overall U.S. inflation and intercity truckload prices have increased substantially (28%). This freight rate decline is despite a 50% increase in wharfage charges for port/terminal improvements. The large majority of the expenses of moving cargo between the U.S. Mainland and Hawaii are completely unaffected by the Jones Act. If foreign-flag carriers were allowed to operate in the domestic trades, the costs of any foreign-flag vessel would rise substantially due to required compliance with other U.S. laws, including tax and labor laws. n The study found that only a third of the total costs of a Jones Act carrier moving freight between the Mainland and Hawaii are affected by the Jones Act (crew and vessel capital costs). If the Jones Act was to be waived for Hawaii, the costs of any foreign-flag vessel operated in that U.S. domestic trade would rise substantially as it would have to comply with U.S. tax, labor, and employee protection laws apart from the Jones Act that would virtually negate any cost advantage provided by foreign registry. Jones Act carriers are dedicated to Hawaii’s specific needs for high frequency and fast transit to deliver consumer goods to the Hawaiian Islands. Eliminating the Jones Act could undermine priority, frequency, and speed. n Three U.S.-flagged carriers with a fleet of 20 combined vessels, specifically designed to accommodate the needs of Hawaii transportation commerce, currently provide regular scheduled shipping services between the U.S. Mainland and Hawaii. Due to intense and healthy competition, freight rates have declined in real terms while carriers have increased capacity with modern, custom-designed vessels. Jones Act carriers have introduced five new U.S. vessels, as well as three more on the way in the fourth quarter of 2020. According to the study, with these most recent additions, there is more than ample capacity to meet the needs of Hawaii families and businesses. In fact, Jones Act carriers have increased capacity by 22% since 2015 with the addition of new vessels. The level of available capacity in the market naturally drives healthy price competition. American shipping companies are invested in Hawaii, providing more than $2 billion in transportation technology customized for the Hawaii market, such as new ships, terminals, and equipment. n These new vessels are highly fuelefficient, environmentally friendly and contribute to reduced sulfur emissions. Hawaii residents also benefit from improvements to terminals, including the addition of new infrastructure such as gantry cranes. Jones Act carriers play a critical role in support of U.S. national security, while meeting the needs of military personnel and their families who comprise nearly 10% of Hawaii’s population. n Jones Act carriers provide a reserve force of well-trained seafarers who in times of national emergency can crew reserve sealift vessels, while ensuring the U.S. does not need to rely on foreign carriers to move people and military assets. Around 9.6% of Hawaii’s population is U.S. military personnel and their families. Jones Act carriers ship a high proportion of personal effects (vehicles and household goods) that are needed for those families. The Jones Act industry supports 13,000 jobs for Hawaii families. n The Jones Act delivers $787 million in annual workforce income and $3.3 billion economic impact to the local economy. Port Council Strongly Defends Vital American Maritime Law The Maritime Trades Department (MTD) recently helped set the record straight concerning a vital maritime law. A constitutional department of the AFL-CIO, the MTD on Aug. 6 posted a statement saying it “joins with the Hawaii Ports Maritime Council (PMC) to counter the misleading report issued by U.S. Sen. Mike Lee (R-Utah) and U.S. Rep. Ed Case (D-Hawaii) dismissing the value and benefits of the Jones Act to the citizens and businesses of the Aloha State. “This is just another attempt to mislead and misinform the people of our state on the importance of the Jones Act,” stated PMC President Randy Swindell. “This was yet another rehashing of mistruths whose only purpose is to confuse.” “We know what the Jones Act means – good jobs as well as economic and national security for Hawaii and the United States,” added PMC Executive Secretary-Treasurer Hazel Galbiso, who is the SIU port agent in Honolulu. The report, released in July, attempted to explain why Hawaii would be better off being served by foreign- crewed, foreign-owned commercial vessels rather than the dedicated fleet of 20 U.S-flagged, U.S.-owned, U.S.-built and U.S.-crewed ships that provide regularly scheduled service to the islands. The Jones Act is America’s cabotage law, which means cargo moved from one U.S. port to another U.S. port must be carried aboard ships that follow the nation’s labor and safety standards. The Jones Act celebrated its 100th anniversary in June. It constantly comes under attack from foreign-flag interests hiding behind the sails of “economic savings” while ignoring what eliminating the law would cost American workers and interests. “The Jones Act provides job creation and economic opportunities for the people of Hawaii,” stated MTD President Michael Sacco, who also is president of the SIU. “In these stressful and trying times, why would anyone want to eliminate good-paying American jobs?” The Jones Act is responsible for approximately 13,000 jobs in Hawaii, providing $787 million in annual workforce income and a $3.3 billion economic impact. Seafarers LOG 5 �Credentials Approved for Candidates to 25 Union Offices REPORT OF CREDENTIALS COMMIT TEE ON CANDIDATES FOR 2020 ELECTION OF OFFICERS FOR TERM 2021-2024 SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION OF NORTH AMERICA-ATL ANTIC, GULF, L AKES AND INL AND WATERS We, the undersigned members of the Credentials Committee, were duly elected at a Special Meeting held at HeadquartersPort of Piney Point on August 14, 2020. We have examined the credentials of candidates for elective office or job in the Seafarers International Union of North America-Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters for the years 2021-2024, in accordance with Article XI, Section 1, and submit the following report. Your Committee qualified or disqualified those members who submitted for office based upon the Union Constitution, particularly those provisions contained in Articles XII and XIII. The applicable constitutional provisions are as follows: ARTICLE XII Qualifications for Of ficers, Assistant VicePresidents, Port Agents, and Other Elective Jobs Section 1. Any member of the Union is eligible to be a candidate for, and hold, any office or the job of Assistant Vice-President, or Port Agent provided: (a) He has at least three (3) years of seatime in an unlicensed capacity aboard an American-flag merchant vessel or vessels. In computing time, time spent in the employ of the Union, its subsidiaries and its affiliates, or in any employment at the Union’s direction, shall count the same as seatime. Union records, Welfare Plan records and/or company records can be used to determine eligibility; and (b) He has been a full book member in continuous good standing in the Union for at least three (3) years immediately prior to his nomination; and (c) He has at least one hundred (100) days of seatime, in an unlicensed capacity, aboard an American-flag vessel or vessels covered by contract with this Union or one hundred (100) days of employment with, or in any office or job of, the Union, its subsidiaries and its affiliates, or in any employment at the Union’s direction or a combination of these, between January 1 and the time of nomination in the election year, except if such seatime is wholly aboard such merchant vessels operating solely upon the Great Lakes or, if such seatime is wholly aboard tugboats, towboats or dredges and contractual employment thereon is for fixed days with equal amount of days off, he shall have at least sixty-five (65) days of such seatime instead of the foregoing one hundred (100) days; and (d) He is a citizen of the United States of America; and (e) He is not disqualified by law. He is not receiving a pension from this Union’s Pension Fund, if any, or from a UnionManagement Fund, to which Fund this Union is a party or from a company under contract with this Union; unless such individual commenced receiving a pension benefit from any such fund by virtue of having reached the age of 70½. (f) He has not sailed in a licensed capacity aboard an American flag merchant vessel or vessels within twenty-four (24) consecutive months immediately prior to the opening of nominations. Section 2. All candidates for, and holders of, other elective jobs not specified in the preceding sections shall be full book members of the Union. Section 3. All candidates for, and holders of, elective offices and jobs, whether elected or appointed in accordance with this Constitution, shall maintain full book memberships in good standing. ARTICLE XIII Election for Of ficers, Assistant Vice-Presidents, and Port Agents Section 1. Nominations. Except as provided in Section 2(b) of this Article, any full book member may submit his name for nomination for any office, or the job of Assistant Vice-President, or Port Agent, by delivering or causing to be delivered in person, to the office of the Secretary-Treasurer at Headquarters, or sending a letter addressed to the Credentials Committee, in care of the SecretaryTreasurer at the address of Headquarters. This letter shall be dated and shall contain the following: (a) The name of the candidate. (b) His home address and mailing address. (c) His book number. 6 Seafarers LOG (d) The title of the office or other job for which he is a candidate, including the name of the Port in the event the position sought is that of Port Agent. (e) Proof of citizenship. (f) Proof of seatime and/or employment as required for candidates. (g) In the event the member is on a vessel, he shall notify the Credentials Committee what vessel he is on. This shall be done also if he ships subsequent to forwarding his credentials. (h) Annexing a certificate in the following form, signed and dated by the proposed nominee: I HEREBY CERTIFY that during the past thirteen (13) years I have not been convicted of, or served any part of a prison term resulting from a conviction for robbery, bribery, extortion, embezzlement, grand larceny, burglary, arson, violation of narcotics laws, murder, rape, assault with intent to kill, assault which inflicts grievous bodily injury, or violation of Title II or III of the Landrum Griffin Act, or conspiracy to commit such crimes. In addition, I certify that I support the Constitution of the United States of America, its institutions and form of government.” Dated Signature of Member Book No._________ Printed forms of the certificate shall be made available to nominees. Where a nominee cannot truthfully execute such a certificate, but is, in fact, legally eligible for an office or job by reason of the restoration of civil rights originally revoked by such conviction or a favorable determination by the Board of Parole of the United States Department of Justice, he shall, in lieu of the foregoing certificate, furnish a complete signed statement of the facts of his case together with true copies of the documents supporting his statement. Any full book member may nominate any other full book member in which event such full book member so nominated shall comply with the provisions of this Article as they are set forth herein relating to the submission of credentials. By reason of the above self nomination provision the responsibility, if any, for notifying a nominee of his nomination to office shall be that of the nominator. All documents required herein must reach Headquarters no earlier than July 15 and no later than August 15 of the election year. The Secretary-Treasurer is charged with safekeeping of these letters and shall turn them over to the Credentials Committee upon the latter’s request. In order to ascertain the meaning of the term “member in good standing” which is used in Article XII, Subsection 1(b), the Committee referred to Article XXIV, Section 9 of our Constitution which reads as follows: Section 9. The term “member in good standing” shall mean a member whose monetary obligations to the Union are not in arrears for thirty (30) days or more, or who is not under suspension or expulsion effective in accordance with this Constitution. Unless otherwise expressly indicated, the term “member” shall mean a member in good standing. Your Committee sought guidance from the Union’s General Counsel through the Secretary-Treasurer as to whether this section would apply to a member who is unable to pay dues because of employment aboard an American flag merchant vessel as stated in Article III, Section 3(e). Your Committee was advised that, in keeping with past practice and constitutional interpretation, the same thirty (30) day grace period should be applied in these situations. Accordingly, when a member who is working on foreign articles leaves the vessel, the dues for the applicable quarter must be paid within thirty (30) days from the date of discharge in order to maintain good standing. Your committee was also advised that the Union’s executive board, due to the existence of the COVID 19 pandemic which made it difficult earlier this year for some people to secure employment and for others to end employment aboard a vessel due to limited crew change options, eased this requirement somewhat to allow members who were otherwise eligible to run for office to be able to maintain their continuous good standing. Your committee noted that all relevant information concerning this executive board action was widely disseminated to the membership and your committee fully approves of their actions. Your Committee also referred to Article XXIV, Section 13 for the definition of the term “seatime”. This section reads as follows: Section 13. The term “seatime” shall include employment upon any navigable waters, days of employment in a contracted employer unit represented by the Union or time spent in the employ of the Union or one of the Union’s direct affiliates as an elected or appointed representative. We also noted in Article XXIV, Section 14, the meaning of the term “in an unlicensed capacity aboard an American-flag merchant vessel or vessels.” This portion of the Constitution reads as follows: Section 14. The term “in an unlicensed capacity aboard an American-flag merchant vessel or vessels” shall include persons employed in an unlicensed or licensed capacity aboard dredges, tugboats, towboats and similar vessels used to tow, propel, or push barges or other conveyances or assist merchant vessels in docking or undocking, or persons otherwise employed in a contracted employer unit represented by the Union. After full and careful deliberations, the Committee made its decisions and sent appropriate notification to candidates. The ultimate decisions of this Committee are later set forth. In arriving at these ultimate decisions, the Committee was most concerned with carrying out a stated principle of our Union which is that “every qualified member shall have the right to nominate himself for, and, if elected or appointed, to hold office in this Union.” In connection with the foregoing, we have also consulted with the SecretaryTreasurer who, under our Constitution, has the obligation to ensure appropriate election procedures as legally required (Article XIII, Section 7). Our Secretary-Treasurer has further consulted with the Union’s Counsel as to the law applicable in Union nominations and elections. The following is a complete listing of all members who submitted their credentials to the Committee. Their names and the office or job for which they submitted such credentials are listed in the order in which this Committee feels they should be placed on the general ballot, that is, in alphabetical order under the office or job for which they run, and that the Ports, following the Headquarters offices, beginning with Piney Point, be arranged on the ballot geographically, as has been done in the past. After each member’s name and book number is his/her qualification or disqualification, followed by the reason for that decision. CHARGE OF CONTRACTS AND CONTRACT ENFORCEMENT Patrick A. Vandegrift, V-488 Qualified Credentials in order ASSISTANT VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF THE ATL ANTIC COAST Nicholas A. Celona, C-1578 Qualified Credentials in order ASSISTANT VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF THE GULF COAST Kris A. Hopkins, H-1658 Qualified Credentials in order ASSISTANT VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF THE WEST COAST Bryan D. Powell, P-1987 Qualified Credentials in order ASSISTANT VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF THE SOUTHERN REGION, GREAT L AKES AND INL AND WATERS Michael Russo, R-5772 Qualified Credentials in order ASSISTANT VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF GOVERNMENT SERV ICES AND FISHING INDUSTRIES Joe Vincenzo, V-518 Qualified Credentials in order PINEY POINT PORT AGENT Mark von Siegel, V-612 Qualified Credentials in order NEW JERSEY PORT AGENT Raymond Henderson, H-1907 Qualified Credentials in order PHIL ADELPHIA PORT AGENT Joseph T. Baselice, B-2795 Qualified Credentials in order BALTIMORE PORT AGENT John Paul Hoskins, H-1630 Qualified Credentials in order MOBILE PORT AGENT Jimmy White, W-1600 Qualified Credentials in order NEW ORLEANS PORT AGENT Chris Westbrook, W-5787 Qualified Credentials in order HOUSTON PORT AGENT Joe Zavala, Z-5049 Qualified Credentials in order OAKL AND PORT AGENT Nicholas J. Marrone II, M-3537 Qualified Credentials in order PRESIDENT Michael J. Sacco, S-1288 Qualified Credentials in order ST. LOUIS PORT AGENT Chad Partridge, P-2057 Qualified Credentials in order EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT Michael D. Murphy, M-2483 Qualified Credentials in order Lisa Sottile, S-2948 Qualified Credentials in order Augustin “Augie” Tellez, T-764 Qualified Credentials in order DETROIT-ALGONAC PORT AGENT Todd R. Brdak, B-2684 Qualified Credentials in order SECRETARY-TREASURER David W. Heindel, H-1443 Qualified Credentials in order Your committee also reviewed the credentials that were submitted by the following two individuals. V ICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF CONTRACTS AND CONTRACT ENFORCEMENT George Tricker, T-919 Qualified Credentials in order Gilbert Tito Allende Jr, A-1678 nominated himself for Port Agent of Puerto Rico, and V ICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF THE ATL ANTIC COAST Joseph T. Soresi, S-2658 Qualified Credentials in order V ICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF THE GULF COAST Dean E. Corgey, C-5727 Qualified Credentials in order V ICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF THE WEST COAST Nicholas J. Marrone, M-2308 Qualified Credentials in order V ICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF THE SOUTHERN REGION, GREAT L AKES AND_INL AND WATERS Thomas Orzechowski, Jr, O-601 Qualified Credentials in order V ICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF GOV ERNMENT SERVICES AND FISHING INDUSTRIES Kathleen A. Hunt, H-15000 Qualified Credentials in order ASSISTANT V ICE-PRESIDENT IN David Stephens, S-3414 nominated himself for Port Agent of Jacksonville. Your committee, based on that fact that neither of these positions are constitutional positions for which a person can run for office, disqualified both of these individuals and did not feel the need to review any additional information concerning their eligibility. The Committee points out that in the President’s Pre-Balloting Report which published in the May SEAFARERS LOG and posted to the Seafarers website, the exact offices and jobs for which nominations were to be made was set forth. Your committee understood that, in prior election years, this report would have been presented to the membership at a regular membership meeting, but, again, due to the current COVID 19 pandemic, some membership meetings had to be cancelled to protect everyone’s health and safety. Your committee believes that all the relevant information was communicated extensively. In compliance with Article XIII, Section 2(b) of our Constitution, and in an attempt Continued on Page 8 September 2020 �SHBP Awards $132,000 in Scholarships The Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan’s 2020 Scholarship Committee on Aug. 10 bestowed scholarships totaling $132,000 upon nine individuals – in the process helping to chart their respective courses toward higher education degrees. Two active Seafarers and seven dependents were selected by the committee to receive funds to offset costs associated with pursuing degrees at accredited two- and four-year colleges. Tapped for the active Seafarer awards ($6,000 each) were QE3 Raibonne Charles and Chief Cook Craig Wooten. These mariners will pursue two-year degrees. Receiving four-year scholarships totaling $20,000 each were dependents: Collins Agyeman, Pearl Dingzon, Iman Meawad, Alexis Skipper and Angelica Barroga. Claiming $10,000 awards to pursue two-year courses of study were Matthew Ortiz and Marissa Peterson. Raibonne Charles Inland QE3 Raibonne Charles hails from Portland, Maine. He signed on with the union in 2016 and was a member of Paul Hall Center Class 809. A 2007 graduate of Windham High School in Windham, Maine, Charles was a well-rounded student. In addition to serving as president of his class, he was a member of the student council. In the athletic arena, he demonstrated versatility by participating in football, basketball and track and field. Charles was a church youth leader and volunteered numerous hours working in an area soup kitchen. He also assisted residents of a Maine veterans home where he was involved in impact mentoring. Following high school, Charles accepted an athletic scholarship to the University of Maine. He earned his degree in forestry while again making his mark on the gridiron as a standout defensive lineman. Charles’ accomplishments on the field did not go unnoticed, and not long after graduation, he was offered a contract to play professional football in the Arena Football League. He played three seasons as a linebacker with the Richmond (Virginia) Raiders. “In April 2015, I walked away from the game of football forever,” he said in his scholarship application package. “I knew I needed a career that provided stability and would give me the ability to provide.” At that juncture, Charles began revisiting interests from childhood. “As a young boy, the maritime industry was my first interest,” he said. “I have many fond memories of sitting on my veranda in Grenada and standing in the Portland harbor watching ships come in and out. Often, I was left wondering where did these ships come from and where will they go….” Charles said his interest in shipping probably was the result of his childhood environment. “Both of my childhood homes were heavily reliant on the maritime industry,” he shared in his application package. “The most influential person in my life was a seafarer…. The first seafarer I knew was my father.” No surprise then, that Charles chose maritime as his career going forward following his days in the Arena Football League. “After some further research, I realized that this (maritime industry) is what I wanted to do. In January of 2016, I boarded a plane to Baltimore (en route to Piney Point) and my life was never the same,” he said. While in the apprentice program, Charles says he not only learned about seamanship, but many other things as well. “I learned how important it is to have properly trained seamen sailing under the American Flag…. The American Maritime Industry is not only good for America, it’s good for the world.” He will use his scholarship to pursue courses which will help pave his way toward obtaining his third assistant engineer’s license. He has applied for admission to the Maritime Professional Training school in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida and the Mid Atlantic September 2020 Maritime Academy in Norfolk, Virginia. Chief Cook Craig Wooten Deep Sea Chief Cook Craig Wooten joined the union in 2016 after completing the apprentice program in Piney Point. A Georgia native, he is a 2010 graduate of Valdosta, Georgia’s Lowndes High School. Since his days as an apprentice, Wooten has returned to the Southern Maryland-based Paul Hall Center on numerous occasions to enhance his skills. Most recently, in 2019 he attended the school for firefighting and STCW training. “This year, I reach the ripe age of 28 and I wonder if I’m reaching my full potential,” Wooten shared in his scholarship application package. “Discovering the union (SIU) has propelled my life in such a dramatic way, but I still hunger for progression.” Advancement, including financial, educational, spiritual and physical, are all areas in his life that he is extremely passionate about, he added. “Before I joined the SIU, I was a broke college dropout searching for a way out.” In this stage of his life, he is looking to change that narrative and “leave a legacy worth remembering. To not only be a successful steward, but also a college grad.” His ultimate goal is to complement his work skills with higher education in order to become a successful businessman. “Studying some form of business is my biggest interest,” he said. “I want to be the CEO of a successful company one day.” Wooten already has completed 60 credits toward his degree at Georgia Military College in Milledgeville, Georgia. He hopes to realize his dream by completing the requirements for his bachelor’s degree in the very near future. He has applied for admission to the University of Miami, Hebron Technical Institute and Florida Barber Academy. He plans to focus his efforts in business and/or barbering. Collins Agyeman Collings Agyeman is the son of Deep Sea AB Collins Agyeman (and mother Esther, a care provider) who sails aboard the Intrepid Personnel and Provisioning-operated Pennsylvania. He has one sibling. Agyeman hails from Texas and is a 2020 graduate of YES Prep Boys School in Houston. During his high school tenure, he posted an overall 4.05 GPA and was involved in a host of athletic and non-athletic student activities. In the athletic arena, he was a member of the track and field as well as cross country teams. His non-athletic pursuits included the school debate team, academic decathlon team, Cavaliers for Christ and the YES Black Brotherhood. Agyeman served as lead drummer at Love in Christ Church and held leadership positions in several high school organizations, including president of this senior class. He regularly volunteered his time at Houston’s Westchase Health and Rehabilitation Center where he assisted the elderly and mentally impaired. Agyeman worked as a policy analyst, field intern and high school ambassador for the Raj Salhotra Campaign for the Houston City Council At Large. Finally, he was a teaching fellow for Breakthrough Houston. In this position, he taught rising high school juniors and sophomores effective strategies to improve scores on SAT tests. He has applied for admission to Vanderbilt University, Rice University and Emory University. Agyeman will pursue a degree in Political Science. Pearl Dingzon Pearl Dingzon is the daughter of Deep Sea ABG Julian Dingzon (and mother Nelia, a homemaker), who sails aboard the Decisive. She has five siblings. A 2020 graduate of Baltimore Polytechnic Institute, she posted an overall 4.61 GPA. Dingzon was a member of her school’s badminton squad and was active in a number of non-athletic activities. Included were the German Club, Gardening Club and the MERIT Health Leadership Academy. She was also the CEO, Youth Leadership Advisory Council. She has applied for admission to John Hopkins University, University of Maryland College Park, and Stevenson University. Dingzon plans to major in pre-med and psychology. Iman Meawad Iman Meawad is the daughter of Inland GUDE Kamal Meawad (and mother Howaida, a homemaker), who sails with WATCO. She has three siblings. Meawad hails from Staten Island, New York, and is a 2020 graduate of Susan E. Wagner High School. She ranked 107 in her class which numbered 768 students and posted a 4.68 overall GPA. She participated in her school’s Helping Hands and SAT Clubs. Additionally, Meawad served as a peer trainer and youth action member of New York City’s Citizens Committee for Children. After graduating from college as a registered nurse, she plans on becoming a nurse practitioner. Once she has realized that goal, she hopes to continue her education in nursing, ultimately specializing in mental health. Meawad has applied for admission to New York University, Hunter College and the College of Staten Island. Alexis Skipper Alexis Skipper is a 2020 graduate of St. Augustine High School and hails from St. Augustine, Florida. She’s the daughter of Inland Ordinary Seaman Norman Skipper Jr. (and mother Helen, a self-employed travel agent) who works with Crowley Towing and Transportation. She has four siblings. Skipper posted a 3.57 overall GPA at St. Augustine High and was a member of the tennis team. She also was a member of the National Honor Society and an all-star cheerleader. Additionally, she was a member of the school chorus and participated in the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and the Happening and New Beginnings retreats. Highly involved in church and civic activities, Skipper held office as head of music, youth delegate, communications director and junior weekend advisor. She was also a counselor and leader in her community’s Vacation Bible School. Skipper plans to pursue a career in nursing. She has applied for admission to Florida State University, the University of Florida and the University of South Florida. Angelica Barroga Angelica Barroga is the daughter of Deep Sea Chief Cook Domingo Barroga Jr. (and mother, Adelia, a drug store shift supervisor), who sails aboard Maersk Line, Limited’s Maersk Denver. She has two siblings. A 2020 graduate of Moanalua High School in Honolulu, Barroga accumulated an overall 3.83 GPA. She ranked 85th in her class which boasted 504 students. She participated in her school’s Judo, Leo and Science Clubs and was a member of the marching band color guard. Barroga also took part in the Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (JROTC) Academic Bowl. She was treasurer of her freshman class and Flight Leader of her school’s JROTC Golf Flight Element. An active participant in affairs that directly affected her community, she devoted countless hours volunteering. Included were such undertakings as Feed the Homeless, the Salvation Army Thanksgiving Lunch and Toys for Tots. Barroga was a frequent helper at elementary school fun fairs and music festivals. She has applied for admission to the University of Hawaii at Manoa, Grand Canyon University and Chaminade University. Barroga plans to study the health science and ultimately realize a career in nursing. Matthew Ortiz Matthew Ortiz hails from Saint Johns, Florida. He is the son of Inland DEU Ruben Ortiz (and mother, Miriam, a school clerk), who works aboard vessels operated by Crowley Towing. He has two sisters. A 2019 graduate of Creekside High School, Ortiz ranked 78th in his class which numbered 569 students. He posted a 4.31 overall GPA. Ortiz participated in cross country and track and field and was active in a host of non-athletic activities and societies including the National Honor Society, Phi Eta Sigma, Rho Kappa and the Catholic Student Union Economics Club. Ortiz dedicated many volunteer hours at the Dreams Come True Club, the St. Joseph’s Catholic Church and the Engineering Academy-St. Johns Housing Partner. He is enrolled at Florida State University where he already has completed 15 credits towards his bachelor’s degree. Ortiz is studying political science and economics. Ultimately, he hopes attend law school. Marissa Peterson Marissa Peterson is from Pooler, Georgia. She is the daughter of Inland Deckhand James Peterson Jr. (and mother, Michelle, a homemaker), who sails with Crescent Towing. A 2014 graduate of Windsor Forest High School, Peterson achieved a 4.0 overall GPA. She participated in her school’s concert and marching bands and was a member of both the Spanish Honor Society and National Honor Society. Peterson was extremely active in her community, volunteering her time at a host of organizations. She attended the College of Coastal Georgia from 2015-2017, along the way earning 41 credits. Over the past five years, Peterson has been self-employed as a child care provider for multiple organizations. She is a childbirth education doula, birth and bereavement doula and postpartum doula Peterson currently attends Georgia Southern University and has already earned 67 credits towards her degree. She is majoring in nursing. After earning her bachelor’s degree, she plans to continue her education, ultimately earning her master’s degree in nursing-midwifery. Seafarers LOG 7 �Committee Certifies Candidates’ Election Credentials Continued from Page 6 to give every nominee every consideration and to try to prevent any disqualifications by this Committee, William Lima, of the Credentials Committee, remained at the entrance of the Headquarters building of the Union until midnight of Saturday, August 15, 2020, to receive any credentials that might have been delivered by hand after the closing of business hours by the Union. All credentials received as of August 15, 2020 have been furnished to the Committee in good order. All credentials have been examined in strict accordance with the Constitution. Any defect in the credentials disposed of by the Committee has been the sole responsibility of the sender and no person adversely affected by such defect has denied this to the Committee. Dated: August 17, 2020 Timothy Pillsworth, P-1872 Chairman Earl Castain, C-1931 William Lima, L-15003 Donald Lumpkins, L-1414 Executive Board Aims to Boost Access To Absentee Ballots for SIU Election During the September membership meetings, Seafarers will be presented with actions by the union’s executive board aimed at facilitating access to absentee ballots for this year’s SIU election. The board approved these modifications in light of the global COVID19 pandemic. The SIU Constitution provides that eligible members can vote by absentee ballot if they are on a vessel or in a hospital during the voting period. For this election, the board proposes that anyone desiring to vote by absentee ballot be allowed to do so. While the constitution specifies that absentee-ballot requests should be made by registered or certified mail, for this election, the board proposes that such requests may be sent by regular mail (which wouldn’t require mem- bers to leave their homes to go to a post office). If, however, any member sends a request for an absentee ballot by regular mail, that member is asked to wait five or more days to allow the request to be delivered, and then call the office of SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel to verify the request has been received. Additionally, the constitution specifies that absentee ballot requests must be received at headquarters by 12 p.m. on Nov. 10 of the election year. Again because of the pandemic, and in an effort to enable full participation in this election, the board has proposed extending this deadline to 12 p.m. on Dec. 1, 2020 (meaning all absentee ballot requests would need to be received at headquarters by this new deadline date). The next item that the board has acted Karl Mayhew, M-15018 Luis Santiago Sotero, S-3456 Supplement to report: After the completion of our work and the signing of our report, your committee was asked to reconvene via conference call on August 18, 2020 at 11:00 a.m. We were advised that another credential was received at headquarters on August 17, 2020. The credential was submitted by Lisa Sottile to nominate herself for the position of Port Agent of St. Louis. Article XIII of the Constitution provides that all credentials must upon involves in-person voting hours. The constitution provides that voting at the hiring halls shall take place between 9 a.m. and noon, Mondays through Saturdays during the voting period. For this election, due to social distancing restrictions and limits on the number of people who can be present at a hiring hall any one time, the board proposes extending the in-person voting hours until 3 p.m. Mondays through Fridays. This would allow members to come in and vote between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. weekdays and from 9 a.m. to noon on Saturdays. The last issue undertaken by the SIU Executive Board pertaining to this election was a proposal to allow ballots to be brought by a union representative to a vessel that is in a U.S. port and that is within a 50-mile radius of a hiring hall or to other locations within the same radius where a ship’s crew might be congregating. If a vessel is beyond the 50mile radius, reasonable efforts will be made to try to deliver ballots; but, this would depend arrive at headquarters no later than August 15 of the election year. Notwithstanding that, your committee was provided with evidence indicating that Lisa Sottile’s credential arrived at the local post office on August 14 via overnight service; however, it was not delivered to the headquarters building until August 17. Your committee believes that sister Sottile should not be penalized by the delivery delay. Your committee, after reviewing her credentials has determined that she is qualified to run for the office of Port Agent of St. Louis, Missouri. on the actual distance and the availability of union representatives. (Also, if a vessel is one that the port routinely services and is beyond the 50-mile radius, ballots can be brought to that vessel during the routine servicing.) Due to restriction-to-ship issues, the board understood that it might be difficult for members desiring to vote in person to leave a vessel and come to a hiring hall. This proposed solution would help that situation. When ballots are brought to a vessel, members will have the opportunity to vote and arrangements will be made for them to do so in a secret fashion. All of these actions were carried out to help counter the effects of this pandemic and to try to ensure full membership participation in the SIU election. Again, they will be presented to the membership during the September meetings. Step-by-step instructions for requesting and submitting an absentee ballot will be posted on the SIU website and published in next month’s LOG. Spotlight on Mariner Health 2020 Flu Season Signals Start Of Critical Period for Everyone Editor’s note: This article was provided by the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan Medical Department. The 2020-2021 Flu Season is rapidly approaching and now is the time for everyone to begin formulating strategies to mitigate the condition as much as possible. Specifically, everyone 6 months and older (or those caring for them) should begin planning on getting vaccinated in order to reduce the overall burden of respiratory illness, protect vulnerable populations, and decrease burden on the healthcare system. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), between 39 million and 56 million people were sickened with the flu during last year’s flu season, which ran from Oct. 1, 2019 to April 4, 2020. This resulted in between 18-26 million medical visits and 410,000 to 740,000 hospitalizations. The CDC estimated that there were at least 24,00062,000 deaths related to the flu during the 20192020 season. While anyone can get sick from the flu, some individuals are at higher risk than others. Included in this category are people 65 or older, those who have chronic medical issues/conditions, the very young, and pregnant women. The signs and symptoms for flu usually arrive suddenly. Some of the symptoms that an individual who has contracted the illness may exhibit include: fever or chills, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, headaches, tiredness. Some may also may have diarrhea or vomiting. Most people who get the flu will recover in a few days to less than two weeks. Some, however, may develop complications such as pneumonia, severe sinus and ear infections, heart problems, encephalitis of the brain, and sepsis. Everyone should be aware that there are many different types of flu viruses and that they are constantly changing. For this reason, the composition of the flu vaccines for the U.S. is reviewed annually and updated as needed in order to match the flu viruses that are circulating. Flu vaccines protect against the three or four 8 Seafarers LOG viruses that researchers decide will be most common for that particular year. This illustrates the importance of everyone getting their annual flu shots. Simply put, these injections are a last line of defense when it comes to combating the complications caused by the flu virus. In this vein, September and October would be a good time to get the flu vaccine. Doing so during this period will give individuals protection through the winter months when the flu is most active. It is vitally important for essential workers, and persons at increased risk for severe illness, to get the flu shot yearly. For many Seafarers, flu shots are mandatory, both aboard military vessels and many commercial ships. Everyone should be aware that COVID-19 cases continue to increase throughout the country. With the seasonal flu season just around the corner, both illnesses could run rampant simultaneously. Such a situation undoubtedly could pose real challenges for the general public, essential workers and health officials. However, systems are in place to protect the population from COVID. Wearing face masks, practicing good hygiene and social distancing, avoiding group gatherings and other indoor activities, working from home, and virtual learning for schoolchildren are some of the measures which thus far have yielded favorable results. The presence of the COVID-19 Pandemic means that it’s more important than ever for everyone to get flu shots this year. The flu weakens individuals’ bodies to the point that they become more susceptible to the coronavirus, thus putting them at added risks. It should also be pointed out that it is possible to have the flu and COVID-19 at the same time. Such a scenario obviously decreases one’s chance of survival and should be avoided at all costs. The other point to remember is that there is still no vaccine available for COVID-19, so prevention of its spread currently is our only line of defense against it. Everyone is advised to stay as healthy as possible and get all immunizations as required, especially the yearly flu shot. Healthy Recipe Grilled Pineapple Chimichurri Chicken Servings 24 3 whole red bell peppers, halved and seeded 12 slices fresh pineapple, ½” thick sliced 4 cups cilantro leaves, whole 4 cups parsley sprigs ½ cup lime juice 1 ½ cups canola oil 1 ½ cups teriyaki sauce ½ cup fresh ginger root, minced 9 pounds chicken breast, 6 oz each ¾ cup green onion, chopped 1 ½ cups macadamia nuts Preparation Place pepper and pineapple on an oiled grill rack over medium heat; grill, covered, until lightly browned, 3-4 minutes per side. For chimichurri, place cilantro, parsley and lime juice in a food processor; pulse until herbs are finely chopped. Continue processing while slowly adding oil. Chop grilled pepper and pineapple; stir into herb mixture. Mix teriyaki sauce and ginger. Place chicken on an oiled grill rack over medium heat; grill, covered, until a thermometer reads 165 degrees F, 5-7 minutes per side. Brush with some of the teriyaki mixture during the last 4 minutes. Brush chicken with remaining teriyaki mixture before serving. If desired, serve with couscous. Top with chimichurri green onions and macadamia nuts. Nutrition Information Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 551 calories; 33g fat (53.2% calories from fat); 31g protein; 35g carbohydrate; 4g dietary fiber; 87 mg cholesterol; 781 md sodium. Exchanges: 0 grain (starch); 4 lean meat; 1 vegetable; 2 fruit; 4 fat. Editor’s note: The foregoing recipe was provided by Chef Robert “RJ” Johnson of the of the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education’s Lundeberg School of Seamanship. September 2020 �Mariners Answered Call During WWII Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea “Total Registered” and “Total Shipped” data is cumulative from July 16-August 15. “Registered on the Beach” data is as of August 15. Continued from Page 20 Superhuman Sacrifice It would have been exhausting work even for a man who had not already spent the entire night in the water, much less for this seaman who had consumed so much of his strength so that others of the crew could live till rescue arrived. When a line was finally thrown to Alm himself, he was almost too exhausted to secure it around his own waist. It seemed like hours before he could summon up sufficient strength to secure the knot and wave for them to haul him aboard. All this time Captain Brown kept his ship within a few feet of the castaways, but Alm was too weak now to help himself and when the Bury edged closer to try and swing him aboard, he was hit several times by the side of the ship. Once, he went down, choking with water, but the sea could not claim such a man as this and they fished him finally onto the deck, bruised, bleeding and covered with oil – exhausted to the point of semi-consciousness, but still very much alive. After they gave him a shot of brandy he passed out “like a light.” Gustave Alm was awarded the Distinguished Service Medal of the merchant marine. Wrote the Bury’s Captain Brown to the United States Maritime Commission: “I feel honored to have played a part in the rescue of a man with such spirit. He is a true American.” Total Registered Port All Groups A B Total Shipped C All Groups A B Registered on Beach C Trip Reliefs A All Groups B C To MacArthur on Bataan It was at Brisbane, Australia, in January of 1942 that several Army officers came board the SS Coast Farmer and informed Captain John A. Mattson that his ship was to be loaded immediately with a “very important” cargo of war supplies, and that he and his crew were to hurry them north with the utmost speed. Notice to SIU Pensioners Eligible For Health Benefits from SHBP A new Summary Plan Description (SPD) is available at http:// www.seafarers.org. This document describes your health benefits as a pensioner, and replaces the previous version, which was issued in 2015. The Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP) will send a printed version to all pensioners eligible for health benefits from the SHBP in the near future. To access the online version, look under the “About” menu, then go to “Benefit Plans” and then to “Health and Benefits Plan.” The PDF document is linked in the upper-right part of the page. September & October Membership Meetings Those attending membership meetings are reminded to bring face coverings. Safety protocols are in place at the halls and will remain in effect during the meetings. Seafarers are urged to check the SIU website and/or check with their hiring halls to verify that the membership meetings listed here are still happening. Piney Point.............*Tuesday: September 8, Monday: October 5 Algonac.....................................Friday: September 11, October 9 Baltimore..............................Thursday: September 10, October 8 Guam..................................Thursday: September 24, October 22 Honolulu................................Friday: September 18, October 16 Houston..................Monday: September 14, *Tuesday: October 13 Jacksonville......................Thursday: September 10, October 8 Joliet.....................................Thursday: September 17, October 15 Mobile.............................Wednesday: September 16, October 14 New Orleans............................Tuesday: September 15, October 13 Jersey City...............................Tuesday: September 8, October 6 Norfolk..................................Thursday: September 10, October 8 Oakland.............................Thursday: September 17, October 15 Philadelphia...................Wednesday: September 9, October 7 Port Everglades..................Thursday: September 17, October 15 San Juan............................Thursday: September 10, October 8 St. Louis......................................Friday: September 18, October 16 Tacoma................................Friday: September 25, October 23 Wilmington.....................Monday: September 21, October 19 *Piney Point change due to Labor Day Holiday; Houston change due to Columbus Day observance Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m September 2020 Seafarers LOG 9 �At Sea and Ashore with the SIU RETIREE GIVES BACK TO COMMUNITY – Retired Recertified Steward Shawn Fujiwara has produced and donated hundreds of face coverings in the Pacific Northwest since the start of the pandemic. “Feels good to give back,” he noted. ABOARD CS DECISIVE – In the photo above, Seafarers are pictured aboard the SubCom vessel in Newington, New Hampshire, where they loaded cable for a big project along the west coast of South America. The photo at the immediate right features Recertified Bosun Lovell Smith (left) and his son, AB Jamel Smith. The bosun reported excellent work by the deck gang and said they “rose to the occasion and did an outstanding job.” ABOARD PRESIDENT CLEVELAND – Pictured from left to right aboard the APL ship are SIU Oakland Patrolman Adrian Fraccarolli, ACU Tuliga Fuega, Recertified Steward Joseph Welle and Chief Cook Rey Chang. Photo was taken July 24 in Oakland. 10 Seafarers LOG September 2020 �PELICAN STATE SEAFARERS – Pictured following a dockside union meeting in Martinez, California, are QMED Jose Bonita, Apprentice Julian Rubbo, AB Casey Coddington and Recertified Bosun Sanjay Gupta. The vessel is operated by Intrepid Personnel and Provisioning. ABOARD PERLA DEL CARIBE – “New Orleans Night” was a hit aboard the TOTE vessel in San Juan, Puerto Rico. The menu featured snow crab legs, chicken cracklings, shrimp boil, corn on the cob, red potatoes, fresh green beans, and corn bread. Pictured from left are Chief Cook Steven Lopez and Chief Steward Ingrid Ortiz. At Sea and Ashore with the SIU BOOKS GALORE IN MICHIGAN – Pictured at the hiring hall in Algonac are (above, from left to right) Gateman Wisam Mesleh, GUDE Fadel Mohamed, Chief Cook Katherine Anderson and SA Abdul Ali. The first three aforementioned Seafarers received their respective full B-books, while Ali got his probationary book. He and Mohamed are both second-generation SIU members. FULL BOOK IN HOUSTON – AB Elvin Ruiz is sworn in July 22 at the hiring hall. FULL BOOK IN OAKLAND – Chief Cook Bryan Nystrom receives his full book at the hiring hall in late July. B-BOOK IN HAWAII – OS John Kaleiopu receives his full B-book. He’s pictured at the Honolulu hall. B-BOOK IN MOBILE – AB Dominique Glover is pictured with his full B-book at the hiring hall in Alabama. A-BOOK IN SAN JUAN – QEE Edwin Velez displays his newly acquired A-seniority book at the hiring hall in Puerto Rico. “I’m very proud of my union and thankful for all of the training they have provided, along with the jobs and opportunities for growth,” Velez said. September 2020 WELCOME ASHORE IN HOUSTON – Recertified Bosun Donald Clotter (photo at immediate left) picks up his first pension check at the hiring hall. ANCHORAGE IN KODIAK – In addition to his seafaring skills, AB Chris Linsley knows a thing or two about drone photography. He took this shot of the Matson Anchorage in Kodiak, Alaska, in late May. Seafarers LOG 11 �Inquiring Seafarer Seafarers International Union Directory Michael Sacco, President Augustin Tellez, Executive Vice President George Tricker, Vice President Contracts This month’s question was answered by upgraders at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Maryland. Tom Orzechowski, Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Question: What are some things you’re looking forward to whenever the pandemic finally ends? David Heindel, Secretary-Treasurer Dean Corgey, Vice President Gulf Coast Nicholas J. Marrone, Vice President West Coast Joseph T. Soresi, Vice President Atlantic Coast Kate Hunt, Vice President Government Services HEADQUARTERS 5201 Capital Gateway Drive Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr., Algonac, MI 48001 (810) 794-4988 ANCHORAGE 721 Sesame St., #1C, Anchorage, AK 99503 (907) 561-4988 BALTIMORE 2315 Essex St., Baltimore, MD 21224 (410) 327-4900 GUAM P.O. Box 3328, Hagatna, Guam 96932 Cliffline Office Ctr. Bldg., Suite 103B 422 West O’Brien Dr., Hagatna, Guam 96910 (671) 477-1350 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St., Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 625 N. York St., Houston, TX 77003 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 5100 Belfort Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32256 (904) 281-2622 JERSEY CITY 104 Broadway, Jersey City, NJ 07306 (201) 434-6000 JOLIET 10 East Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432 (815) 723-8002 Willie Smith AB I’m looking forward to a return to normalcy overall, including the travel I’ve missed out on, and planning a vacation. I love to fish and probably will charter a boat for the first time. But right now, I’m excited about getting my first job as a civilian mariner. I just finished a career in the Navy. Diane MacDonald Chief Cook I’m very hopeful that, as a global community, we can all remember that we’re in the same boat – pun intended. It’s an exciting time to watch this transformation through crisis. My training at Piney Point has helped prepare me to work safely through this pandemic. As a side note, please remember to support your local businesses. Juan Chevalier AB Watching some baseball with my family, including my father, who recently retired from the SIU. He sailed for 40 years and had 11,000 days at sea. He was an AB with Crowley. I’m looking forward to eventually travelling to the Dominican Republic, but it’s on lockdown right now. William Otero Chief Cook I can’t wait to get back to work, and get my kids back in school. It’s been hard not being out there. I want to get back to sailing and seeing the world, and get back to making money to support my family. But I do think all my training has prepared me, and the union has done their part to keep me safe during this period. Teva Kurth AB Life has actually been kind of going the same for me, just working and spending time with family. I do look forward to not having the burden of knowing I might come home with something and get the family sick, no matter how careful I’ve been. But I live pretty simply. Hussein Nasser Recertified Chief Cook I can’t wait to see my wife and kid back home. I hope we can collectively learn to keep our distance from other people a little more, and take all the lessons we’ve learned through this pandemic into the future. MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605 (251) 478-0916 NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 NORFOLK 115 Third St., Norfolk, VA 23510 (757) 622-1892 OAKLAND 1121 7th St., Oakland, CA 94607 (510) 444-2360 PHILADELPHIA 2604 S. 4 St., Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT 45353 St. George’s Avenue, Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 1221 S. Andrews Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 522-7984 SAN JUAN 659 Hill Side St., Summit Hills San Juan, PR 00920 (787) 721-4033 Pic From The Past This undated photo was submitted by Retired SIU Steward Assistant Trinidad Nieves who sailed with the union from 1967 to 2005. The photo shows Nieves honing his skills on the 350-Caliber Machine Gun. He was aboard the USNS Fisher as it made its way to the Persian Gulf. ST. LOUIS/ALTON 4581 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 TACOMA 3411 South Union Ave., Tacoma, WA 98409 (253) 272-7774 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave., Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 12 Seafarers LOG If anyone has a vintage union-related photograph he or she would like to share with other Seafarers LOG readers, please send it to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Capital Gateway Drive, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Photographs will be returned, if so requested. High-resolution digital images may be sent to webmaster@seafarers.org September 2020 �Welcome Ashore Each month, the Seafarers LOG pays tribute to the SIU members who have devoted their working lives to sailing aboard U.S.-flag vessels on the deep seas, inland waterways or Great Lakes. Listed below are brief biographical sketches of those members who recently retired from the union. The brothers and sisters of the SIU thank those members for a job well done and wish them happiness and good health in the days ahead. DEEP SEA ALI ALZOKARI Brother Ali Alzokari, 65, joined the Seafarers International Union in 2000, initially sailing on the McDonnell. He primarily sailed in the steward department and upgraded at the Paul Hall Center in 2005. Brother Alzokari most recently sailed on the Maersk Atlanta. He makes his home in Vallejo, California. PATRICK BAKER Brother Patrick Baker, 65, started sailing with the union in 1976 when he shipped on the Erna Elizabeth. A member of the deck department, he upgraded at the Piney Point school on multiple occasions. Brother Baker last sailed on the Liberty Wave and settled in Panama City, Florida. OLIVER BOHANNON Brother Oliver Bohannon, 72, embarked on his career with the Seafarers in 1991 when he sailed on the USNS Capable. He upgraded at the Paul Hall Center on multiple occasions and was a deck department member. Brother Bohannon’s final vessel was the Energy Enterprise. He lives in Barberton, Ohio. VASIL CHOLAKOVSKI Brother Vasil Cholakovski, 67, began his career with the SIU in 2008, initially sailing aboard the Dependable. He was a member of the engine department and upgraded at the Piney Point school on several occasions. Brother Cholakovski most recently shipped on the Maersk Columbus. He makes his home in Issaquah, Washington. DONALD CLOTTER KEVIN DOUGHERTY Brother Kevin Dougherty, 65, joined the union in 1983. A steward department member, he first sailed aboard the Independence. Brother Dougherty upgraded his skills at the Paul Hall Center on numerous occasions. He most recently shipped aboard the Horizon Pacific and makes his home in Princeville, Hawaii. JOSEPH EMIDY Brother Joseph Emidy, 61, began sailing with the SIU in 1980. He shipped in the steward department and upgraded at the Piney Point school on several occasions. Brother Emidy’s first vessel was the El Paso Southern; his most recent, the Oregon. He settled in Blackstone, Massachusetts. DAVID FRIDSTROM Brother David Fridstrom, 65, signed on with the union in 2001, initially sailing on the Richard G. Matthiesen. He upgraded at the Paul Hall Center within his first year and was a member of the deck department. Brother Fridstrom’ s final vessel was the Maersk Kinloss. He resides in San Diego. DAVID GARRETT Brother David Garrett, 65, donned the SIU colors in 2003. He first sailed aboard the Abby G and worked in the engine department. Brother Garrett most recently shipped on the SBX. He makes his home in Bali. LAURO MANGAHAS Brother Donald Clotter, 67, joined the union in 1990 when he shipped on the Independence. A deck department member, he upgraded at the Paul Hall Center on multiple occasions. Brother Clotter’s last vessel was the Overseas Texas City. He is a Houston resident. Brother Lauro Mangahas, 65, started shipping with the Seafarers in 1993, initially sailing aboard the President Van Buren. He sailed in all three departments and upgraded at the Paul Hall Center on multiple occasions. Brother Mangahas last sailed on the Cape Inscription. He resides in the Philippines. JULES DELGADO DONALD MCGRAW Brother Jules Delgado, 66, donned the SIU colors in 2001. He shipped in the deck department and upgraded at the union-affiliated Piney Point school on multiple occasions. Brother Delgado’s first vessel was the Lykes Explorer; his most recent, the Green Ridge. He settled in Daytona Beach, Florida. September 2020 Brother Donald McGraw, 65, embarked on his career with the SIU in 1989 when he sailed aboard the USNS H.H. Hess. He primarily worked in the deck department and upgraded at the Piney Point school on numerous occasions. Brother McGraw last shipped on the Cape Kennedy. He calls Avondale, Louisiana, home. ROBERT RICHARDSON Brother Robert Richardson, 66, started shipping with the SIU in 1976, initially aboard a Waterman Steamship vessel. He sailed in the deck department and upgraded his skills on multiple occasions at the Paul Hall Center. He last sailed aboard the Horizon Reliance and settled in Springfield, Illinois. barked on his career with the SIU in 1980, initially sailing aboard the Brooklyn. A deck department member, he upgraded at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center on several occasions. Brother Schwedland’s final vessel was the Walter J. McCarthy. He calls St. Petersburg, Florida, home. MARK RUHL JON WATSON Brother Mark Ruhl, 65, joined the SIU in 1974. An engine department member, he first sailed aboard the Yukon. Brother Ruhl upgraded at the Paul Hall Center on multiple occasions. He concluded his career on the Cape Washington and resides in Chevy Chase, Maryland. Brother Jon Watson, 65, joined the union in 1976 when he shipped on the J.S. Young. He was a deck department member and upgraded at the Paul Hall Center on numerous occasions. Brother Watson’s final vessel was the Indiana Harbor. He calls South Lyon, Michigan, home. OVIDIO SANTOS Brother Ovidio Santos, 65, signed on with the union in 2001. He upgraded often at the Piney Point school and sailed in the deck department. Brother Santos’ first vessel was the Energy Enterprise; his last, the Maersk Kinloss. He is a resident of New Bedford, Massachusetts. GREAT LAKES GERALD ANDERSON Brother Gerald Anderson, 65, joined the SIU in 1979 when he sailed with American Steamship. He upgraded at the Paul Hall Center on numerous occasions and was an engine department member. Brother Anderson’s final vessel was the John Boland. He lives in Watertown, South Dakota. DANIEL BREYER Brother Daniel Breyer, 65, became a member of the SIU in 2001. He was a deck department member and first sailed aboard the Gemini. Brother Breyer upgraded at the Piney Point school on multiple occasions. He last sailed on the St. Clair and makes his home in Sun City, Arizona. RICHARD GAUTHIER Brother Richard Gauthier, 63, began sailing with the Seafarers in 1993. He sailed in both the deck and steward departments and upgraded at the Piney Point school in 1997. Brother Gauthier first worked for Upper Lakes Barge Lines. He most recently shipped on the Joyce L. VanEnkevort and resides in Bark River, Michigan. STEVE SCHWEDLAND Brother Steve Schwedland, 66, em- INLAND MARK BURGER Brother Mark Burger, 65, signed on with the Seafarers in 1981. A deck department member, he upgraded at the Piney Point school on multiple occasions. Brother Burger was employed by Moran Towing of Texas for the duration of his career. He lives in Germania, New Jersey. DANIEL CRONAN Brother Daniel Cronan, 66, donned the SIU colors in 1998 when he shipped with Penn Maritime. He sailed in both the deck and engine departments. Brother Cronan upgraded at the Piney Point school on several occasions. He last sailed aboard the Integrity and makes his home in Wakefield, Rhode Island. STEPHEN GARDINER Brother Stephen Gardiner, 59, began his career with the Seafarers in 1979, initially sailing aboard the Overseas Washington. He was a member of the deck department and upgraded at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center on multiple occasions. Brother Gardiner’s final vessel was the Achievement. He settled in Norwood, Pennsylvania. JIMMY LIPSCOMB Brother Jimmy Lipscomb, 62, joined the SIU in 1979, initially working with G&H Towing. He sailed in the engine department and concluded his career aboard the Vision. Brother Lipscomb is a resident of Santa Fe, Texas. TIMOTHY MACRURY Brother Timothy Macrury, 65, embarked on his career with the union in 1976, initially working for H&M Lake Transport. He sailed in both the steward and deck departments and upgraded at the Piney Point school on several occasions. Brother Macrury was last employed by OLS Transport. He settled in Port Huron, Michigan. THOMAS PAYTOSH Brother Thomas Paytosh, 59, signed on with the Seafarers union in 2000, initially sailing with Riverboat Services. He was an engine department member and upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Paytosh most recently shipped on the Courage. He resides in Bonita Springs, Florida. MICHAEL STRAVERS Brother Michael Stravers, 62, started shipping with the union in 1978 when he sailed aboard the Capricorn. He upgraded often at the Piney Point school and shipped in both the deck and engine departments. Brother Stravers last sailed with Crowley Towing and Transportation. He settled in Normandy Park, Washington. TERRY TRACY Brother Terry Tracy, 68, donned the SIU colors in 1993. He was employed by G&H Towing for his entire career. Brother Tracy was a deck department member. He lives in Dickinson, Texas. BRYAN WYNN Brother Bryan Wynn, 62, joined the SIU in 2007 when he worked for Starlight Marine Services. He sailed in both the engine and deck departments and upgraded at the Paul Hall Center in 2010. Brother Wynn continued to work for the same company for the duration of his career. He makes his home in Prunedale, California. MARK GODBOLD Brother Mark Godbold, 66, started sailing with the union in 1996 when he worked for Westbank Riverboat Services. He was a deck department member and upgraded at the Piney Point school in 2001. Brother Godbold last shipped on the Padre Island. He calls Slidell, Louisiana, home. Seafarers LOG 13 �Final Departures DEEP SEA THOMAS ARNOLD Pensioner Thomas Arnold, 84, died June 24. He signed on with the SIU in 1969 and first shipped on the Sabine. Brother Arnold was a member of the deck department. He concluded his career on the Hawaii and became a pensioner in 2001. Brother Arnold resided in Ringgold, Georgia. SANG BAE Pensioner Sang Bae, 84, passed away July 4. He joined the SIU in 1983. Brother Bae first sailed aboard the Independence. He primarily sailed in the steward department, and last shipped on the Galveston Bay. Brother Bae retired in 2000. He was a resident of Bensalem, Pennsylvania. MARTHA BYE Sister Martha Bye, 60, died May 10. She signed on with the Seafarers in 2000; her first vessel was the USNS Prevail. Sister Bye worked in the steward department. She most recently sailed aboard the Ocean Trader and made her home in Clarksville, Indiana. CHARLES CLACKLEY Pensioner Charles Clackley, 77, passed away July 15. He joined the union in 1990 when he shipped aboard the Eugene A. Obregon. Brother Clackley was an engine department member and last sailed on the USNS Stockham. He went on pension in 2006 and settled in Panama City Beach, Florida. RONALD GORDON Pensioner Ronald Gordon, 66, died June 27. He joined the SIU in 1980 and first sailed on the Santa Mercedes. Brother Gordon was an engine department member. He last shipped aboard the Overseas Philadelphia before going on pension in 2009. Brother Gordon was a resident of Mobile, Alabama. RONALD HUYETT Pensioner Ronald Huyett, 78, has passed away. He became a member of the union in 1989, initially sailing aboard the Anders. Brother Huyett sailed in the deck department. He last 14 Seafarers LOG shipped aboard the El Yunque before becoming a pensioner in 2010. Brother Huyett lived in Seattle. LESLIE KLEIN Pensioner Leslie Klein, 74, died July 6. He embarked on his career with the SIU in 1999 when he sailed aboard the Overseas Joyce. Brother Klein primarily sailed in the deck department and last shipped on the Horizon Tacoma. He retired in 2011 and resided in Poulsbo, Washington. MILDRED LAND Sister Mildred Land, 94, has passed away. A Texas native, she began shipping with the Seafarers International Union in 1978. Sister Land sailed in the steward department and was employed with States Steamship for the duration of her career. She resided in Benicia, California. ROBERT MCGONAGLE Pensioner Robert McGonagle, 88, died June 14. He joined the SIU in 1955 and first sailed aboard a Veritas Steamship vessel. A deck department member, Brother McGonagle last sailed aboard the Independence in 1993. He became a pensioner the same year and settled in Ewa Beach, Hawaii. PAUL MCMAHON CHARLES SPENCE Pensioner Charles Spence, 76, passed away July 7. He embarked on his career with the union in 1973, initially sailing aboard the Kinsman Enterprise. Brother Spence primarily sailed in the deck department and last shipped aboard the Overseas New York. He became a pensioner in 2009 and called La Quinta, California, home. LINTON TAYLOR Pensioner Linton Taylor, 82, died May 9. He joined the Seafarers in 1969 and first shipped aboard the Steel Scientist. Brother Taylor was a member of the steward department and concluded his career aboard the Cape Breton. He went on pension in 2014 and lived in Seattle. GEORGE WILLIAMSON Pensioner George Williamson, 94, passed away July 24. He signed on with the SIU in 1951, initially sailing on a Victory Carriers ship. Brother Williamson was an engine department member. He last shipped on the Overseas Ulla and retired in 1982. Brother Williamson made his home in Mobile, Alabama. INLAND RUPERT CARTER Pensioner Paul McMahon, 86, passed away April 15. He joined the SIU in 1964 and sailed in the deck department. Brother McMahon’s first vessel was the Steel Direct; his last, the Endurance. He retired in 1999 and was a resident of Las Vegas. Pensioner Rupert Carter, 70, died June 2. He was born in Cumberland, North Carolina, and embarked on his career with the SIU in 1969. Brother Carter sailed in the deck department. He worked for the Association of Maryland Pilots until his retirement in 2012. Brother Carter resided in Parkton, North Carolina. PAUL MOSS JAMES DONNELLY Brother Paul Moss, 57, died May 9. He began sailing with the union in 1987, when he shipped aboard the Cape Horn. Brother Moss primarily worked in the deck department, most recently aboard the Ocean Crescent. He was a Houston resident. WILLIAM SIMMONS Pensioner William Simmons, 68, died July 27. He donned the SIU colors in 1970 when he worked for Hvide Marine. Brother Simmons shipped in the steward department. He last sailed on the Yorktown Express and retired in 2014. Brother Simmons made his home in Call, Texas. Pensioner James Donnelly, 81, has passed away. He signed on with the Seafarers in 1962. Brother Donnelly first worked for G&H Towing. He concluded his career with the same company and went on pension in 2002. Brother Donnelly lived in Houston. JULIA HILL Pensioner Julia Hill, 66, died May 12. She began sailing with the union in 1988 when she worked for Delta Queen Steamboat Company. A steward department member, Sister Hill last shipped aboard the American Queen. She became a pensioner in 2015 and settled in Flint, Michigan. JOHN JACKSON Brother John Jackson, 56, passed away June 19. He signed on with the Seafarers International Union in 1994 when he worked for Crowley Towing and Transportation. Brother Jackson primarily shipped in the deck department and was employed with the same company for the duration of his career. He resided in Jacksonville, Florida, his birthplace. JOSEPH LEWIS Pensioner Joseph Lewis, 91, died August 2. He joined the union in 1959 and sailed with Chesapeake & Ohio Railway for the duration of his career. Brother Lewis became a pensioner in 1988 lived in Grimstead, Virginia. JOHN O’NEILL Pensioner John O’Neill, 80, passed away June 28. He joined the union in 1996 and worked for Crowley until his retirement in 2006. Brother O’Neill lived in Springfield, Pennsylvania. ROBERT PALMER Pensioner Robert Palmer, 67, died July 31. He signed on with SIU in 1998 and sailed in the deck department. Brother Palmer was employed by G&H Towing for his entire career. He retired in 2017 and made his home in Rockport, Texas. JOHN PRIMEAUX Pensioner John Primeaux, 83, passed away August 1. He embarked on his career with the Seafarers in 1986. A deck department member, Brother Primeaux worked with Higman Barge Lines for the duration of his career. He became a pensioner in 2005 and settled in Kaplan, Louisiana. died July 28. He joined the SIU in 1967 and first sailed aboard the Eagle Voyage. Brother Springfield was a steward department member. He was last employed by OSG Ship Management before becoming a pensioner in 1996. Brother Springfield lived in Vineland, New Jersey. ROBERT TRIGG Pensioner Robert Trigg, 77, passed away July 2. He started sailing with the SIU in 1987. Brother Trigg first shipped aboard the USNS Lynch and sailed in the deck department. He concluded his career working on the Sugar Island and went on pension in 2004. Brother Trigg resided in Ocean Springs, Mississippi. NMU LINCOLN RICH Pensioner Lincoln Rich, 82, died July 3. He was an NMU member before the 2001 NMU/SIU merger. Brother Rich sailed in the deck department and last shipped aboard the Mormac Sun. He retired in 2003 and settled in Miami. In addition to the foregoing individuals, the following union members have also passed away. Insufficient information was available to develop summaries of their respective careers. NAME AGE Benson, Vernon 90 Chavez, Raul 95 Clayton, Mc 90 Dairo, Leo 92 Ferguson, Sarah 94 Filer, Eddie 83 Foster, David 87 Gilbert, Jack 90 Guzman, Robinson 90 Henderson, John 92 Jackson, Donald 94 Kerlin, Derwood 83 Passos, Regina 91 Pino, Ricardo 99 DOD 07/16/2020 07/03/2020 06/27/2020 06/27/2020 07/23/2020 06/29/2020 02/17/2020 06/11/2020 07/03/2020 05/23/2020 07/24/2020 06/22/2020 04/14/2020 08/05/2020 SILAS SAM Brother Silas Sam, 58, passed away June 15. He signed on with the SIU in 1999 and first sailed aboard the Overseas Joyce. Brother Sam was a deck department member and most recently shipped on the Courage. He lived in Rosharon, Texas. HARRY SPRINGFIELD Pensioner Harry Springfield, 91, September 2020 �Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings WEST VIRGINIA (Intrepid Personnel & Provisioning), March 28 – Chairman John Cedeno, Secretary Milton Yournett, Educational Director Scott Fuller, Deck Delegate Juberto Perez, Engine Delegate Jose Smith, Steward Delegate Wilma Jackson. Chairman recommended members enroll in vacation direct deposit and sign up for SIU text alerts. Bosun has ordered games for crew to use during off time. Due to pandemic, linen will no longer be sent ashore for cleaning. Crew was instructed on related overtime protocols. Educational director informed crew that Paul Hall Center is no longer taking applications until further notice. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Bosun has deck department disinfecting house at least twice a day and instructed crew to follow six-feet social distancing guidelines. Deck tools are sanitized before and after each use. Toaster on order for crew. Members requested 401K match and an increase in paid vacation to 20 for 30. Crew would like base wages and OT to be paid to any member who gets infected with COVID-19 while employed aboard any vessel. Vote of thanks given to steward department for keeping a cheerful and positive attitude during meal hours and for an overall job well done with food. WEST VIRGINIA (Intrepid Personnel & Provisioning), May 25 – Chairman John The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted. Ships’ minutes first are reviewed by the union’s contract department. Those issues requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the union upon receipt of the ships’ minutes. The minutes are then forwarded to the Seafarers LOG for publication. Cedeno, Secretary Milton Yournett, Educational Director Yuri Oliveros, Deck Delegate Michael Sedita, Engine Delegate Rudolph Miller. Crew was instructed to keep work tools clean and sanitize deck twice daily. Members were also reminded to keep a six feet social distance. Chairman explained the process for writing in restriction to vessel while in port. He encouraged members to enroll in vacation direct deposit. Two brand new sets of linen being offered to each crew member. Secretary reminded crew to wash old linens before turning them in. Educational director will follow up every two weeks with updates for Piney Point classes. OT dispute reported by each delegate for ship restriction. Bosun to call next port hiring hall to address dispute. Members requested new mattresses and new toaster for crew. Members expressed concerns with room inspections conducted by captain without presence of bosun and chief steward. Crew would like to see a 401K match program and an increase in monthly vacation days. Next port: New Jersey. EVERGREEN STATE (Intrepid Personnel & Provisioning), May 31 – Chairman Martin Baker, Secretary Jose Clotter, Educational Director Dennis Blake. Crew members not receiving pay vouchers on time or at payout. Bosun informed union officials of pay voucher issue. Steward department thanked for a job well done. Educational director encouraged members to continue to upgrade. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members asked for retirement requirements to change from minimum age to actual years served. New treadmill and elliptical needed for gym. MAERSK MONTANA (Maersk Line, Limited), June 1 – Chairman Tecumseh Williams, Secretary James Cameron, Educational Director Eddie Almodovar. Chairman advised members to upgrade at the Paul Hall Center and be prepared to take whatever course necessary for basic safety training and STCW endorsement. Secretary thanked crew for helping with keeping the house clean. Educational director reminded members to pay close attention to expiration dates on credentials and prepare for renewals well in advance. He thanked steward department for a job well done. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members were encouraged to read the LOG, especially the President’s Report. Crew requested increases in health benefits. Members would like vacation pay to be 25 for 30. LIBERTY PROMISE (Liberty Maritime), June 21 – Chairman Scott Snodgrass, Secretary Robert Davis, Educational Director Maurice Ayuso, Deck Delegate Dennis Mariveles, Steward Delegate Michelle Taylor. Concerns voiced about having only one washer and dryer for crew and lack of hot water for coffee machine. Questions raised about members not being compensated for ship restriction while officers reportedly are being paid. Chairman announced payoff in Charleston and plans to contact SIU to have port agent meet the ship to discuss complaints. Vote of thanks given to crew for keeping inside house clean and to ABs for working together when docking and undocking. Secretary has vacation applications, beneficiary cards and medical forms available. He advised members to read the board for communications from SIU. Educational director urged crew to check document dates and Coast Guard application statuses. He advised members to upgrade at Piney Point when classes resume. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Old business items still apply and have not been resolved. Crew should have access to satellite phone and be able to purchase phone cards. Poor Wi-Fi service reported on ship. Members feel that Wi-Fi availability should be free and not ten dollars a week. Crew requests a visit from port agent. They thanked chief cook for buying snacks from slop chest and putting them out for crew. Members were reminded to not let doors slam and to check on port shuttle to seamen’s club. Next port: Charleston, South Carolina. MAERSK PITTSBURGH (Maersk Line, Limited), July 12 – Chairman Domingo Leon, Secretary Darryl Goggins, Educational Director Jan Morawski, Deck Delegate Randolph Jemmott, Steward Delegate Israel Coronel. Bosun thanked crew for a safe voyage and advised everyone to be careful on their time off during the pandemic. Secretary reminded members to be sure to leave clean rooms when getting off ship. Educational director encouraged members to upgrade their skills at the Paul Hall Center. He provided instructions for going on website and for inquiring about sea time. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested a raise in pension and vacation days. Members would like physicals be required only once per year. Next port: Charleston, South Carolina. MAERSK IOWA (Maersk Line, Limited), July 17 – Chairman Egidio Ferreira. Chairman went over President’s Column from latest edition of Seafarers LOG and recommended members upgrade at union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, located in Piney Point, Maryland. He advised crew to follow safety guidelines and to wear masks and gloves. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members gave thanks to headquarters and all workers that continue to work through the pandemic. Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The Constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership’s money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the secretary-treasurer. A yearly finance committee of rank-and-file members, elected by the membership, each year examines the finances of the union and reports fully their findings and recommendations. The annual financial committee will be elected during the September 8 Headquarters Membership Meeting to review the 2019 records. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District are administered in accordance with the provisions of various trust fund agreements. All these agreements specify that the trustees in charge of these funds shall equally consist of union and management representatives and their alternates. All expenditures and disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval by a majority of the trustees. All trust fund financial records are available at the headquarters of the various trust funds. SHIPPING RIGHTS. A member’s shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively by contracts between the union and the employers. Members should get to know their shipping rights. Copies of these contracts are posted and available in all union halls. If members believe there have been violations of their shipping or seniority rights as contained in the contracts between the union and the employers, September 2020 they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified mail, return receipt requested. The proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Capital Gateway Drive Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers Appeals Board. CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU contracts are available in all SIU halls. These contracts specify the wages and conditions under which an SIU member works and lives aboard a ship or boat. Members should know their contract rights, as well as their obligations, such as filing for overtime (OT) on the proper sheets and in the proper manner. If, at any time, a member believes that an SIU patrolman or other union official fails to protect their contractual rights properly, he or she should contact the nearest SIU port agent. EDITORIAL POLICY — THE SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful to the union or its collective membership. This established policy has been reaffirmed by membership action at the September 1960 meetings in all constitutional ports. The responsibility for Seafarers LOG policy is vested in an editorial board which consists of the executive board of the union. The executive board may delegate, from among its ranks, one individual to carry out this responsibility. PAYMENT OF MONIES. No monies are to be paid to anyone in any official capacity in the SIU unless an official union receipt is given for same. Under no circumstances should any member pay any money for any reason unless he is given such receipt. In the event anyone attempts to require any such payment be made without supplying a receipt, or if a member is required to make a payment and is given an official receipt, but feels that he or she should not have been required to make such payment, this should immediately be reported to union headquarters. CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS. Copies of the SIU Constitution are available in all union halls. All members should obtain copies of this constitution so as to familiarize themselves with its contents. Any time a member feels any other member or officer is attempting to deprive him or her of any constitutional right or obligation by any methods, such as dealing with charges, trials, etc., as well as all other details, the member so affected should immediately notify headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU Constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Consequently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION (SPAD). SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and purposes including, but not limited to, furthering the political, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and furthering of the American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect and further his or her economic, political and social interests, and American trade union concepts. NOTIFYING THE UNION — If at any time a member feels that any of the above rights have been violated, or that he or she has been denied the constitutional right of access to union records or information, the member should immediately notify SIU President Michael Sacco at headquarters by certified mail, return receipt requested. The address is: Michael Sacco, President Seafarers International Union 5201 Capital Gateway Drive Camp Springs, MD 20746 Seafarers LOG 15 �CIVMAR-Crewed USNS Yukon Conducts Arabian Sea Rescue The USNS Yukon may have made history on Aug. 7 by performing a rescue in the Arabian Sea. While there’s nothing new about American-flag ships aiding fellow mariners, this particular operation included a component unique to 2020: social distancing. The Yukon’s crew includes members of the SIU Government Services Division. According to news reports, the Yukon received notification that the dhow Wadi Karan was adrift and required assistance. The Wadi Karan had experienced engine failure 10 days earlier, and the crew had run out of food and water. After assessing the situation, the Yukon’s crew provided them with food and water, and they remained on station until naval forces from nearby Oman arrived to provide further assistance. Throughout the rescue, the Yukon’s crew maintained social distancing, including following face covering requirements, in order to prevent the possible transmission of COVID-19 between the two crews. “The duty to help each other when in need is something that all mariners share, civilian and military alike,” said Navy Capt. Michael O’Driscoll, commander of Task Force 53, to which the Yukon is assigned. “The sailors and civilian mariners aboard MSC ships are trained and ready to answer this call whenever possible.” Safety in San Juan Sailors aboard a rigid hull inflatable boat assigned to the USNS Yukon transit from the distressed motor vessel Wadi Karan after rendering assistance in the Arabian Sea. (Photo courtesy U.S. Navy) Coast Guard Announces Some REC Reopenings The U.S. Coast Guard’s National Maritime Center circulated the following announcement in midAugust. Reopening of RECs Honolulu & Houston and MU San Juan ABs Jorge Soler and Jonamie Encarnacion are pictured aboard TOTE’s Perla Del Caribe in mid-August, during a safety drill. The National Maritime Center (NMC) is reopening Regional Examination Centers (RECs) Honolulu and Houston, and Monitoring Unit (MU) San Juan for limited examination services beginning Monday, August 24, 2020. Additionally, REC Juneau and MU Ketchikan reopened on August 17, 2020. Mariners seeking to schedule examinations may do so by calling the appropriate phone number or contacting the appropriate e-mail address: REC Houston – rechoustonexam@uscg.mil REC Honolulu – rechonolulu@uscg.mil MU San Juan – (787) 729-2368 REC Juneau – recjun@uscg.mil MU Ketchikan – (907) 225-4496 (extension #3) Examination appointment request e-mails should include the applicant’s name, mariner reference number, requested testing date(s), phone number, and a copy of their Approved to Test Letter(s). Examination services will be by appointment only. No walk-in appointments are available, and all other application customer service functions will continue to be handled remotely. Mariners will be subject to COVID-19 screening questions and temperature checks. Mariners experiencing COVID-19 symptoms (fever or chills, cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, fatigue, muscle or body aches, headache, new loss of taste or smell, sore throat, congestion or runny nose, nausea or vomiting, or diarrhea), will not be permitted to enter the REC/MU and will need to reschedule their appointment. Mariners are required to wear a face covering at all times. Those who refuse to wear a face covering, or who remove face coverings during exams, will be dismissed and could be subject to examination module failure. Persons with documented health issues which prevent them from wearing face coverings must notify the REC/MU when scheduling an appointment. Mariners should bring their own #2 pencils, a non-programmable calculator, and plotting equipment. No other personal belongings are allowed in the facility. All counter service appointments and hand delivery of applications remain suspended. The Customer Service Center remains open from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. EST, Monday through Friday. Please reach our call center at 1-888-IASKNMC (427-5662) and IASKNMC@ uscg.mil. The NMC will announce future REC/ MU openings shortly. Union Activities Return to Edited Version of Normalcy Continued from Page 3 work online prior to arriving at the PHC, and they came away impressed with the process. “It was a great experience,” said AB Willie Smith. “I learned a lot and I’m glad the school was able to pull it off. That was my first time doing an online class, and it was awesome.” AB Juan Chevalier said it also was a new expe- 16 Seafarers LOG rience for him. “I had to buy a laptop, but the whole process was really nice. It all turned out good,” he said. AB Teva Kurth saw the online interaction as part of a bigger picture since the pandemic began. “It was pretty good, and I’m really happy the union did what they could to keep us working and get us where we need to be,” he said. “I’m very grateful.” Training (photo directly above) resumes at the unionaffiliated Paul Hall Center in early August. In the photo at left, Seafarers in Houston spread out and mask up for the August membership meeting. September 2020 �Paul Hall Center Classes The following is a list of courses that currently are scheduled to be held at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Maryland during the next several months. More courses may be added. Course additions and cancellations are subject to change due to COVID-19 protocols. All programs are geared toward improving the job skills of Seafarers and promoting the American maritime industry. Seafarers who have any questions regarding the upgrading courses offered at the Paul Hall Center may call the admissions office at (301) 994-0010. Title of Course Start Date Date of Completion Deck Department Upgrading Courses Able Seafarer Deck (online lecture) October 5 October 19 October 16 October 23 Module 3 September 7 September 11 Module 4 September 15 September 21 October 12 September 18 October 09 October 16 Module 5 October 19 October 26 November 2 November 4 November 10 October 23 October 30 November 3 November 6 November 20 Module 6 November 23 December 18 AB to Mate Modules Module dates vary throughout the year. Once accepted, students will be advised of dates. Classes are only open to students in AB to Mate program and modules must be taken in order. Engine Department Upgrading Courses FOWT October 19 November 13 Junior Engineer September 21 October 26 November 13 December 18 Steward Department Upgrading Courses Galley Operations September 28 November 16 October 23 December 11 Certified Chief Cook September 7 October 12 November 16 October 9 November 13 December 18 Safety/Open Upgrading Courses Basic Training Revalidation September 11 September 14 September 18 September 11 September 14 September 18 UPGRADING APPLICATION Name ________________________________________________________________________ Address ______________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ Telephone (Home)_________________________ (Cell)_________________________ Date of Birth __________________________________________________________________ Deep Sea Member o Lakes Member o Inland Waters Member o If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security #_______________________ Book #_________________________________ Seniority_____________________________ Department_____________________________ Home Port____________________________________________________________________ E-mail_______________________________________________________________________ Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held_____________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ Are you a graduate of the SHLSS/PHC trainee program? o Yes o No If yes, class # and dates attended __________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? oYes o No _____________________________________________________________________________ With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty-five (125) days seatime for the previous year, MMC, TWIC, front page of your book including your department and seniority and qualifying sea time for the course if it is Coast Guard tested. Must have a valid SHBP clinic through course date. I authorize the Paul Hall Center to release any of the information contained in this application, or any of the supporting documentation that I have or will submit with this application to related organizations, for the purpose of better servicing my needs and helping me to apply for any benefits which might become due to me. September 2020 COURSE ____________________________ ____________________________ START DATE _______________ _______________ DATE OF COMPLETION ________________________ ________________________ ____________________________ _______________ ________________________ ____________________________ _______________ ________________________ ____________________________ _______________ ________________________ ____________________________ _______________ ________________________ LAST VESSEL: ___________________________________ Rating: ____________________ Date On: _______________________________ Date Off:____________________________ SIGNATURE ____________________________________ DATE______________________ NOTE: Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only if you present original receipts and successfully complete the course. If you have any questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. Not all classes are reimbursable. Return completed application to: Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education Admissions Office, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674-0075; or fax to (301) 994-2189. The Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education is a private, non-profit, equal opportunity institution and admits students, who are otherwise qualified, or any race, nationality or sex. The school complies with applicable laws with regard to admission, access or treatment of students in its programs or activities. 9/20 Seafarers LOG 17 �School’s In! Classes Resume In Piney Point Students recently returned to the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education (PHC) for classes that resumed Aug. 3. The Piney Point, Maryland school had temporarily halted all courses due to the pandemic. Numerous safeguards are in place at the PHC and its Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship. Social distancing is required throughout the campus, as are face coverings. Hand-sanitizing stations are in place, along with floor markings to help people remain six feet apart whenever possible. Meal times are being staggered so that students and staff have ample room in the dining areas. For now, students are required to remain on campus for the duration of their respective classes. They also must complete a comprehensive medical questionnaire before arrival. The original course schedule for 2020 has been scrapped, but many new classes are underway, and more are being scheduled. Check the SIU website for the latest updates; course dates also are printed on page 17 of this edition of the LOG. The school reopened for classes in early August. Signage and sanitizing stations help keep students and employees protected. Deck department upgraders pause for a snapshot aboard the training vessel Freedom Star. 18 Seafarers LOG September 2020 �Upgraders take part in the one-day BT Revalidation class. Hands-on training remains a prominent part of the coursework at the Paul Hall Center, including during this Able Seafarer-Deck class. Steward-department upgraders spend some time in the classroom. Food preparation has never been safer at the school, thanks in part to extra sanitary gear. Simulator training is a key component of many Paul Hall Center classes. Mariners sharpen their skills during a helicopter fire fighting exercise. Meal times are staggered to help ensure ample room for social distancing. September 2020 Editor’s note: The photos on this page, as well as those on the previous one, were taken during the initial resumption of classes at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, located in Piney Point, Maryland. The Paul Hall Center includes the Joseph Sacco Fire Fighting and Safety School, located on a nearby campus. Seafarers LOG 19 �VOLUME 82, NO. 9 SEPTEMBER 2020 Text “Join” to 97779 To Sign Up for SIU Text Alerts O F F I C I A L P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E S E A F A R E R S I N T E R N AT I O N A L U N I O N AT L A N T I C , G U L F, L A K E S A N D I N L A N D W AT E R S , A F L- C I O Heroic Seafarers Delivered in WWII Editor’s note: This is the fifth installment from a 1951 booklet titled “The Seafarers in World War II.” Penned by the late SIU historian John Bunker, the publication recapped SIU members’ service in the War. More than 1,200 SIU members lost their lives to wartime service in the U.S. Merchant Marine. Earlier installments are available on the SIU website and in print beginning with the May 2020 edition of the LOG. This one picks up with Bunker describing some of the travails of SIU-crewed ships in 1942, including the Waterman vessel SS Beauregard, which spent nearly an entire year on consecutive overseas voyages before returning to the United States. On those ships in the 1942 convoys which had guncrews, the Navy personnel was seldom more than 10 or 12 men at the most, and their armament was usually of popgun caliber. The SIU-manned Alcoa Banner sailed to Russia in convoy PQ-16, being defended by a prodigious battery of five .30-caliber machine guns and a Navy guncrew of two men! This convoy had plenty of use for guns, too, for it was attacked 25 times en route from Iceland. Among the ships it lost was the SIU-crewed Alamar, sunk about the same time as the SS Syros, which blew up when a torpedo nosed into its load of TNT. Massmar Hits Mine En route back from Russia, the Massmar (SIU) struck a mine, along with the John Randolph and the Heffron. Men of this convoy will always be grateful for the heroic work of the French corvette Roselys, which rescued 180 men from sinking ships. There were many other SIU ships on the run to Russia – ships like the Alcoa Rambler, Alcoa Cadet, Topa Topa, and the old Bayou Chico – which saw action aplenty, but it is not possible here to do honor to them all, though they all richly deserve to be equally well remembered. Whatever the ship, their crews shared alike the hazards of this Arctic run and, while 1942 was the peak year for losses in ships and men, there were casualties right up into 1945, with some of the heaviest attacks being launched by the Germans in this last year of the war. The return trip from Russia was hardly less arduous than the run north; for a sunk ship, as far as the Nazis were concerned, meant one less bottom for supplying the Russians, and they let no opportunities go by to bag ships homeward bound from the White Sea. Such was the fate of the SS Puerto Rican (SIU-SUP), which had delivered her freight and was headed back for Iceland early in 1943, with 3,500 tons of ore under hatches. She lost the convoy in a violent storm on March 6, and by the night of March 9 the gales had not abated. The Puerto Rican was proceeding alone against bitter cold wind and freezing spray when, at 10 p.m., she was hit. Loaded deep with ore, the ship sank so fast that there was no chance to launch the boats. Perhaps they couldn’t have launched anyway, for the davits were coated with ice. There wasn’t much chance of a man surviving in such weather, but those who were afloat after the ship went down clung to pieces of wreckage. Several of them climbed aboard a liferaft; others clung to the icy keel of an upturned lifeboat which had been torn form the davits. It was an epic of pure, raw courage by men who would not give up. Bitter-Enders By morning, Bob Howard and George Reilly, ABs, several gunners, AB Robert Kale, an Englishman, Joe Disange and Fireman August Wallenhaupt were still fighting the huge seas and the cold – fighting to live, though there seemed no chance of their ever being found. But courage alone, even for men brave as these, was not enough. One by one they were swept away by the battering seas, till, after two days, only two of them were left. One was dead, frozen with a death grip on the pitching liferaft. The other, Fireman Wallenhaupt, clung to life with a superhuman tenacity. And a miracle (for surely in that wild, tumbling ocean swept by snow squalls and curtained by spray, a miracle it was) rewarded this courageous seaman for his fight. The British destroyer St. Elistin, making a final sweep of the area in its search for the lost Puerto Rican, sighted the raft and its brave occupant. He alone survived his ship – one of many that never came back from the Russian run. Heroes All “A hero,” said the poet Rupert Hughes, “is a man plus.” There were many heroes among men of the SIU during World War II – men who accomplished feats of self-sacrifice; who did acts of courage beyond the ordinary call of duty. Just before midnight, when the 8 to 12 Oiler had called the watch, and the Third Assistant was making the last notation in the engineroom log, a torpedo hit the Angelina amidships, blowing up the starboard boiler, flooding the engine spaces, and putting out all the lights as the dynamos sputter to a stop. The Angelina was soon abandoned, and 43 of the crew crowded into one lifeboat, which threatened momentarily to be smashed against the sinking hulk as they tried to get away. Captain W. S. Goodman and the gunnery officer climbed over the side onto a raft, for the lifeboat was already too full and could not hold them all. Overwhelming Sea Somehow the boat pushed off from the ship without being crushed or capsized, but hardly had the men taken a dozen good pulls at the oars, before the boat broached and a huge comber rolled down onto them The rescue ship Bury and a corvette had responded to the Angelina’s SOS and had picked up the men on the raft before midnight; but it was not until dawn that they spotted the lifeboat, by now with only a handful of survivors still clinging to the grab rails on the bottom. While the corvette dumped oil to windward of the boat, Captain L. E. Brown of the Bury maneuvered his little vessel within a line’s throw of the capsized craft. Captain Brown counted five men on the wallowing lifeboat, but what amazed him was the superhuman exhibit of dogged stamina and courage by one of those sea-beaten five: Gustave Alm, the carpenter. One man would be washed off and then another, but each time this man Alm, by feats of great courage and strength managed to haul them back aboard the lifeboat’s bottom. Precision Seamanship While the rescue ship pitched and rolled, Survivors from an unidentified Allied merchant ship man a lifeboat after their vessel was torpedoed by German submarines in early 1942. There were men such as ABs Tom Crawford and Joseph Squires of the freighter Maiden Creek. They stayed behind on the Maiden Creek to tend the falls and get the lifeboats away when this Waterman ship foundered off Block Island in December of 1942, losing their lives for the safety of their shipmates. And there were men like Seafarer Per Lykke, whose able boathandling that night, through huge waves and gale winds, won from the Navy a commendation for “extraordinary courage and seamanship.” Those who survived owed their lives to Lykke. And not to be forgotten are the seven sailors who manned a lifeboat from the SS John Howard Payne (SUP), risking their lives in dangerous seas to rescue men from an Army bomber forced down in the Pacific. Count as heroes, too, those merchant crew – T. Meredith (SUP) [who] rescued exhausted survivors from the sinking transport Cape San Juan, (and) men who jumped overboard from the SS Edwin. Or the crewmen who manned a gun on the SS Joseph Pulitzer for four days and nights at Gela, Sicily, when the regular Navy gunners were all wounded by a bomb. Yes, they were heroes, these and many more. But if anywhere in the annals of World War II there was “a man plus” it was silent Gustave Alm, carpenter of the SIUmanned steamship Angelina of the Bull Line. Huge seas that were 35 feet high and ran 300 feet from crest to crest had separated the ship from a west-bound convoy from England on the 17th of October, 1942. with the suddenness of a fast express. They saw the mountain of water momentarily just before it hit. “Lookout,” someone yelled, “here’s where we swim.” Rolling hard over, the boat teetered for a moment and then capsized. When the churning comber had swept on, fewer than half of the original 45 still groped for a hold on the upturned craft. For a while they talked a little to each other, calling out names of their shipmates to find out who had been lost. But conversation was brief, for the sea was drubbing them unmercifully. Several men left the boat and swam back to the half-submerged Angelina, hoping to climb aboard and await rescue, but a second torpedo hit the freighter just as they neared its side, sinking the ship and drawing the swimmers down with her as she sank. Back on the upturned lifeboat some of the cold, numbed survivors despaired of rescue but it was Gustave Alm, the carpenter, who urged them to hang on. Indomitable Spirit “Don’t give up,” he kept saying. “Don’t give up. There’s always a chance. Hang on. Hang on a while longer.” During the grueling hours of the night, a destroyer passed within a stone’s throw but no one on the warship saw them or heard their desperate cries. It was then that one of the gunners gave up and drifted away from the boat, but Gus Alm struck out against the pounding seas and hauled the boy back. Captain Brown managed to get alongside the capsized boat. It was a precarious moment – a time for faultless thinking, for a miscue at the wheel or a roll of the Bury at the wrong moment and the survivors in the water would be crushed by the plunging vessel. But Captain Brown knew his ship, and on the lifeboat, Gus Alm summoned up what seemed to be superhuman determination and courage. When they threw him a line from the Bury, he stretched out an arm to get it. Twice the line was thrown and twice it missed, but on the third try Alm grabbed the vital strands of hemp and made them fast around one of the holdrods. Minutes counted now. It was obvious that Alm, strong as he was, could not take care of his battered shipmates much longer. As the big carpenter held one exhausted man on the grab rails, another one was swept off. He would have been lost had not the Bury, with Captain Brown at the helm, darted up so close to the struggling seaman that one of the vessel’s crew reached over the side, grabbed his lifejacket, and dragged him aboard on the crest of a sea. His half-conscious companions being too weak even to know what was transpiring, Alm caught [all the] lines that were thrown to him, securing each one in turn around the chest of a shipmate and freeing the man from his hold on the boat when the Bury was ready to pull him in. Continued on Page 9 � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 2020-present Description An account of the resource Volumes LXXXII of the Seafarers Log and beyond Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource September 2020 Description An account of the resource Headlines: OFFICIALS FROM NAVY LEAGUE, MARAD CALL FOR ADDITIONAL U.S. FLAG TONNAGE SHIPBUILDERS COUNCIL HONORS SEN. SULLIVAN UNION MEETINGS RESUME, SCHOOL REOPENS WORKERS' RIGHTS, U.S. MARITIME CHAMPION U.S. REP JOHN LEWIS PASSES AWAY AT 80 SIU JOBS STAY SECURE ABOARD EMPIRE STATE COMPREHENSIVE JONES ACT STUDY FINDS NO EFFECT ON COST OF LIVING IN HAWAII ANY ATTACK ON THE JONES ACT IS AN ATTACK ON THE PEOPLE OF HAWAII PORT COUNCIL STRONGLY DEFENDS VITAL AMERICAN MARITIME LAW CREDENTIALS APPROVED FOR CANDIDATES TO 25 UNION OFFICES SHBP AWARDS $132,000 IN SCHOLARSHIPS EXECUTIVE BOARD AIMS TO BOOST ACCESS TO ABSENTEE BALLOTS FOR SIU ELECTION 2020 FLU SEASON SIGNALS START OF CRITICAL PERIOD FOR EVERYONE SCHOOL'S IN! Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource September 1, 2020 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol 82, No. 9 http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/8cd73562b191698a13046b3ec8d6640f.pdf 6f5238ed4c025228d7d2f71087fbccf7 PDF Text Text SEPTEMBER 2021 VOLUME 83, NO. 9 O F F I C I A L P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E S E A F A R E R S I N T E R N AT I O N A L U N I O N AT L A N T I C , G U L F, L A K E S A N D I N L A N D W AT E R S , A F L- C I O Labor Movement Loses a Giant Richard L. Trumka 1949-2021 The SIU is mourning the loss of AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka, who unexpectedly passed away Aug. 5. Trumka, 72, led the federation as its top official since 2009. He’s pictured at left and in the foreground of the photo above, right, with President Barack Obama at the 2009 AFL-CIO convention. Page 5. Vaccination Requirements Ramp Up Across Country As the U.S. grapples with COVID-19 variants, many private-sector employers have mandated vaccinations for their respective workers. Numerous unions, including the SIU, support vaccinations themselves but believe they should be a point of negotiation. Pictured below, QE3 Reynaldo Lacayo gets vaccinated in Piney Point, Maryland. Page 3. AB Continues Family Tradition Second-generation Seafarer AB Richard Palacios (right) receives his full book at the hall in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. His dad, AB Fabian Palacios, is at left, while SIU Asst. VP Kris Hopkins is in the middle. USNS John Lewis Christened Page 2 SIU Exec. Board News Pages 4, 6 �President’s Report Remembering Rich Trumka Whether you’re reading this column online or in print, you know that the entire labor movement is mourning the unexpected passing of our friend and leader, AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka. As someone who worked with and knew Rich since the 1970s, I want each of you to know that all of the tributes written and spoken about him are accurate and wellearned. He was one-in-amillion, and I’m blessed to have been not only his colleague, but his friend. If you met Rich even once, you know that when it came to personal energy, he was an 11 on a scale of 1-to-10. For that reason, I hesitate to describe him as rejuvenated following last year’s presidential election, The SIU is mourning the loss of AFLbut there’s no doubt he CIO President Richard Trumka (right) had taken his work and who unexpectedly passed away Aug. his leadership to another 5. Trumka, 72, led the federation as level. He was exceptionits top official since 2009. He was a longtime friend of SIU President Mially fired up about the very real opportunities we chael Sacco (left); the two are pictured above in 2017, during the AFL-CIO have before us for laborconvention in St. Louis. law reform and for growing our movement. There’s a decent chance you saw him on television in recent months, promoting workers’ rights and trade unionism. Be 100 percent certain that those appearances were exclusively about the work at hand, rather than having anything to do with personal publicity. Rich was all about workers and their families. In practical terms, you cannot say that someone is one-in-amillion and then expect our movement to not miss a beat. That’s just not realistic. Throughout the AFL-CIO – from headquarters to the affiliate unions like the SIU, to the state labor federations and central labor councils to individual locals – we all have to step up to help fill that void. It’s a tall order. Nevertheless, I am completely confident in new AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler, who, like Rich, came up through the ranks and earned everything she got. Liz is the one who reminded us that we’re allowed and expected to mourn, but we’re not permitted to slack off. As she said, Rich wouldn’t allow it. Please take the time to read our coverage of Rich, and also know that he absolutely had a special affection for the SIU. Whenever we asked for help or invited him anywhere, he made it happen. I’ve got a framed photo of him in my office with a bunch of our officials playfully grabbing him during the 1999 AFL-CIO convention. Rich signed it, “8 Seafarers against 1 Mine Worker. Seems about right!” Even when he was kidding, his fighting spirit came through. And those odds wouldn’t have been fair, anyway – to us. Rich could overcome any challenge. Rest in peace, my dear friend. You are missed. The official party pose for a photograph at the commissioning ceremony in San Diego for the USNS John Lewis on July 17. (U.S. Navy Photo) Newest Replenishment Oiler Christened The newest ship to enter the Military Sealift Command (MSC) fleet was christened at General Dynamics NASSCO – a union shipyard – on July 17. The fleet replenishment oiler USNS John Lewis, which will carry CIVMARS from the SIU Government Services Division as part of its crew, was celebrated in a ceremony attended by family of the ship’s namesake, the late U.S. Rep. John Lewis. The event marked the first anniversary of Lewis’ death from pancreatic cancer. The christening also saw a bipartisan congressional delegation made up of 30 members including House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-California), Rep Maxine Waters (D-California), Rep. Hakeem Jeffries (D-New York), Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee (D-Texas), Rep. Jackie Speier (D-California), and Rep. Nikema Williams (D-Georgia), Lewis’ successor. Other dignitaries included former Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus; Vice Adm. Ross Myers, commander, Fleet Cyber Command and commander, Tenth Fleet; Vice Adm. Roy Kitchener, commander, Naval Surface Forces; MSC commanding officer Adm. Michael Wettlaufer; and actress and social activist Alfre Woodard Spencer, the ship’s sponsor. Lewis served 17 terms as a congressman and was known as the dean of the Georgia congressional delegation. A civil rights activist, he was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom for his long service in government by then-President Barack Obama in 2011. “How perfect the motto of this ship: unbreakable perseverance,” said Pelosi in her keynote address. “Everyone who sees this ship will be reminded of John’s perseverance…. God truly blessed America with the dedication and leadership of John Lewis.” The 746-foot Lewis is the first of the new John Lewisclass previously known as the TAO(X). This class of oilers has the ability to carry 162,000 barrels of diesel ship fuel, aviation fuel and dry-stores cargo. The upgraded oiler is built with double hulls to protect against oil spills and strengthened cargo and ballast tanks, and will be equipped with basic self-defense capabilities. The Lewisclass of oilers will replace the current Kaiser class fleet replenishment oilers as they age out of the MSC fleet. “As the global maritime environment is increasingly crowded and contested, the John Lewis will continue to support our national security strategy in building partner- Ship’s sponsor Alfre Woodard Spencer christens the USNS John Lewis in San Diego. (U.S. Navy Photo) ships with our friends and allies, and enable Naval forces to rapidly respond to crises, deter adversaries, and maintain forward presence to protect the homeland,” said Wettlaufer. “USNS John Lewis, with current and future ships that make up our combat logistics force, are absolutely fundamental to that mission as they provide fuel, parts, provisions, and mail for Naval forces around the globe.” Six more Lewis-class oilers are on order for the Navy. In July 2016, US Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus that he would name the Lewis-class oilers after prominent civil rights activists and leaders including Harvey Milk, Earl Warren, Sojourner Truth, Lucy Stone and Robert F. Kennedy. “We miss John on this platform, but we will never be without him,” said Woodard Spencer. “May this ship inspire and free the spirit of those who serve on her and those of us on land!” O F F I C I A L P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E S E A F A R E R S I N T E R N AT I O N A L U N I O N AT L A N T I C , G U L F, L A K E S A N D I N L A N D W AT E R S , A F L- C I O Volume 83 Number 9 September 2021 The SIU online: www.seafarers.org The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 1086-4636) is published monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters, AFL-CIO; 5201 Capital Gateway Drive; Camp Springs, MD 20746. Telephone (301) 899-0675. Periodicals postage paid at Southern Maryland 20790-9998. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Capital Gateway Drive, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Communications Director, Jordan Biscardo; Assistant Communications Director & Managing Editor/ Production, Jim Guthrie; Assistant Editor, Nick Merrill; Photographer, Harry Gieske; Administrative Support, Jenny Stokes; Content Curator, Mark Clements. Copyright © 2021 Seafarers International Union, AGLIW. All Rights Reserved. SIU Vessel Hosts Sec. Buttigieg DOT Secretary Pete Buttigieg (right) tours the SIU-crewed Cape Washington July 30 in Baltimore, with SIU Exec. VP Augie Tellez (left). Acting Maritime Administrator Lucinda Lessley is directly behind them. SIU Baltimore Port Agent John Hoskins also was on the scene. The Seafarers International Union engaged an environmentally friendly printer for the production of this newspaper. 2 Seafarers LOG September 2021 �Arbitrator’s Ruling Mandates Vaccinations Other Businesses, DOD Also Begin Requiring Preventive Shots An arbitrator on July 30 ruled in favor of the American Maritime Association’s (AMA) insistence that they can require all mariners sailing aboard the companies’ respective vessels be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. The SIU challenged the AMA’s mandate by demanding expedited arbitration, primarily because they unilaterally imposed it rather than bargain over its effects with the union. AMA companies are signatory to the union’s standard freightship and tanker agreements. Those contracts specify that with these kinds of grievances, “the matter shall be referred to an impartial arbitrator whose decision shall be final and binding,” which means the union cannot appeal the decision. In an Aug. 2 web post, the union said, “While we are disappointed in the arbitrator’s ruling, we aren’t necessarily surprised. Earlier in the week, the U.S. Department of Justice released an ‘opinion letter’ saying there’s nothing in federal law that prevents private-sector employers from requiring vaccines. That is consistent with other court decisions and developments across the country, both in the public and private sectors.” At press time, details about how the AMA vaccine mandate will be implemented were still being worked out. Members are asked to keep an eye on the SIU website. Among other points, the arbitrator said he based his decision on the unique nature of the maritime industry, including the fact that crews live together on the vessels. He cited the danger of the Delta variant, plus other recent legal rulings and opinions that support vaccination mandates. He emphasized that his decision aims to maximize safety, and also noted the complications and costs of having vessels quarantine when positive cases occur aboard ship. He acknowledged the sacrifices of mariners and their important roles as part of the essential workforce. Many other companies – plus the U.S. Defense Department – also have either started enforcing vaccine mandates or informed employees that the requirements are imminent. Among others, the following businesses were requiring vaccines as of early August: Anthem (health insurance), Cisco Systems (tech company), DoorDash (corporate employees), Equinox (gym brand), Facebook, Frontier Airlines, Google, Microsoft, Morgan Stanley, the New York Times, Tyson Foods, Uber (corporate), United Airlines, Walgreens (corporate), Walt Disney, Walmart, and the Washington Post. On Aug. 9, U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin III issued a “memorandum for all Department of Defense employees.” In part, the memo read, “As many of you know, President Biden asked me to consider how and when we might add the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccines to the list of those required for all Service members. So, over the last week, I have consulted closely with the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, the Secretaries of the Military Departments, the Service Chiefs, and medical professionals. I appreciate greatly the advice and counsel they provided. “Based on these consultations and on additional discussions with leaders of the White House COVID Task Force, I want you to know that I will seek the President’s approval to make the vaccines mandatory no later than mid-September, or immediately upon the U.S. Food and Drug Agency (FDA) licensure, whichever comes first,” he continued. “By way of expectation, public reporting suggests the Pfizer-BioNTech FOWT Frankinns Joseph displays his vaccination document after receiving an injection at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, administered by a local health care professional. Labor Board Hearing Officer: Amazon’s Law-Breaking Should Lead to Vote Rerun Amazon’s labor law-breaking during the widely watched unionization vote at its giant Bessemer, Alabama, warehouse earlier this year should lead to a rerun of the Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union’s (RWDSU) election try there, a National Labor Relations Board hearing officer ruled. According to a report by the Press Associates union news service, details of the Aug. 3 decision were not released, but RWDSU President Stuart Appelbaum announced its bottom line. Amazon promptly said it would appeal the ruling to the board’s regional director in Atlanta. That office covers Bessemer and the Birmingham area. “Throughout the NLRB hearing, we heard compelling evidence how Amazon tried to illegally interfere with and intimidate workers as they sought to exercise their right to form a union,” Appelbaum said. “We support the hearing officer’s recommendation the NLRB set aside the election results and direct a new election. As President Biden reminded us earlier this year, the question of whether or not to have September 2021 a union is supposed to be the workers’ decision and not the employer’s. Amazon’s behavior throughout the election process was despicable. Amazon cheated, they got caught, and they are being held accountable.” Press Associates further reported that the RWDSU’s complaint to the NLRB, and evidence at a hearing in May, showed 23 company violations of labor law, including illegal threats to lay off 75% of the 5,600 workers, cut health benefits, and even close the warehouse. The firm, owned by Jeff Bezos, one of the three richest people in the U.S., spent millions of dollars a day on union-busting after the RWDSU’s drive began. The RWDSU also cited Amazon’s successful pressure on outside agencies for aid against the union. In one case, Amazon got Bessemer authorities to shorten traffic light timing at the parking lot exit outside the warehouse so union advocates had less time to approach workers sitting in their cars waiting for the light to change. Additionally, Amazon convinced the Postal Service to put a mail ballot drop vaccine could achieve full FDA licensure early next month.” The secretary added, “To defend this Nation, we need a healthy and ready force. I strongly encourage all DoD military and civilian personnel – as well as contractor personnel – to get vaccinated now and for military Service members to not wait for the mandate. All FDA-authorized COVID19 vaccines are safe and highly effective. They will protect you and your family. They will protect your unit, your ship, and your co-workers. And they will ensure we remain the most lethal and ready force in the world.” During the August membership meeting in Piney Point, Maryland, SIU President Michael Sacco continued encouraging Seafarers to get vaccinated. It’s a position he has stood by since the vaccines received emergency-use authorization. “It’s the safe way – the only way – to be in this industry,” Sacco stated. “I won’t steer you wrong.” As of Aug. 9, nearly 36 million cases of COVID-19 had been reported in the United States since February 2020. Almost 617,000 Americans had died from the coronavirus during that same period. SIU President Michael Sacco, speaking at the August membership meeting in Piney Point, Maryland, encourages Seafarers to get vaccinated against COVID-19. Vaccine mandates are on the way for military personnel, but many from the armed forces already have taken the shots. Here, Spc. Tyler Boyer administers the COVID-19 vaccine at Fort Carson, Colorado, in early August. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Andrew Greenwood) box under a tent, emblazoned with the company logo and erected in the parking lot. That prompted one tweeter replying to the RWDSU’s announcement to wonder how Amazon achieved that feat after Postmaster General Louis DeJoy had yanked thousands of blue mailboxes from mostly Democratic central cities nationwide the year before, especially from majorityminority neighborhoods. The Bessemer workforce is majority Black. Regardless of the ultimate outcome at Bessemer, where the multimillion-dollar company campaign beat the RWDSU, the drive there has set off interest in unionizing among other Amazon workers. Leading the charge: Workers at Ama- zon’s warehouse on Staten Island, New York, where the firm fired worker Christian Smalls, who led a brief lunch-hour walkout last year over company failure to protect workers from the coronavirus. New York Attorney General Letitia “Tish” James is probing whether Amazon broke state labor law by firing Smalls. Amazon also fired fellow Staten Island worker Christian Bryson after he got into a dispute with a non-walkout worker. In December, an NLRB administrative law judge ruled that firing was illegal. The national publicity also prompted the Teamsters, to announce a multi-year plan to unionize the giant warehouse, product distributor and retailer. Seafarers LOG 3 �SIU VP Government Services Nicholas Celona (right) is pictured at an industry event in New York in 2019, with his predecessor: the recently retired SIU VP Kate Hunt. SIU VP Government Services Nicholas Celona (third from right) already has met with numerous CIVMARS, including aboard the USNS Miguel Keith on the West Coast. Among those also pictured are SIU Asst. VP Joe Vincenzo (right) and SIU Government Services Representative Jesse Ruth (second from left). Celona Appointed as SIU VP Gov’t Services Former Port Agent Crespo is Union’s Newest Assistant VP The union’s executive board has announced the appointments of two longtime officials to new positions following the recent retirement of SIU Vice President Government Services Kate Hunt (see story, page 6). Nicholas Celona succeeds Hunt as vice president, while Amancio Crespo fills Celona’s former spot as an assistant vice president. Both Celona and Crespo are well acquainted with the union. Celona is a 1977 graduate of Paul Hall Center Trainee Class 229. Crespo graduated from the trainee program in 1990. Both sailed for several years before coming ashore to work for the union. “My goals are to promote, protect and defend the U.S. Merchant Marine and the SIU Government Services Division, which in turn will help ensure our national security,” Celona said. “We have to make sure that supplies get through to our troops.” Born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, Celona graduated from Lafayette High School in 1976 and soon thereafter found a home with the SIU. After completing the trainee program, he sailed in the engine department until 1982, upgrading several times along the way (most recently to chief electrician). He sailed on vessels operated by Sea-Land, Maritime Overseas, Delta Line, American Hawaii Cruises, Bay Tankers and others. “The sense of adventure from shipping out was life-changing as a young man,” he recalled. “I fell in love with it right away. When I was called ashore to work as an official, I did everything possible to help the membership and our union to grow.” Celona worked as a patrolman in New Orleans from 1983-88 and was involved in multiple inland beefs. He spent 1989 serving as the port agent in Piney Point before what turned out to be a long-term move to the West Coast. Celona was the union’s San Francisco port agent from 1990-94; he became an assistant vice president in 1994. Among other activities, he served as a Newly appointed SIU Asst. VP Amancio Crespo 4 Seafarers LOG delegate on the San Francisco-Alameda Labor Council, secretary-treasurer of the local port council, and a governor-appointed member of the board of directors of the Cow Palace (a popular, multi-purpose arena in Daly City, California). Always politically active, Celona organized the union’s annual Thanksgiving gatherings in San Francisco and Oakland, which ran for 29 straight years before temporarily being derailed due to the pandemic. Those feasts evolved into a Who’s Who of politics, with regular appearances from Kamala Harris, Nancy Pelosi, John Garamendi, Eric Swalwell, Jackie Spier and many others. Based on his extensive work with the military, Celona in 2002 was sworn in as an honorary U.S. Marine, a rarity. He will be based in New Orleans. Crespo sailed for six years, both in the deck and steward departments, and also worked on a shore gang before serving as a patrolman beginning in 1997. A Brooklyn native (he is good-natured about not having the accent), he became the union’s port agent in San Juan, Puerto Rico, in 2005 and has held that post ever since. Crespo played a major role in helping open the new hiring hall in Puerto Rico in 2018, and he also has stepped up on numerous occasions to spearhead local relief efforts following storms that have battered the island territory, including in the aftermath of Hurricane Maria in September 2017. He plays a leading role in the union’s participation in “BookWaves,” a joint effort between the SIU, American Federation of Teachers and Asociación de Maestros de Puerto Rico, among others, to provide free educational reading material to school-age children. He has a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Caribbean University and is a U.S. Army veteran who never misses a chance to promote the union and the maritime industry. “I’m looking forward to continuing to work on behalf of our union members and the industry,” Crespo stated. “It’s all about family – every time I can do something for our members, it’s worthwhile.” SIU Asst. VP Amancio Crespo (kneeling, center) has led the union’s participation in a philanthropic outreach benefiting schoolchildren in Puerto Rico and elsewhere. He’s pictured with Seafarers who also volunteer in the effort. September 2021 �Trumka (left) and SIU President Michael Sacco in 2008 Pictured at a 2012 Maritime Trades Department meeting (from left) are SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey, SIU Exec. VP Augie Tellez, AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka and SIU VP Contracts George Tricker. SIU Mourns Loss of Richard Trumka AFL-CIO President Had ‘Soft Spot for Seafarers’ Somehow, AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka managed to be simultaneously largerthan-life and eminently approachable. Likely due to the former quality, the initial reaction among SIU officials and staff to unofficial news of Trumka’s death on Aug. 5 primarily consisted of disbelief. Trumka’s high-energy personality and regular appearances on television (promoting workers’ right) as recently as that same week seemingly precluded his departure, and there had been no hints of health problems. Unfortunately, confirmation soon followed: Trumka, 72, succumbed to a heart attack while on a camping trip with family. Outpourings of sympathy began the same day, including comments from President Biden, Senate Majority Leader Charles Schumer (D-New York), and fellow labor leaders from throughout the movement. SIU President Michael Sacco enjoyed a genuine friendship with Trumka. “Rich and I worked together for decades, going back to the 1970s, when we were involved in labor disputes in Missouri, Kentucky and Illinois,” Sacco stated. “Throughout his entire career, no one worked harder for America’s working families. “Rich was fearless and down-to-earth, and even though he had plenty of formal education, at his core he remained a working-class union guy and a family man,” Sacco continued. “He never forgot his roots with the Mine Workers. Those of you who were lucky enough to hear Rich give a speech in person know that he commanded a room like few others. His passion and intelligence and foresight always came through loud and clear.” He concluded, “The labor movement that Rich led and loved will move forward with heavy hearts – but we will move forward…. That’s how we honor his legacy.” SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez said, “If you ever heard Rich address a crowd, you immediately knew what this man was about. His passion, fervor and compassion for the working men and women of this country was the hallmark of his being. Little doubt was left as he bared his soul in the struggle for equality both economically and socially. He was truly an American hero. He had a soft spot for the Seafarers going back to his Mine Worker days in the 70s, and many of us got to know him personally. The world has a lost a good man, but there is no doubt at all that his legacy will be carried on by millions.” SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel stated, “With heavy hearts, we learned of the passing of Brother Trumka. Rich was a true leader and inspiration to many. Our heart goes out to Rich’s family as well as the 12 million brothers and sisters in his extended family of the Federation. He will be missed.” President Biden described Trumka as “a dear friend, a great American, and a good man. I will miss him as will the countless workers whose lives he made better, and the labor movement he led with daring vision. As I told his family after we heard the news, Jill and I send our love –today and always.” On the Senate floor the morning of Aug. 5, Schumer said, “The working people of America have lost a fierce warrior, at a time when we needed him most. Just yesterday, Rich was lending his support to the striking miners in Alabama. Following in his father’s footsteps, he worked in the mines. He went to Penn State, earned his law degree – but he didn’t practice, didn’t go to some fancy place, he went right to work for the United Mine Workers, which he led for so many years. “He had in his veins, in every atom of his body, the heart, the thoughts, the needs of the working people of America,” Schumer continued. “He was them. Rich Trumka was the working people of America. He never had any airs, he never put it on, and he cared about his fellow workers so. He was a great leader, and he knew that the labor movement and working people had Longtime friends SIU President Michael Sacco (left) and AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka share a laugh in 2015 before the start of an MTD meeting. September 2021 This photo was taken in 1991 at the Greater St. Louis Area and Vicinity Port Council dinner. Trumka (right) was president of the Mine Workers at that time. He’s with U.S. Air Force Gen. Hansford T. Johnson, one of the other honorees. to expand and be diverse. One of his passions as a leader was immigration reform, which I talked to him about repeatedly, because they were working people, too. No matter where they came from, or what they look like…. We have just lost a giant, and we need him so. We will remember him forever, and his memory will, I know, importune all of us to do even more for the working people of America who Rich Trumka so dearly and deeply loved.” Trumka served as president of the federation since 2009. In 1982, at age 33, he ran on a reform ticket and was elected the youngest president of the United Mine Workers of America (UMWA). There, he led one of the most successful strikes in recent American history against the Pittston Coal Company, which tried to avoid paying into an industry-wide health and pension fund. Trumka was elected AFL-CIO secretarytreasurer in 1995, and held that post until 2009, when he was elected president. His commitment to improving life for working people began early. He grew up in the small coal-mining town of Nemacolin, Pennsylvania. Nearly all the men in his family, including his father and grandfather, were coal miners. Trumka followed them into the mines, working there as he attended Penn State and Villanova University Law School. Acting AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler said, “Rich was a legend, from his early days as president of the United Mine Workers of America to his unparalleled leadership as the voice of America’s labor movement. Rich loved workers. And he knew there was nothing more powerful than workers standing together for a better life. “If you ever watched Rich at a rally or on a picket line, his face would light up with excitement and hope,” she continued. “He never forgot who he was working for. He never forgot who he was fighting for. America’s working people were his guiding light for more than 50 years…. We are not done yet. Rich would never allow it. Now more than ever, we must come together, as one federation, to carry out the mission Rich devoted his life to.” UMWA President Cecil Roberts said Trumka “was more than the leader of the American labor movement, he was an unequaled voice for the workers around the world…. Richard and I were partners in leadership at the UMWA for many years, but we were more than that. He was my brother, he was my friend, he was my confidant.” American Federation of Teachers President Randi Weingarten stated, “Rich Trumka was our brother in the truest sense of the word. His sudden passing is a tremendous loss for the entire labor movement, and for working families across the country. From his first mining job in the late 1960s, to joining the staff of the United Mine Workers of America and eventually becoming president, to his fierce and courageous leadership of the AFL-CIO for more than a decade, Rich fought his entire life for dignity and respect for American workers. He practiced what he preached, and he brought the voices of working people to the forefront of our nation’s consciousness with deep humility and an abiding belief in the power of collective action. President Trumka was a beloved colleague and friend, and his legacy will endure for generations.” Seafarers LOG 5 �‘We are Losing Our Tiger Mother’ Groundbreaking SIU VP Hunt Retires, Caps Dedicated Career The maritime industry proved a natural fit for Kathleen “Kate” Hunt, but that doesn’t mean her career was easy. She played pioneering roles along the way, including service as the first female patrolman for the National Maritime Union (NMU) and the first female member of the SIU executive board. She weathered a rocky stretch (not of her doing) at the NMU and later handled major responsibilities for two SIU-affiliated unions. Hunt happily declared herself “finished with engines, my friend” when describing her decision to retire as vice president of the SIU Government Services Division, effective Aug. 1. She had been a vice president since 2018. “I’ve worked since I was 14 years old,” Hunt said. “I’ve never not worked. But initially, I will be sitting on a beach in Rhode Island, just looking out on the horizon. After that, I’m looking forward to a lot of family time. We’ve got lots of toddlers and babies in my family; I’d like to help my nieces and nephews, and just hang out with them. I’d also like to travel a little when the time is right.” Hunt comes from a maritime family (her father was an NMU port agent, and many other relatives sailed), so it wasn’t shocking that she landed a job with a steamship authority in the 1970s. But her next move – sailing in the deck department of ferries in Cape Cod, Massachusetts, beginning in 1976 – was very uncommon for women in that era. She came ashore as a patrolman four years later and continued serving as an NMU official until that union merged into the SIU in 2001, at which time she wasn’t sure about her future. “God bless (SIU President) Mike Sacco. He let me keep working,” Hunt recalled. “He just wants people that like to work and do their jobs, so I did.” After the merger, Hunt was assigned as a representative for the SIU’s Government Services Division, working with the SIU crews aboard Military Sealift Command vessels, NOAA research vessels and other governmentowned ships. She’d done similar work for the NMU. Hunt also worked as a representative of the Seafarers Entertainment and Allied Trades Union (SEATU), serving members employed in the Northeast while being based at the SIU’s New York-area office. In August 2016, Hunt was appointed by the SIU’s Executive Board to serve as the national director of the United Industrial Workers (UIW). In this capacity, Hunt oversaw dozens of UIW shops in the continental United States and Alaska and in the United States Virgin Islands. She held that post until her appointment (and subsequent reelection in 2020) as a vice president. “Kate is one of the hardest-working officials we’ve ever had,” said SIU President Michael Sacco. “She’s been a tremendous asset to the members, and she did a great job representing them aboard the ships.” “Kate is a complete professional,” said SIU SecretaryTreasurer David Heindel. “Whatever task she took on was handled thoroughly and with the membership’s inter- est in mind. She fought with vigor and usually came out with a win. Fitting into a male-dominated industry never distracted her. If anything, it played to her advantage. I would like to wish her a well-earned retirement and best wishes in her next phase of life. I’m betting she will be following Bruce Springsteen around the country while he’s on tour.” Nicholas Celona, Hunt’s successor as vice president, said, “It’s an honor and a privilege to have known Kate and to have been a colleague. I hope she enjoys her next chapter of life, with fair winds and following seas.” SIU Assistant Vice President Government Services Division Joe Vincenzo stated, “Well done and a welldeserved retirement, Kate. It was a pleasure and privilege working with you over the years on UIW and Government Services contracts, issues and membership services. Enjoy that margarita on the beach!” Capt. Andrew M. Lindey, vessel master aboard the USNS Comfort, included this succinct message when forwarding Hunt’s farewell email to the crew: “We are losing our Tiger Mother.” Capt. Keith A. Walzak of the USNS Grumman described Hunt as “always on our side and at our call.” In a written communication to Hunt, Chief Steward Valerie McCaskill said, “I just wanted to take a moment to thank you for being such an inspiration to the industry and myself. In the short time I was able to spend with you at the NOAA union contract negotiations, I learned so much from you. But the thing that truly captivated me was how you walked in the room with such authority, humility, and grace that commanded presidential respect and admiration from all. I was blown away. I had never seen that before and yet I loved every minute. From that day forward you have changed my perspective on how to represent women in the industry. Own who you are, command respect with humility, and never settle for their best offer but demand they give you what you deserve! Thank you for being such a phenomenally fierce powerhouse!” Looking ahead, Hunt said she has “full faith and confidence that Nick and the team that’s already in place will be member-service oriented and do great things.” She cited the successful resolution of the “gangways up” beef as one of her biggest accomplishments (it involved prolonged restriction to ship during the pandemic), and also commended the work of former SIU Assistant Vice President Government Services Chet Wheeler and counsel Deborah Kleinberg (both are retired) for helping improve shipboard habitability standards. “I think we led the way on that front,” Hunt said. “We were and still are the lead on making sure that the standards aboard the ships are fair and equitable and decent, and that’s also true of the hotels (where CIVMARS stay). You can’t negotiate wages in the federal sector, so it’s working conditions that we always focused on.” She added that while there are some differences in the federal maritime sector as compared to the private sec- In this file photo from 2019, Hunt (center) stands with SIU Government Services Division members aboard the Joshua Humphreys in Norfolk, Virginia. 6 Seafarers LOG Hunt addresses Seafarers at the July membership meeting in Piney Point, Maryland. tor, “Seamen are seamen. And it always makes me happy when I go aboard a ship and you see someone you helped. I’d see guys years later who had redeemed themselves and had a decent career. I was always really proud we helped guys hold onto their jobs and maintain their careers.” Asked what advice she’d give to people entering the industry, Hunt provided a twofold answer. First, she said, “Join the union!” Second, “Just do your job.” Hunt said she will miss her colleagues, including fellow officials, members, and personnel from the government and the military. “I really have been very blessed,” she said. “All I ever wanted to do was be a good shipmate, and I think I’ve been that. I’m really at peace with my decision to retire. My only regret is that it’s been a year since I’ve been on a ship.” Hunt in 2018 became SIU VP Government Services Division. Prior to that, she served as National Director of of one of the SIU’s affiliated organizations, the United Industrial Workers. In photo above, Hunt (left) is pictured with SIU/UIW President Michael Sacco (center) and her UIW National Director successor Karen Horton-Gennette. September 2021 �Crowley Wins Vessel Acquisition Management Pact A recent contract award should mean ongoing job security for SIU members. In late July, SIU-contracted Crowley Maritime announced that it had received a “multi-year, $638 million contract for vessel acquisition management by the U.S. Maritime Administration (MARAD).” The company will assist the agency “in the enhancement of the Ready Reserve Force (RRF), helping reduce the overall age of the fleet and increase ship reliability,” Crowley reported. That means acquiring newer ships – and, after those vessels enter the fleet, Crowley will maintain and operate them for MARAD. “To carry out the contract, Crowley will use a new, proprietary information technology system to assess, research and make purchasing recommendations,” the company noted. “Once the vessels are acquired, Crowley will oversee any required re-flagging, re-classification, modification and maintenance to ensure they are fit for service in compliance with U.S. Coast Guard, American Bureau of Shipping, and Defense Department requirements.” “A successful vessel acquisition management program is important to the U.S. as a maritime nation, the maritime industry and Crowley as we mutually invest in the strength of our nation,” said Mike Golonka, vice president, government ship management in Crowley Solutions. “We want to share our innovative, successful approach to vessel ownership and lifecycle engineering with the U.S. government.” MARAD describes the RRF as “a subset of vessels” within the agency’s National Defense Reserve Fleet “ready to support the rapid worldwide deployment of U.S. The SIU-crewed Cape Wrath (left) and Cape Washington, both operated by Crowley, are pictured in Baltimore. The vessels are part of the Ready Reserve Force. military forces. As a key element of Department of Defense strategic sealift, the RRF primarily supports transport of Army and Marine Corps unit equipment, combat support equipment, and initial resupply during critical surge periods – the period of time before commercial ships can be secured for similar support. The RRF provides nearly 50% of government-owned surge sealift capability and has rightfully been called ‘America’s Sea Power Reliant Partner.’” The program began with a half-dozen vessels in 1977 and now consists of more than 40, most of them roll-on/roll-off ships. RRF ships “are expected to be fully operational within their assigned fiveand 10-day readiness status and then sail to designated loading berths,” according to MARAD. “Prior to being activated, commercial U.S. ship managers provide systems maintenance, equipment repairs, logistics support, activation, manning, and operations management by contract. The RRF is periodically tested by DOD-driven activations of ships for military cargo operations and exercises.” Spotlight on Mariner Health Updated News about Type 1 Diabetes Editor’s note: This article is provided by the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan Medical Department. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease in which immune cells attack and destroy the insulin-producing cells (beta cells) of the pancreas. The loss of insulin leads to the inability to regulate blood sugar levels. Patients are usually treated by insulin-replacement therapy. Type 1 diabetes may occur at any age and in people of every race, shape, and size. In Type 1, the body does not produce insulin. The body breaks down the carbohydrates you eat into blood glucose that will be used for energy. Insulin is a hormone that the body needs in order to get glucose from the bloodstream into the cells of the body. There is no cure for Type 1 diabetes. There is strong evidence that Type 1 happens when an individual with a certain combination of genes comes into contact with a particular environmental influence. Scientist are still working on this theory. September 2021 Remember that in Type 1 diabetes, the immune system is unable to tell the difference between harmful germs and the body’s cells, so the immune system attacks the body’s own insulin-producing beta cells. Studies are underway to identify methods for persuading an improperly functioning immune system to accept the beta cells as part of the body, rather than attacking them. When the pancreatic beta cells (the cells that make insulin) have been destroyed, one solution may be to replace the beta cells with new ones. There are potential obstacles to this approach, though. For example, a patient would require that islets be received from more than one donor. Patients also would have to take immunosuppressant medications for the rest of their lives. Related financial costs can be substantial. Meanwhile, insulin can be delivered by daily multiple injections, insulin pens, and by portable insulin delivery devices called pumps. According to the National Institutes of Health, more than 30 million people in the U.S. have some form of diabetes. Symptoms of diabetes, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, may include frequent urination, thirst, weight loss, numbness or tingling in the hands or feet, fatigue, dry skin, blurry vision, increased infections, and sores that heal slowly. People who have Type 1 diabetes may also experience nausea, vomiting, or stomach pains. Type 1 diabetes symptoms can develop in just a few weeks or months and can be severe. Type 1 diabetes usually starts in childhood or teenage years, but can happen at any age. Seafarers are encouraged to see their respective health care providers for appointments, prescriptions, newest treatments and testing products to help make life easier with diabetes. Healthy Recipe Grilled Grouper with Pesto Drizzle Servings: 25 Ingredients 10 pounds grouper fillet 4 tablespoons Mrs. Dash seasoning 1 tablespoon granulated garlic 1/4 cup smart balance, melted Pesto Recipe: 1 1/2 ounces Toasted pine nuts, or almonds 3 each garlic cloves, minced 1/2 ounce salt 10 1/2 fluid ounces olive oil 3 ounces basil leaves, washed and dried well 2 ounces parsley 2 ounces parmesan cheese, grated To Make Pesto: Place nuts, garlic, half of the salt, and half of the olive oil into a blender or food processor fitted with the blade attachment. Blend to a paste, about 1 minute. Begin adding basil leaves and parsley gradually and blend on and off to incorporate the greens into the emulsion. Add the additional oil gradually until the paste is thoroughly combined. Adjust the seasoning with salt as needed. Add the parmesan cheese and blend just before serving. Pesto should be stored under refrigeration with a layer of oil across the surface. To cook the Fish: Cut the fish into 5 6-oz. filets, season the fish on both sides with the Mrs. Dash and granulated garlic. Grill the fish 1-2 min. on each side on a well-oiled med-high temped grill or in a sautee pan; place in 2-inch hotel pans, drizzle with olive oil and put 1/4 cup water in each pan. Cook in a 325° F oven for 10 min. or until flaky and an internal temp of 145° F is reached.Drizzle the prepared pesto over top of the cooked fish. Serve. Nutrition Information Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 288 Calories; 15g Fat (46.7% calories from fat); 37g Protein; 1g Carbohydrate. Trace Dietary Fiber: 69mg Cholesterol; 360mg Sodium. Exchanges: 0 Grain (Starch); 5 Lean Meat; 0 Vegetable; 2 1/2 Fat. (Provided by Paul Hall Center’s Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship) Seafarers LOG 7 �Mississippi Legislature Backs Jones Act Mississippi’s State House and State Senate recently adopted pro-Jones Act resolutions. The statements are basically identical and read as follows: WHEREAS, Mississippi’s access to over 1,000 miles of the Mississippi River, Gulf Intracoastal Waterway, and the Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway makes it a critical hub in the nation’s transportation system; and WHEREAS, the current global pandemic has demonstrated the critical importance of maintaining resilient domestic industries and transportation services to the citizens and workforce of Mississippi; and WHEREAS, the Merchant Marine Act of 1920, known as the Jones Act and codified in Title 46 of the United States Code, requires that vessels carrying cargo between locations in the United States be owned by American companies, crewed by American mariners, and built in American shipyards; and WHEREAS, America’s ability to project and deploy forces globally, and supply and maintain military installations domestically, depends on the civilian fleet of Jones Act vessels and mariners; and WHEREAS, mariners aboard Jones Act vessels strengthen America’s homeland security as added eyes and ears monitoring the nation’s 95,000 miles of shoreline and 25,000 miles of navigable inland waterways; and WHEREAS, Mississippi is home to 13,460 maritime jobs supported by the Jones Act, the sixth-highest per capita among all states, that generate $728.8 million in labor income; and WHEREAS, maritime industry jobs create ladders of opportunity through high-paying, family-wage careers that offer significant career advancement without generally necessitating advanced formal education and extensive student loans; and WHEREAS, the more than 40,000 vessel-strong Jones Act fleet supports nearly 650,000 family-wage jobs and over $154 billion in economic output nationally and $3.05 billion to the Mississippi economy: NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI, That the House of Representatives affirms its resolute support for the Jones Act and celebrates the centennial anniversary of its passage which has fostered a strong domestic maritime industry that is critical to Mississippi’s and the nation’s economic prosperity and national security. (Editor’s note: The next paragraphs are from the Senate’s version.) NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RE- The Mississippi State Capitol is located in Jackson. SOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Mississippi affirms its resolute support for the Jones Act and celebrates the centennial anniversary of its passage which has fostered a strong domestic maritime industry that is critical to Mississippi’s Defense Expert Cites Urgent Need To Revitalize U.S. Shipbuilding The situation isn’t hopeless, but the United States had better get moving if it wants to reclaim its status as a leading shipbuilder. That’s the conclusion reached by Loren Thompson, a highly regarded national defense expert who runs the non-profit Lexington Institute. Thompson’s commentary appeared on the Forbes website in late July. He began with a quick recap of America’s maritime history, then said that modern-day “U.S. shipbuilding and maritime trades … have virtually collapsed over the last generation. A nation that led the world in commercial shipbuilding at key junctures in its history today builds less than 10 vessels for oceangoing commerce in a typical year. China builds over a thousand such ships each year.” Those weren’t the only sobering statistics offered by Thompson, who holds doctoral and master’s degrees in government from Georgetown University and who has taught at Harvard. “The entire U.S.-registered fleet of oceangoing commercial ships numbers fewer than 200 vessels, out of a global total of 44,000,” he wrote. “And despite trade flows to and from America exceeding a trillion dollars annually – the vast preponderance of which travel by sea – U.S.-registered ships carry barely 1% of that traffic. That is quite a decline from the year I was born, 1951, when the U.S. Merchant Marine transported a third of all global trade.” The writer then pointed out that China possesses the world’s largest fleet of warships (around 350), while the U.S. Navy is “struggling to get above 300…. The Navy’s request for ship construction funds next year envisions building only four combat vessels (out of eight total), a level of effort that if sustained would guarantee Chinese maritime dominance by 2030.” Ironically, he added, the largest exporter of containerized cargo to the U.S. “is a shipping company owned outright by the Chinese government.” Thompson also touched on the shipboard manpower crisis in the U.S. Merchant Marine before returning to the subject of China. “We know that Beijing’s long-term goal 8 Seafarers LOG is to dominate global supply chains for vital industrial goods, so the fact China is outproducing America in large commercial vessels 100-to-1, that it increasingly dominates traffic, and that it is securing control of ports along key trade routes, should have elicited a policy response from Washington,” he wrote. “So far, it has not. Meanwhile, Beijing’s ability to dominate the future naval balance in its own region – the industrial heartland of the new global economy – is increasingly evident.” Thompson identified the decline of domestic shipbuilding as “just one facet of America’s broader deindustrialization, a process that has seen the land of Edison and Westinghouse gradually abandon the production of every industrial product from smartphones to aluminum since the Cold War ended.” For example, he said, the nation has only a single manufacturer of large aircraft. He also criticized former President Ronald Reagan’s decision to eliminate shipbuilding subsidies “without seeking reciprocal action from other nations. That move was never revisited, even though the shipbuilding industry lost 40,000 workers during the Reagan years. Time will tell whether the Biden administration has the sense to revise naval shipbuilding plans, which at the moment could spell doom for some of the surviving U.S. shipyards.” Moreover, Thompson said the Trump administration’s last industrial-base report to Congress correctly stated that the largest contributing factor of declining U.S. competitiveness in global shipbuilding has been state intervention from competitor countries. “In other words,” Thompson wrote, “China and other shipbuilding nations subsidize their industries, at the expense of America’s shipbuilders. So, what is Washington going to do about it?” He concluded by identifying three options: “institute expanded cargo preferences for U.S.-built and -manned vessels, directly subsidize U.S. shipbuilders, or persist in our current dream-like state until the destruction of U.S. maritime supremacy is complete. I’m not holding my breath waiting for an effective policy response from Washington.” and the nation’s economic prosperity and national security; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be furnished to each member of the Mississippi congressional delegation. USA Maritime Coalition Letter To Congress: Reverse ‘Disastrous Reductions in Cargo Preference’ A major American maritime coalition has urged Congress to shore up support for vital cargo preference laws. USA Maritime, to which the SIU is affiliated, sent a letter to U.S. Rep. Peter DeFazio (D-Oregon) in late July. DeFazio chairs the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. The coalition, which also includes vessel operators, other unions, and related associations, asked DeFazio to push for inclusion of cargo preference requirements “in any future infrastructure programs enacted into law. For example, the Biden Administration’s American Jobs Plan represents a significant investment in infrastructure across the United States. By adding U.S. flag cargo preference shipping requirements, Congress will ensure that cargoes shipped for the infrastructure programs authorized and funded through the American Jobs Plan will be carried by American ships with American crews. As such, the program would not only rebuild America’s critical infrastructure, but it would also ensure that American taxpayer dollars benefit working families and their communities by providing cargo to U.S.-flag vessels and jobs to U.S. citizen mariners.” Next, USA Maritime asked Congress to consider “reversing the disastrous reductions in cargo preference that were enacted during the 112th Congress. Those reductions had a catastrophic impact on the U.S.-flag internationally sailing fleet. In the years following the enactment of the Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century Act (MAP-21), the U.S.-flag international fleet saw a reduction in size of over 25%. The commensurate loss of jobs was significant, and the impact on American national security and readiness has been serious.” That law also reversed time-tested agreement among various stakeholders that facilitated reimbursement to the U.S. Maritime Administration for certain costs related to cargo preference. The agreement helped ensure “that the increased U.S.-flag cargo preference shipping requirements will enhance commercial sealift readiness without negative consequences to international aid programs,” the coalition pointed out. “By repealing the changes made by MAP- 21, and potentially increasing cargo preference requirements to 100%, Congress can undo the damage caused by MAP-21 while working to strengthen and expand the U.S.-flag international fleet,” the letter concluded. According to the Maritime Administration, “Just as many other seafaring nations have learned, history has taught us that cargo preference, the reservation of certain cargoes to U.S.-flag ships, is necessary for our national defense and a key driver of domestic and foreign commerce.” There are multiple cargo preference laws and regulations. Collectively, they require that all U.S. military cargo and all cargo generated by the U.S. Export-Import Bank is carried aboard American-flag ships, while at least half of governmentimpelled agricultural cargo and civilian-agencies cargo is transported on those vessels. September 2021 �NMC Releases Notices Covering Email Renewal Exams, REC Appointments Editor’s note: The National Maritime Center posted both of the following notices in July. Seafarers are reminded that they may renew their respective merchant mariner credentials without any loss of valid time on the current documents (meaning the new credential becomes valid upon the original expiration date of the old one). Also, the links mentioned in these notices are available both on the SIU website and on the NMC site. Email Renewal Exam Update The National Maritime Center (NMC) launched a centralized electronic delivery process (via e-mail) for renewal examinations in May 2020. Over 1,200 mariners have completed more than 3,000 examination modules using this process, and the feedback regarding the improved communications and significant reduction in processing time is overwhelmingly positive. The process allows mariners to request, complete, and submit renewal examinations for grading by e-mail. The NMC discourages requests to mail hardcopy examinations. These requests introduce significant delays in processing that are beyond our control. Approval to test (ATT) letters for renewal examinations issued on or after May 1, 2020, include directions on how to obtain an electronic examination, which are also found on the NMC Examinations Page website. E-mail process for renewal examinations: After receiving an ATT letter, mariner requests their examination by e-mail to NMCRenewalExams@uscg.mil or by contacting the NMC Customer Contact Center. If the examination fee was not previously paid, mariner must provide a Pay.Gov payment receipt withthe request. NMC e-mails the mariner an Adobe PDF copy of the examination module(s), a fillable answer sheet for each module, and directions for completing the process. Mariner completes the answer sheet for each module and returns via e-mail in accordance with thedirections. NMC receives the answer sheets, scores them, and notifies the mariner by e-mail of the results, including required retests or re-examinations, routinely within 2 business days. Mariners may be approved for both original and renewal examinations on one ATT letter. They may only use the e-mail process for the renewal examination and must schedule original examinations at a Regional Examination Center (REC). See the REC webpage for instructions on scheduling original examinations. If you have any questions, concerns, or feedback regarding this process, contact the NMC Customer Service Center by emailing IASKNMC@uscg.mil, or by calling 1-888-IASKNMC (427-5662). Continued on Page 19 September & October Membership Meetings Piney Point............ *Tuesday: September 7, Monday: October 4 Algonac...................................Friday: September 10, October 8 Baltimore............................Thursday: September 9, October 7 Guam................................Thursday: September 23, October 21 Honolulu...............................Friday: September 17, October 15 Houston..................Monday: September 13, *Tuesday: October 12 Jacksonville.........................Thursday: September 9, October 7 Joliet....................................Thursday: September 16, October 14 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea “Total Registered” and “Total Shipped” data is cumulative from July 8 - Aug. 9. “Registered on the Beach” data is as of Aug. 9. Total Registered Port All Groups A B Total Shipped C C Trip Reliefs 1 0 2 2 0 2 0 6 6 1 3 0 2 1 0 1 0 0 0 1 28 4 0 1 12 0 7 2 17 27 8 1 2 5 4 1 1 1 6 0 2 101 Jersey City..............................Tuesday: September 7, October 5 Norfolk...................................Friday: September 10, October 8 Oakland..........................Thursday: September 16, October 14 Philadelphia.......................Wednesday: September 8, October 6 Port Everglades......................Thursday: September 16, October 14 San Juan................................Thursday: September 9, October 7 St. Louis...............................Friday: September 17, October 15 Tacoma.............................Friday: September 24, October 22 Wilmington...............................Monday: September 20, October 18 * Piney Point change due to Labor Day observance. * Houston change due to Columbus Day observance Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m September 2021 All Groups B C 35 2 6 37 8 24 11 67 69 57 2 16 39 25 6 1 14 36 8 57 520 14 5 1 16 0 5 4 35 34 9 0 5 18 9 4 1 6 16 1 18 201 4 1 0 6 0 1 0 9 11 8 0 1 10 4 0 0 1 6 1 5 68 A Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 20 1 4 16 5 14 3 42 43 24 0 10 24 12 3 1 7 15 3 24 271 7 2 1 7 0 2 4 26 17 3 0 4 20 3 1 1 3 4 1 10 116 3 0 2 5 0 1 0 6 10 5 1 1 3 0 0 1 1 1 1 0 41 Deck Department 12 1 0 0 1 0 18 8 2 0 9 3 6 3 31 13 30 19 16 4 0 0 5 2 17 13 9 0 3 0 1 0 5 1 15 6 1 1 11 4 192 78 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 8 1 5 4 0 2 4 10 21 11 2 1 17 8 3 1 1 6 1 10 116 1 0 7 11 0 4 2 11 10 5 1 2 11 5 1 3 1 7 2 7 91 1 0 1 3 0 1 1 1 1 2 0 1 8 2 1 0 0 5 1 4 33 Engine Department 4 1 1 0 2 6 8 6 0 1 4 1 4 1 10 8 16 7 5 3 1 1 0 2 9 10 2 4 1 0 3 2 3 0 5 0 2 0 6 4 86 57 1 0 0 2 0 2 1 2 0 1 1 0 5 2 1 0 0 0 0 1 19 4 1 3 7 0 1 3 6 8 1 2 0 11 2 0 0 0 4 0 6 59 7 2 6 8 1 6 6 28 30 16 6 4 20 14 3 1 6 22 2 21 209 1 1 1 13 0 5 4 20 15 3 0 2 19 8 2 3 4 12 5 16 134 1 0 1 3 0 0 0 0 4 3 0 2 6 2 1 0 1 4 1 3 32 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 5 0 3 9 0 5 7 9 14 8 1 1 13 15 2 3 2 14 4 24 139 4 1 1 7 1 2 3 11 14 3 1 8 11 8 0 2 6 3 0 15 101 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 3 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 8 Steward Department 0 2 0 0 2 0 4 3 0 1 2 0 2 1 10 5 12 11 5 1 2 0 1 2 8 6 15 2 0 0 3 2 3 1 7 1 0 0 13 5 89 43 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 4 2 0 1 2 0 2 0 6 14 3 0 1 4 10 0 2 1 1 0 12 61 10 1 1 17 3 8 12 25 35 16 1 4 33 17 2 4 2 19 6 34 250 5 1 1 12 2 3 3 13 16 3 1 7 19 10 0 1 5 7 0 19 128 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 3 1 0 0 4 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 12 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 2 0 0 0 0 1 1 1 1 2 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 4 0 2 15 8 4 0 3 1 2 3 10 25 13 1 0 16 13 0 2 2 13 0 18 134 6 1 1 4 0 0 3 14 55 9 3 2 24 4 0 11 3 8 0 1 149 Entry Department 1 6 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 1 1 4 1 7 1 13 0 8 0 0 0 0 0 9 0 9 0 0 0 0 0 1 3 4 0 0 2 7 10 70 1 0 1 1 1 1 2 2 33 6 1 0 11 3 0 16 0 4 0 3 86 3 0 0 1 0 1 1 4 14 3 0 0 4 4 0 4 1 7 0 1 48 2 1 0 0 0 2 0 4 4 4 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 7 0 4 30 15 5 0 6 3 5 5 15 39 20 1 0 25 26 0 2 3 26 0 31 227 14 3 2 5 0 2 3 16 85 11 0 2 29 10 3 13 3 11 1 8 221 GRAND TOTAL: 541 442 231 137 269 1,009 690 333 Mobile...............................Wednesday: September 15, October 13 New Orleans.....................Tuesday: September 14, October 12 Registered on Beach All Groups A B 377 248 Seafarers LOG 9 �At Sea and Ashore with the SIU SIU VP MEETS WITH PANAMA’S PRESIDENT – SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey (left) is pictured in mid-July with Laurentino Cortizo, the president of Panama. Corgey is a longtime member of the Port of Houston Authority; in that capacity, he and other port commissioners met with Cortizo to discuss general shipping issues, Panama Canal-area crew changes, and vaccinations. TALKING MARITIME WITH CONGRESSMAN – SIU Port Agent Chris Westbrook (left) is pictured with U.S. Rep. Troy Carter (D-Louisiana) at a political gathering July 13 in New Orleans. Carter has been a champion for working families and has committed to working with the maritime industry to maintain and strengthen the U.S. Merchant Marine. NEW CONTRACT SECURED – As reported in last month’s edition, Seafarers have ratified a new three-year contract with Intrepid Personnel and Provisioning covering more than 250 members. The pact includes wage increases and other gains, and also maintains benefits. Seafarers covered by the contract include (large group photo, aboard the ATB Commitment on the West Coast) Capt. George Fleischfresser, CM Michael Walker, 2M Raymond Oglesby, 3M Eugene Narubin, AB Angelo Golden, AB Kyle Baker, Chief Cook David Norris, CE Piotr Kwiatkowski and DDE Charles Regan. (SIU Port Agent Nick Marrone II is third from right.) Also covered by the contract is 2M Mark Gaskill, left in photo below, with SIU Port Agent Joe Zavala in Baytown, Texas. HOLIDAY FEAST ABOARD CALIFORNIA – The Fourth of July menu aboard the Intrepid Personnel and Provisioning tanker truly appears mouthwatering. Pictured from left in the group photo above are Chief Cook Keith Hall, SA Edwin Balcruz and Recertified Steward Fakhruddin Malahi. 10 Seafarers LOG September 2021 �ABOARD USNS FISHER – The U.S. Marine Management vessel has activated in support of a military exercise. Here are a few snapshots, courtesy of Capt. Jennifer L. Senner (an SIU hawsepiper). The Galley gang (photo at left) includes Chief Steward Kevin Hubble Jr., Chief Cook Randy Sudario, ACU William Flores-Gueits, SA Kierra Bradley and SA Florentino Espiritu. OS Ibrahim Ghalib (center photo) is pictured in a rigid-hull inflatable boat while AB Jeremy Cooke and Bosun Algernon Reed (photo at right) take a break from their duties to pose for a photo on deck. At Sea and Ashore with the SIU FULL BOOK IN JAX – AB Anthony Brown (left) is sworn in as a full book member (B seniority) during the July membership meeting in Jacksonville, Florida. SIU Port Agent Ashely Nelson is standing at right. DROPPING IN AT THE HALL – Recertified Steward Clifton Medley (right) and his family stop by the hiring hall in Oakland, California, in late July. READ ALL ABOUT IT – AB Luis Ramos stops by the hall in San Juan, Puerto Rico, to grab copies of the Seafarers LOG for fellow mariners aboard the Perla Del Caribe (TOTE). WITH SEAFARERS IN THE GULF – SIU Port Agent Joe Zavala (left) and SIU Patrolman J.B. Niday (second from right) meet with crews from the USNS Pollux and USNS Regulus aboard the Pollux in Vidor, Texas. Both ships are operated by TOTE Services. FULL BOOKS IN OAKLAND – SAs (from left) Mohsin Saeed and Munasser Sallan receive their full union books. They’re pictured at the hiring hall; SIU Port Agent Nick Marrone II is at right. FULL BOOK IN HOUSTON – Chief Cook Neyda OviedoBermudez (left in photo at left) receives her full B-book at the hiring hall. She’s pictured with SIU Patrolman Kelly Krick. WELCOME ASHORE IN OAKLAND – Bosun Michael Carvalho (left) recently called it a career after more than two decades with the SIU. He’s pictured at the hall with SIU Port Agent Nick Marrone II. Carvalho spent most of his career aboard the Grand Canyon State, though he also briefly sailed in the inland division after signing up with the SIU in 2000. September 2021 Seafarers LOG 11 �Seafarers International Union Directory Inquiring Seafarer Michael Sacco, President Augustin Tellez, Executive Vice President George Tricker, Vice President Contracts This month’s question was answered by members of the most recent class of recertified stewards to graduate from the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Maryland.. Tom Orzechowski, Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Question: Why did you join the SIU and why have you remained with the union? David Heindel, Secretary-Treasurer Dean Corgey, Vice President Gulf Coast Nicholas J. Marrone, Vice President West Coast Joseph T. Soresi, Vice President Atlantic Coast Nicholas Celona, Vice President Government Services HEADQUARTERS 5201 Capital Gateway Drive Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr., Algonac, MI 48001 (810) 794-4988 ANCHORAGE 721 Sesame St., #1C, Anchorage, AK 99503 (907) 561-4988 BALTIMORE 2315 Essex St., Baltimore, MD 21224 (410) 327-4900 GUAM P.O. Box 3328, Hagatna, Guam 96932 Cliffline Office Ctr. Bldg., Suite 103B 422 West O’Brien Dr., Hagatna, Guam 96910 (671) 477-1350 Mario Firme Jr. Recertified Steward My two brothers are SIU members. I joined after high school, in Hawaii. My life is here; I raised my family because of this job. I’m happy to be an SIU member and I enjoy travelling all over the world. Albert Sison Recertified Steward I came to the SIU through the merger with the SIU and NMU. I remained in the organization because of the opportunities they offer. I have been blessed ever since I’ve been given the opportunity. Dante Cruz Recertified Steward Before I became an SIU member, I was sailing foreign flag. There is no comparison. The SIU changed my way of life and gave me a better life, financially and physically. I’ve been a member of the SIU for almost 30 years and I’m still going strong. Edwin Bonefont Recertified Steward I joined the SIU because it is a family tradition, and I remained with the union because it has done a lot for me and my family during all these years. Kenneth Greenidge Recertified Steward My father was NMU. He died when I was 12 or 13, but I saw his success and was intrigued. Joining the SIU was a blessing. It saved my life, and I’m so grateful. I’ve been able to help other people get in, too. Marlon Battad Recertified Steward I joined the SIU because I wanted a job that can provide me and my family with the finances we need to support us. After a few years in the industry, I realized it wasn’t just providing financially but also offering a career that I want to do for the rest of my life. Jatniel “Bam Bam” Aguilera Recertified Steward I joined the SIU because I needed change in my life for the better. I remain in the union because I see many benefits, including education, a pension, vacation checks and, most important, jobs. I feel so proud to be part of this union. Francisco Madsen Recertified Steward When I started, I said to myself, I can do this job for maybe one or two years. Well, here I am, all these years later. The SIU changed my life. It has been a blessing for me and my family, and it has allowed me to see the world. HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St., Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 625 N. York St., Houston, TX 77003 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 5100 Belfort Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32256 (904) 281-2622 JERSEY CITY 104 Broadway, Jersey City, NJ 07306 (201) 434-6000 JOLIET 10 East Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432 (815) 723-8002 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605 (251) 478-0916 NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 NORFOLK 115 Third St., Norfolk, VA 23510 (757) 622-1892 OAKLAND 1121 7th St., Oakland, CA 94607 (510) 444-2360 PHILADELPHIA 2604 S. 4 St., Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT 45353 St. George’s Avenue, Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 1221 S. Andrews Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 522-7984 Pic From The Past The SIU-crewed Cities Service Norfolk docks in Linden, New Jersey, in the summer of 1973. SAN JUAN 659 Hill Side St., Summit Hills San Juan, PR 00920 (787) 721-4033 ST. LOUIS/ALTON 4581 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 TACOMA 3411 South Union Ave., Tacoma, WA 98409 (253) 272-7774 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave., Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4001/4002 12 Seafarers LOG If anyone has a vintage union-related photograph he or she would like to share with other Seafarers LOG readers, please send it to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Capital Gateway Drive, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Photographs will be returned, if so requested. High-resolution digital images may be sent to webmaster@seafarers.org September 2021 �Welcome Ashore Each month, the Seafarers LOG pays tribute to the SIU members who have devoted their working lives to sailing aboard U.S.-flag vessels on the deep seas, inland waterways or Great Lakes. Listed below are brief biographical sketches of those members who recently retired from the union. The brothers and sisters of the SIU thank those members for a job well done and wish them happiness and good health in the days ahead. DEEP SEA CYNTHIA ADAMSON Sister Cynthia Adamson, 67, joined the Seafarers International Union in 1993, initially sailing aboard the Independence. She upgraded at the Piney Point school on multiple occasions and shipped in the steward department. Sister Adamson’s final vessel was the Coast Range. She is a resident of Warrenton, Oregon. JOHN AGUGLIARO Brother John Agugliaro, 62, began sailing with the SIU in 1979. A steward department member, he first shipped on the Seattle. Brother Agugliaro upgraded his skills at the Paul Hall Center on multiple occasions. He last sailed on the Courier and lives in Melbourne, Florida. MICHAEL ALATAN Brother Michael Alatan, 71, embarked on his career with the Seafarers in 1989, initially sailing on the Independence. He was a steward department member and last shipped aboard the SBX in 2015. Brother Alatan resides in Honolulu. shipping aboard the USNS H.H. Hess. He was a deck department member and upgraded at the Piney Point school on several occasions. Brother Davis last sailed on the Maersk Iowa and resides in Chesapeake, Virginia. CHRISTOPHER D’ANDREA Brother Christopher D’Andrea, 72, started his career with the Seafarers in 2003 and first shipped aboard the Grand Canyon State. He sailed in the steward department and upgraded on multiple occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother D’Andrea’s final vessel was the Maersk Kentucky. He lives in New Smyrna Beach, Florida. WAYNE GREEN Brother Wayne Green, 65, signed on with the SIU in 1990. He initially sailed aboard the Sealift Antarctic and was a deck department member. Brother Green upgraded at the Piney Point school on numerous occasions. He most recently shipped on the Pacific Collector and is a resident of Rosburg, Washington. MOHAMED JEBOKJI EDYSON CHANIAGO Brother Edyson Chaniago, 65, embarked on his career with the Seafarers in 1991, initially sailing on the Independence. He was a member of the steward department and upgraded at the Piney Point school on numerous occasions. Brother Chaniago last shipped on the Palmetto State and makes his home in Houston. ANGEL CORCHADO Brother Angel Corchado, 63, joined the union in 1991 when he sailed on the USNS Kane. He sailed in the steward department and upgraded at the Piney Point school on multiple occasions. Brother Corchado most recently shipped aboard the Maersk Chicago, and settled in Puerto Rico. JONATHAN DAVIS Brother Jonathan Davis, 69, signed on with the SIU in 1990, initially September 2021 Brother Mohamed Jebokji, 65, joined the SIU in 2003 when he sailed on the Cleveland. He sailed in the deck department and upgraded at the Paul Hal Center on multiple occasions. Brother Jebokji last shipped on the Overseas New York and makes his home in Groves, Texas. DOUGLAS MCLAUGHLIN Brother Douglas McLaughlin, 70, signed on with the union in 2009, initially shipping on the John Boland. He sailed in the engine department and upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center. Brother McLaughlin last shipped aboard the Cape Mohican. He lives in South Lake Tahoe, California. she upgraded at the Piney Point school on numerous occasions. Sister McCluskey’s first vessel was the Maunawili; her last, the Navigator. She is a resident of Honolulu. CHARLENE MEDEIROS Sister Charlene Medeiros, 71, joined the Seafarers International Union in 1995. She was a steward department member and first shipped on the Independence. Sister Medeiros continued to sail on the same vessel for the duration of her career. She calls Hemet, California, home. ROMEL REYES Brother Romel Reyes, 65, joined the union in 1999 and first sailed aboard the McDonnell. He was a member of the engine department and upgraded at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center on numerous occasions. Brother Reyes last shipped on the American Phoenix. He lives in Palm Beach, Florida. BENJAMIN SANDOVAL Brother Benjamin Sandoval, 68, began his career with the SIU in 1990 when he sailed aboard the Independence. A deck department member, he upgraded at the Piney Point school on multiple occasions. Brother Sandoval most recently shipped aboard the Overseas Boston. He resides in Schertz, Texas. CASSIE TOURERE Sister Cassie Tourere, 70, embarked on her career with the SIU in 1989. She first sailed on the USNS Lynch and shipped in the steward department. Sister Tourere upgraded at the Paul Hall Center in 1991. She concluded her career on the Paul Buck and lives in Port Allen, Louisiana. GREAT LAKES LYNN MCCLUSKEY GARY JOHNSTON Sister Lynn McCluskey, 65, donned the SIU colors in 1980. A member of the steward department, Brother Gary Johnston, 65, joined the Seafarers in 1977. He initially shipped on the A Guthrie and sailed in both the deck and engine departments. Brother Johnston upgraded on numerous occasions at the Piney Point school. He last shipped on the John Boland and resides in Duluth, Minnesota. KELLY NEUROHR Brother Kelly Neurohr, 62, signed on with the union in 1995 when he sailed with Upper Lakes Barge Lines. He shipped in both the deck and engine departments. Brother Neurohr was most recently employed by Vanenkevort Tug and Barge. He calls Cornell, Michigan, home. ALBERT RATLIFF Brother Albert Ratliff, 65, donned the SIU colors in 1977. He primarily sailed in the engine department and upgraded at the Paul Hall Center in 1981. Brother Ratliff’s first vessel was the Columbia; his last, the Sam Laud. He lives in Taylor, Michigan. INLAND MIRCEA JIGAROV Brother Mircea Jigarov, 63, joined the Seafarers in 1990. He was first employed by McAllister Towing of Philadelphia and worked in the deck department. Brother Jigarov upgraded at the Paul Hall Center on numerous occasions. He last worked for Moran Towing of Philadelphia and resides in Dover, Delaware. HAYWARD LOWERY Brother Hayward Lowery, 69, signed on with the union in 1975. He sailed in the deck department and worked for Dravo Basic Materials for his entire career. Brother Lowery makes his home in Honoraville, Alabama. JAMES NIGRO Brother James Nigro, 62, began sailing with the Seafarers in 1976. He was employed by G&H Towing for the duration of his career and was a member of the engine department. Brother Nigro resides in Friendswood, Texas. RANDALL BRINZA HERBERT O’NEAL Brother Randall Brinza, 64, began sailing with the union in 1998 when he shipped with OSG Ship Management. He worked in the deck department and upgraded often at the unionaffiliated Piney Point school. Brother Brinza’s final vessel was the Courage. He is a resident of Pensacola, Florida. Brother Herbert O’Neal, 67, began sailing with the union in 2007. A deck department member, he upgraded at the Paul Hall Center in 2014. Brother O’Neal was employed by Express Marine for the duration of his career. He calls Bayboro, North Carolina, home. MICHAEL GETCHELL STEVEN SEARS Brother Michael Getchell, 65, embarked on his career with the SIU in 1978. A deck department member, he was employed by Crowley Towing and Transportation for most of his career. Brother Getchell upgraded at the Paul Hall Center in 1998. He makes his home in Jacksonville, Florida. Brother Steven Sears, 62, joined the SIU in 1979, initially working for Dixie Carriers. He upgraded at the Paul Hall Center on numerous occasions and was a member of the deck department. Brother Sears most recently sailed with Crowley Towing and Transportation. He settled in Seabrook, New Hampshire. HECTOR GUZMAN JOSEPH WALKER Brother Hector Guzman, 55, joined the Seafarers International Union in 1993 when he sailed with Crowley Puerto Rico Services. He was a member of the deck department and upgraded at the Piney Point school on multiple occasions. Brother Guzman was last employed by Crowley Towing and Transportation and lives in Puerto Rico. Brother Joseph Walker, 65, donned the SIU colors in 2002, initially sailing aboard the Coastal Reliance. He shipped in the deck department and upgraded at the Piney Point school on numerous occasions. Brother Walker’s last vessel was the Pride. He makes his home in Old Orchard Beach, Maine. Seafarers LOG 13 �Final Departures DEEP SEA RICKIE BURGESS Pensioner Rickie Burgess, 67, passed away June 16. He began sailing with the union in 1970 when he worked for Michigan Tankers. A deck department member, Brother Burgess last sailed aboard the Cape Island in 2009. He retired later that year and settled in Tacoma, Washington. ELIZABETH COSS Pensioner Elizabeth Coss, 90, died June 4. She became a member of the SIU in 1996, initially sailing aboard the McDonnell. Sister Coss was a steward department member. She last shipped on the USNS Bowditch before retiring in 2002. Sister Coss made her home in New Lenox, Illinois. JAMES DAVID Pensioner James David, 82, died March 8. He signed on with the union in 1963 and primarily sailed in the deck department. Brother David first shipped on the La Salle. He concluded his career on the Long Island and went on pension in 2006. Brother David was a resident of Chambersburg, Pennsylvania. RAFAEL DURAN Pensioner Rafael Duran, 90, passed away July 10. He began his career with the SIU in 1960. Brother Duran’s first vessel was the Seatrain Savanna. He sailed in the engine department and last shipped on the Courier. Brother Duran became a pensioner in 2013 and resided in Kenner, Louisiana. OLIFIDIO ESQUIVEL Pensioner Olifidio Esquivel, 93, died July 9. He started shipping with the SIU in 1948 and first sailed on the Steel Fabricator. A steward department member, Brother Esquivel concluded his career working with OMI. He retired in 1989 and lived in Wharton, Texas. CARROL HEICK Pensioner Carrol Heick, 70, passed away June 18. He joined the Seafarers in 1969 and sailed in the deck 14 Seafarers LOG department. Brother Heick’s first vessel was the Western Clipper; his last, the Explorer. He became a pensioner in 2015 and called San Pedro, California, home. THOMAS HERBERT Pensioner Thomas Herbert, 69, died July 7. He joined the SIU in 1973 when he sailed aboard the Van Defender. Brother Herbert sailed in the engine department. He last shipped on the Quality and retired in 2017. Brother Herbert lived in Melbourne, Florida. SHAWN IVERSEN Sister Shawn Iversen, 62, passed away July 21. She signed on with the Seafarers in 2010, initially sailing aboard the USNS Loyal. Sister Iversen was a deck department member. She most recently shipped on the Magnolia State in 2018 and made her home in Clinton, New York. HENRY OCULAM Brother Henry Oculam, 60, died May 25. Born in the Philippines, he began his career with the SIU in 2008. Sailing in the deck department, he first shipped on the Presque Isle. Brother Oculam’s final vessel was the Overseas Texas City. He resided in Pearland, Texas. SIMA PADILLA Pensioner Sima Padilla, 93, passed away July 1. He donned the SIU colors in 1967 when he sailed on the Sacramento. Brother Padilla worked in the engine department and concluded his career aboard the Shining Star. He retired in 1994 and lived in Puerto Rico. TED THOMPSON Brother Ted Thompson, 50, died May 10. He started his career with the SIU in 2018 when he sailed aboard the National Glory. Brother Thompson worked in both the deck and steward departments. He last shipped with Crowley Towing and Transportation and resided in Lake Charles, Louisiana. WILLIE TOOMER Pensioner Willie Toomer, 83, passed away May 26. He joined the union in 1995 and first sailed on the Cape Breton. Brother Toomer was a steward department member and last worked aboard the Lightning in 2008. He went on pension the following year and resided in Sun City, California. RAFAEL TORO Pensioner Rafael Toro, 79, has passed away. He began shipping with the SIU in 1962 when he sailed aboard the Anton Brunn. Brother Toro was a steward department member. He retired in 1992 after concluding his career on the Long Lines. Brother Toro was a Miami resident. ANTONINO UDAN Pensioner Antonino Udan, 79, died May 8. He donned the SIU colors in 1983 and initially sailed aboard the Constitution. Brother Udan sailed in the deck department and concluded his career aboard the Pacific. He went on pension in 2006 and was a resident of Waipahu, Hawaii. STEPHEN VALENCIA Pensioner Santos Pastoriza, 78, died November 26. He joined the Seafarers in 1964, initially shipping on the Commander. Brother Pastoriza sailed in the engine department and last shipped on the Santa Clara. He became a pensioner in 2008 and settled in Staten Island, New York. Brother Stephen Valencia, 67, has passed away. A steward department member, he joined the SIU in 1978 when he sailed aboard the Santa Magdelena. Brother Valencia’s last ship was the Lurline. He made his home in Honolulu. ROBERT PIMENTEL RICHARD WILLIAMS SANTOS PASTORIZA Pensioner Robert Pimentel, 73, passed away May 31. After signing on with the union in 1966, he first sailed on the Jefferson City. Brother Pimentel was a steward department member and last worked aboard the Manulani. He went on pension in 2012 and resided in San Francisco. Pensioner Richard Williams, 95, died July 9. He embarked on his career with the Seafarers in 1951 when he shipped with SC Loveland. Brother Williams was a member of the steward department. He last shipped on the President Polk before retiring in 1990. Brother Williams lived in Saint Albans, New York. GREAT LAKES JAMES REILLY Pensioner James Reilly, 73, passed away July 12. He signed on with the union in 1970 and sailed in the engine department. Brother Reilly first shipped with Inland Lakes Management. He last sailed aboard the American Mariner and went on pension in 2006. Brother Reilly was a resident of Alpena, Michigan. INLAND JOEL ANSOTIGUE Pensioner Joel Ansotigue, 78, died June 29. He signed on with the SIU in 1978. A deck department member, he was employed by Mariner Towing for his entire career. Brother Ansotigue retired in 2009 and resided in Tampa, Florida. BURTON BAXTER Pensioner Burton Baxter, 82, passed away June 30. He joined the Seafarers in 1965 when he worked for Higman Barge Lines. Brother Baxter sailed in the deck department and remained with the same company for the majority of his career. He retired in 2002 and called Kountze, Texas, home. CHARLES DOUGHERTY Pensioner Charles Dougherty 95, died June 11. He signed on with the SIU in 1956. A deck department member, Brother Dougherty worked for McAllister Towing of Baltimore for most of his career. He became a pensioner in 1984 and lived in Glen Burnie, Maryland. ment member, Brother Medina last worked for Crowley Towing and Transportation. He went on pension in 2017 and lived in Ruston, Louisiana. RICHARD ROSSER Pensioner Richard Rosser, 67, died June 13. He joined the union in 1974 when he sailed with Crescent Towing and Salvage. Brother Rosser was a member of the deck department and worked for the same company for the majority of his career. He retired in 2007 and settled in Belle Chase, Louisiana. FRANK SMITHWICK Pensioner Frank Smithwick, 89, passed away July 6. He signed on with the SIU in 1975. Brother Smithwick sailed in the deck department and was employed by Interstate Oil for the duration of his career. He became a pensioner in 2003 and was a resident of Floral City, Florida. NMU BASIL WALDRON Pensioner Basil Waldron, 86, passed away June 16. He sailed with the NMU prior to the 2001 NMU/SIU merger. Brother Waldron sailed in the steward department. He last shipped aboard the Maersk Kentucky and retired in 2010. Brother Waldron was a resident of Jacksonville, Florida. In addition to the foregoing individuals, the following union members have also passed away. Insufficient information was available to develop summaries of their respective careers. NAME AGE Rahman, Sadick Shavers, Willie Spates, Paul Verdejo, Carmelo 100 93 85 99 DOD 06/30/2021 06/22/2021 06/25/2021 06/06/2021 STEVEN MEDINA Pensioner Steven Medina 64, passed away May 17. He began his career with the union in 1991, initially sailing aboard the USNS Adventurous. A deck depart- September 2021 �Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings HOUSTON (USS Transport), March 28 – Chairman Carlos Arauz, Secretary Alexander Cordero, Educational Director Jorge Lawrence, Deck Delegate Eugene Edwards, Engine Delegate Olympia Harley, Steward Delegate Vidal Vallesteros. Chairman reminded crew to stay on top of documents and to keep house clean. Secretary and educational director encouraged members to upgrade at the union-affiliated Piney Point school. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew reviewed contract and gave thanks to the steward department for a job well done. The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted. Ships’ minutes first are reviewed by the union’s contract department. Those issues requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the union upon receipt of the ships’ minutes. The minutes are then forwarded to the Seafarers LOG for publication. deck and steward departments for a job well done. Ship sailing smoothly as reported by secretary. Fresh food provisions will be delivered upon arrival or shortly after. Educational director advised members to upgrade at the Piney Point school and to keep documents current. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested an increase in vacation days. Members asked for company’s response for restrictions to ship and mobile COVID-19 vaccinations. MAERSK OHIO (Maersk Line, Limited), April 19 – Chairman Nathaniel Sherrill, Secretary Emie Aguinaldo, Educational Director Angel Hernandez, Engine Delegate Marquez Fields. Issue with Wi-Fi still ongoing. Educational director urged members to attend upgrading courses at the Paul Hall Center and to donate to Seafarers Political Activities Donation (SPAD), the union’s voluntary political action fund. Engine delegate reiterated the importance of drinking lots of water for proper hydration. No beefs or disputed OT reported. MAERSK OHIO (Maersk Line, Limited), May 27 – Chairman James Joyce, Secretary Emie Aguinaldo, Educational Director Joel Bell, Engine Delegate Christopher Sykes, Steward Delegate Michele Woodley. Chairman thanked crew for a safe voyage. Educational director recommended members upgrade at the Paull Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, located in Piney Point, Maryland. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members requested a big-screen TV and DVD player for crew lounge and asked for new refrigerators. Crew mentioned the difficulty of receiving packages during ship restrictions. AMERICAN PHOENIX (Phoenix Crew Management), April 25 – Chairman Raymond Nowak, Secretary Johnnie McGill, Educational Director Timothy Hetz, Deck Delegate Edward Gavagan, Engine Delegate Brandon Hickman, Steward Delegate Luis Mejia. Oven installed but still lacking a commercial heavyduty griddle. Chairman thanked AMERICAN PHOENIX (Phoenix Crew Management), May 30 – Chairman Charles Hill, Secretary Johnnie McGill, Educational Director Kenneth Cabrera, Deck Delegate Edward Gavagan, Engine Delegate Brandon Hickman. Chairman reminded members that all beefs should be handled within the union and stressed the importance of membership meeting attendance. Smoothsailing ship per secretary. Crew change scheduled for June 10. Educational director encouraged members to upgrade at the Piney Point school and discussed SIU/ Seabulk contract. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Overtime not currently paid to steward department for handling of food waste. Food waste garbage is traditionally designated for deck department overtime. Crew requested increases in pay and vacation time. Members asked for overtime for laundry and union meetings. Next port: Port Everglades, Florida. Secretary Alba Ayala, Educational Director Guiomar Rancel. New fans distributed throughout staterooms. Chairman thanked crew for working safely. He praised the steward department for good service, despite a low budget. Chairman commended members for keeping the ship in great shape. Educational director reminded crew of the long-term benefits that come with upgrading at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members requested better Wi-Fi coverage, an increase in vacation benefits, an increase in health benefits, and a cost-of-living pay increase. MAERSK MICHIGAN (Maersk Line, Limited), June 5 – Chairman Rudy Harjanto, Secretary Gerard Cox, Educational Director Walden Galacgac, Deck Delegate Fernando Haber, Engine Delegate Fontanos Ellison, Steward Delegate Hyeyoung Forrer. Chairman thanked all members aboard ship. He discussed document renewals and encouraged everyone to upgrade as soon as possible. Secretary praised GVA for doing an outstanding job. Educational director advised members to check online for upgrading courses at the Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew discussed room inspections and requested new linen, new vacuums and raises in pay. Members asked that Wi-Fi be accessible for longer than four hours per day per person. AMERICAN PRIDE (Intrepid Personnel and Provisioning), June 20 – Chairman Felsher Beasley, Secretary Detrell Lambey, Educational Director Charlie Wescott, Steward Delegate Ramon Sarmiento. Chairman discussed new jobs and urged crew to stay hydrated while working in warm weather. Educational director recommended members upgrade at the Piney Point school and keep up with documents. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested same internet access that is currently offered to officers. Next port: Port Arthur, Texas. MAERSK COLUMBUS (Maersk Line, Limited), June 13 – Chairman Basil D’Souza, JEAN ANNE (PASHA), June 20 – Chairman Thomas Johnson, Secretary Samuel Sinclair. Educational director reminded crew to upgrade their skills at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, located in Piney Point, Maryland. Members requested pension increases, emergency access to Seafarers Money Purchase Pension Plan, fewer physicals and a decrease of sea time required for retirement. Vote of thanks given to steward department for all the great meals. GLOBAL SENTINEL (Subcom, LLC), June 27 – Chairman Lee Hardman, Secretary Joshua Hinton, Educational Director Nicolae Marinescu, Deck Delegate Sanyboy Whiting, Engine Delegate Christopher Brown, Steward Delegate Albert Hermoso. Members who were restricted to ships last summer were reminded to keep up with redlined overtime sheets and turn them into the hall. Chairman stressed the importance for each sailor to maintain their ship restriction documentation as the appeal process with MSC is ongoing. Crew was urged to stay on top of their documents and to never join a vessel without shipping documents in hand. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman encouraged everyone to read the Seafarers LOG in order to be familiar with pertinent SIU information. Members requested new books for library. Next port: Honolulu. MAERSK OHIO (Maersk Line, Limited), July 5 – Chairman Kenneth Greenidge. Chairman thanked crew for a good trip. Educational director advised members to attend upgrading courses at the union-affiliated Piney Point school. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members requested new shower curtains, new mattresses and linen, a smoker and a bigger food budget. Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The Constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership’s money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the secretary-treasurer. A yearly finance committee of rank-and-file members, elected by the membership, each year examines the finances of the union and reports fully their findings and recommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District are administered in accordance with the provisions of various trust fund agreements. All these agreements specify that the trustees in charge of these funds shall equally consist of union and management representatives and their alternates. All expenditures and disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval by a majority of the trustees. All trust fund financial records are available at the headquarters of the various trust funds. SHIPPING RIGHTS. A member’s shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively by contracts between the union and the employers. Members should get to know their shipping rights. Copies of these contracts are posted and available in all union halls. If members believe there have been violations of their shipping or seniority rights as contained in the contracts between the union and the employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified mail, return receipt September 2021 requested. The proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Capital Gateway Drive Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers Appeals Board. CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU contracts are available in all SIU halls. These contracts specify the wages and conditions under which an SIU member works and lives aboard a ship or boat. Members should know their contract rights, as well as their obligations, such as filing for overtime (OT) on the proper sheets and in the proper manner. If, at any time, a member believes that an SIU patrolman or other union official fails to protect their contractual rights properly, he or she should contact the nearest SIU port agent. EDITORIAL POLICY — THE SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful to the union or its collective membership. This established policy has been reaffirmed by membership action at the September 1960 meetings in all constitutional ports. The responsibility for Seafarers LOG policy is vested in an editorial board which consists of the executive board of the union. The executive board may delegate, from among its ranks, one individual to carry out this responsibility. PAYMENT OF MONIES. No monies are to be paid to anyone in any official capacity in the SIU unless an official union receipt is given for same. Under no circumstances should any member pay any money for any reason unless he is given such receipt. In the event anyone attempts to require any such payment be made without supplying a receipt, or if a member is required to make a payment and is given an official receipt, but feels that he or she should not have been required to make such payment, this should immediately be reported to union headquarters. CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS. Copies of the SIU Constitution are available in all union halls. All members should obtain copies of this constitution so as to familiarize themselves with its contents. Any time a member feels any other member or officer is attempting to deprive him or her of any constitutional right or obligation by any methods, such as dealing with charges, trials, etc., as well as all other details, the member so affected should immediately notify headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU Constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Consequently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION (SPAD). SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and purposes including, but not limited to, furthering the political, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and furthering of the American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect and further his or her economic, political and social interests, and American trade union concepts. NOTIFYING THE UNION — If at any time a member feels that any of the above rights have been violated, or that he or she has been denied the constitutional right of access to union records or information, the member should immediately notify SIU President Michael Sacco at headquarters by certified mail, return receipt requested. The address is: Michael Sacco, President Seafarers International Union 5201 Capital Gateway Drive Camp Springs, MD 20746 Seafarers LOG 15 �Paul Hall Center Upgrading Course Dates The following is a list of courses that currently are scheduled to be held at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Maryland during the next several months. More courses may be added. Course additions and cancellations are subject to change due to COVID-19 protocols. All programs are geared toward improving the job skills of Seafarers and promoting the American maritime industry. Seafarers who have any questions regarding the upgrading courses offered at the Paul Hall Center may call the admissions office at (301) 994-0010. Title of Course Start Date Date of Completion Gap Closing Courses MSC Storekeeper Basic September 13 October 1 MSC Supply Configuration Management October 4 October 15 MSC Ship Clip October 18 October 29 Deck Department Upgrading Courses Able Seafarer-Deck September 27 November 15 October 15 December 3 Lifeboat/Water Survival September 27 October 25 November 22 October 8 November 5 December 3 RFPNW November 15 December 3 Celestial Navigation November 15 December 10 Leadership and Management Skills December 13 December 17 Title of Course Start Date Date of Completion Safety/Open Upgrading Courses Basic Training Revalidation October 22 November 15 December 3 December 10 October 22 November 15 December 3 December 10 Basic Training/Adv. Firefighting Revalidation October 25 October 29 Government Vessels September 20 October 4 October 25 November 1 November 15 December 13 September 24 October 8 October 29 November 5 November 19 December 17 Tank Ship DL September 20 September 24 Tank Ship Familiarization DL October 18 October 22 Tank Ship Familiarization LG September 27 December 13 October 1 December 17 Engine Department Upgrading Courses FOWT September 20 October 25 October 15 November 19 Welding October 25 November 12 Engineroom Resource Management December 6 December 10 RFPEW November 15 December 10 Steward Department Upgrading Courses Certified Chief Cook September 27 November 1 October 29 December 3 Advanced Galley Operations September 27 November 15 October 22 December 10 Chief Steward October 18 November 12 Safety/Open Upgrading Courses Medical Care Provider September 13 September 17 Basic Training Revalidation October 1 October 1 UPGRADING APPLICATION Name ________________________________________________________________________ Address ______________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ Telephone (Home)_________________________ (Cell)_________________________ Date of Birth __________________________________________________________________ Deep Sea Member  Lakes Member  Inland Waters Member  If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security #_______________________ Book #_________________________________ Seniority_____________________________ Department_____________________________ Home Port____________________________________________________________________ E-mail_______________________________________________________________________ Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held_____________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ Are you a graduate of the SHLSS/PHC trainee program?  Yes No If yes, class # and dates attended __________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? Yes No _____________________________________________________________________________ With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty-five (125) days seatime for the previous year, MMC, TWIC, front page of your book including your department and seniority and qualifying sea time for the course if it is Coast Guard tested. Must have a valid SHBP clinic through course date. I authorize the Paul Hall Center to release any of the information contained in this application, or any of the supporting documentation that I have or will submit with this application to related organizations, for the purpose of better servicing my needs and helping me to apply for any benefits which might become due to me. 16 Seafarers LOG COURSE ____________________________ ____________________________ START DATE _______________ _______________ DATE OF COMPLETION ________________________ ________________________ ____________________________ _______________ ________________________ ____________________________ _______________ ________________________ ____________________________ _______________ ________________________ ____________________________ _______________ ________________________ LAST VESSEL: ___________________________________ Rating: ____________________ Date On: _______________________________ Date Off:____________________________ SIGNATURE ____________________________________ DATE______________________ NOTE: Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only if you present original receipts and successfully complete the course. If you have any questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. Not all classes are reimbursable. Return completed application to: Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education Admissions Office, Email:upgrading@seafarers.org Mail: 45353 St. George’s Ave., Piney Point, MD 20674 Fax: 301-994-2189. The Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education is a private, non-profit, equal opportunity institution and admits students, who are otherwise qualified, or any race, nationality or sex. The school complies with applicable laws with regard to admission, access or treatment of students in its programs or activities. 9/21 September 2021 �Paul Hall Center Classes Apprentice Water Survival Class #871 – Graduated July 16 (above, in alphabetical order): Elijah Ha-Saun Crawford, Kain Hingle, Seth James, Kyle Pettis, Dochua Jomar PolancoNieves, Kaleb Politte, Jesse Schecher and Alec Stensaa. RFPNW (Phase III) – Graduated July 16 (above, in alphabetical order): Lucas Anderson, Erik Arnold, Charles Broadnax II, Richard Diaz Jr., Joseph Golden II, Neil Johnston, Peter Pataki, Charles Patchin, Tyler Vitulli and Sarah Wilson. Upon the completion of their training, each plans to work in the deck department of SIU crewed vessels. Class instructor Tom Truitt is at the far left. Government Vessels (Phase I) – Graduated July 23 (above, from left): Quinn Jon Duarte and Carlos Ruben Gomez Hernandez. Medical Care Provider – Graduated July 9 (above, in alphabetical order): Jose Argueta, Mark Canada, Derek Chestnut, Randall Craig, Scott Fuller, Travis Golightly, Byron Graham, Michael Hodges, Ahmed Mohamed Mohamed Eissa, Joseph Nathanael Nicodemus, Dmitri Petchenyov and Kevin Tyson. September 2021 Seafarers LOG 17 �Paul Hall Center Classes GMDSS – Graduated July 23 (above, in alphabetical order): Jose Argueta, Travis Golightly, Byron Graham, Michael Hodges, Ahmed Mohamed Mohamed Eissa and Joseph Nathanael Nicodemus. Class instructor Patrick Schoenberger, is at the far right. Government Vessels – Graduated July 23 (above, in alphabetical order): Upgraders Harlan Alonzo, Lonnell Bell, Jacob Breschi, Luke Branko Coffelt, Richard Cole, Christopher Hunnings, Shabrielle Knight, Betty Myers, Jayne Peterson, Hayden Sattler, Jeremy Smoot, Caroline Thomas and George Ekow Turkson. Junior Engineer (Basic Electricity) – Graduated July 23 (above, in alphabetical order): Cale Irons, Trevor Johnson, Sherman Kennon Jr., Michael Lane, Mark Nover Miranda Lata, Mackenzie Latta, Tommy McGahe, Juan Narvaez, Marcelino Jose Santos Bermeo and Brandon Tanton. Class instructor William Dodd is at the far left. FOWT – Graduated July 23 (above, in alphabetical order): Nicholas Banks, Thomas Batemen, Darnel Edly Bruno, D’mitri Hill and Tyler Maddox. John Wiegmann III, their instructor, is at the far left. Advanced Refer Container Maintenance – Graduated July 23 (above, in alphabetical order): Rudy Villacarlos Cesar, Sterling Cox, Hector Jose Ginel, Andrew Gronotte, Jing Hui Huang, Jean Paul Merino Lozada, Nicholas Panagakos, Carlos Alberto Parrilla, Rodney Passapera-Barbosa, Marvin Sacaza and Kareem Walters. Instructors Mike Fay and Christopher Morgan are pictured fourth from the left and at the far right, respectively. Basic Training (Basic Firefighting) – Graduated July 11 (photo at right, in alphabetical order): Upgraders Bradley Albert, Arlando Espin, Steven Hoskins, Andrea President, Joel Williams and Josephus Willis. 18 Seafarers LOG September 2021 �Paul Hall Center Classes Basic Training (Advanced Firefighting Revalidation) – Graduated June 11 (above, in alphabetical order): Roy Graham, James Sieger and David Watkins. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Basic Training (Basic Firefighting) – Graduated July 30 (above, in alphabetical order): Mark Adams, Anthony Diamond II, Andrea Sharpe, Jeremy Smoot, Souleymane Tamla and Michael Wittenberg. Certified Chief Cook – Graduated June 16 (above, in alphabetical order): Salahi Saleh Abdullah Al Salahi, Shamir Jameil Ford, Alexus Guillory, Ashley Hudson, Yohanes Grant Pribadi, Abdul Ali Qwfan, Tyson Mariano Ramirez, Yacoub Lamar Shack, Stevon Anthony Taylor and Derek Wilson. National Maritime Center Posts Notices Addressing Exams, Appointments Continued from Page 9 Restoration of REC Counter Service Appointments The National Maritime Center (NMC) will resume counter service appointments for the Regional Examination Centers (RECs) listed below, beginning Monday, July 19, 2021. Limited examination services will continue. Mariners seeking to schedule counter service or examination appointments may do so by contacting the appropriate e-mail address or phone number below: REC Anchorage – recanc@uscg.mil REC Baltimore – recbaltimore@uscg.mil REC Boston – recboston@uscg.mil REC Charleston – reccha@uscg.mil REC Honolulu – rechonolulu@uscg.mil REC Houston – rechouston@uscg.mil REC Juneau – recjun@uscg.mil REC Long Beach – reclb@uscg.mil REC Memphis – recmemphis@uscg.mil September 2021 REC Miami – recmia@uscg.mil or (305) 536-4331 REC New Orleans – recnola@uscg.mil REC Oakland – recoakland@uscg.mil REC Portland – recportland@uscg.mil REC Seattle – recseattle@uscg.mil REC St. Louis – recstl@uscg.mil REC Toledo – rectol@uscg.mil MU Ketchikan – (907) 225-4496 (extension #3) MU San Juan – (787) 729-2368 *REC New York – has been temporarily closed and all service suspended while the REC is relocated to a new location. Counter and exam services will be by appointment only. No walk-in appointments are available. Late arrivals for appointments will not be permitted, and will require rescheduling to another appointment date. Only the mariner conducting business may enter the REC. Additional members in your party must remain outside the REC during the appointment. Mariners will be subject to COVID-19 screening questions and temperature checks. Mariners experiencing COVID-19 symptoms (fever or chills, cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, fatigue, muscle or body aches, headache, new loss of taste or smell, sore throat, congestion or runny nose, nausea or vomiting, or diarrhea), will not be permitted to enter the REC/MU and will need to reschedule their appointment. Mariners are required to wear a face covering at all times. Those who refuse to wear a face covering, or who remove face coverings during exams or counter appointments, will be dismissed and could be subject to examination module failure. Persons with documented health issues that prevent them from wearing face coverings must notify the REC/MU when scheduling an appointment. All fees must be satisfied prior to arriving at the REC for your counter service or examination appointment. gov is the preferred method of payment. A receipt or other proof of payment will be required in order to take an examination and should be e-mailed to the REC prior to your arrival. For an examination appointment, mariners should bring a Pay.gov receipt, their own #2 pencils, photo ID, a nonprogrammable calculator, and plotting equipment. No other personal belongings are allowed in the facility. Please review the REC FAQs, located on the REC page of the NMC website, for additional information regarding available services and entry requirements during the COVID-19 pandemic. Should you have any questions or concerns, contact the NMC Customer Service Center by e-mailing IASKNMC@ uscg.mil, by using the NMC online chat system, or by calling 1-888-IASKNMC (427-5662). Seafarers LOG 19 �SEPTEMBER 2021 VOLUME 83, NO. 9 Text “Join” to 97779 To Sign Up for SIU Text Alerts O F F I C I A L P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E S E A F A R E R S I N T E R N AT I O N A L U N I O N AT L A N T I C , G U L F, L A K E S A N D I N L A N D W AT E R S , A F L- C I O QE3 Raibonne Charles was a standout defensive lineman during his college days at the University of Maine (photo at far left). He parlayed those skills into a three-year Arena Football League career with the Richmond (Virginia) Raiders where he starred as a linebacker and defensive lineman (photo at center). He is pictured above with his wife, their six-monthold son and two-year-old daughter. Former Gridiron Standout Grateful For Opportunities Found with SIU P aying attention to detail and following directions to the letter more often than not proves to be a winning formula. Perhaps no one knows this better than QE3 Raibonne Charles, who some five and one-half years ago was provided a set of instructions which, if followed, could change his life while cementing his future with a rewarding career. Charles in January 2016 was a member of Paul Hall Center (PHC) Apprentice Class 809, when then Director of Manpower and current PHC Asst. Vice President Bart Rogers uttered several phrases that would profoundly impact him and his classmates. Rogers during an orientation briefing advised Charles and his classmates “to use the school’s unlicensed apprentice program to its fullest potential; to upgrade often, and to leave the maritime industry as a chief/captain, or at the very least in a better place than it was when they walked through the door.” Charles not only took Rogers’ words seriously, he put them into action. Shortly after completing his requirements for graduation from the apprentice program in late 2016 and going on his first voyage as a credentialed mariner, he returned to the PHC to begin upgrading his skills. This would become a recurring action on his part as he returned to the school time and again as often as he could to continue the enhancement of his abilities. After completing literally every course available to him in his specialty at the PHC, Charles in 2019 applied for and was selected to receive a scholarship for active Seafarers through the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP). According to his scholarship package, he planned to use the grant to pursue courses which would help pave his way toward obtaining his third assistant engineer’s license. He applied for admission to the Maritime Professional Training school in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida and the Mid Atlantic Maritime Academy in Norfolk, Virginia. A 2007 graduate of Windham High School in Windham, Maine, Charles was a well-rounded student who served as president of his class and held membership on Windham’s student council. In the athletic arena, he demonstrated versatility by participating in football, basketball and track and field. Charles was a church youth leader and volunteered numerous hours working in an area soup kitchen. He also assisted residents of a Maine veterans’ home where he was involved in impact mentoring. Following high school, Charles accepted an athletic scholarship to the University of Maine. He earned his degree in forestry while again making his mark on the gridiron as a standout defensive lineman. His accomplishments on the field did not go unnoticed, and not long after graduation, he was offered a contract to play professional football in the Arena Football League. He played three seasons as a linebacker with the Richmond (Virginia) Raiders. “In April 2015, I walked away from the game of football forever,” he said in his SHBP scholarship application package. “I knew I needed a career that provided stability and would give me the ability to provide.” At that juncture, Charles began revisiting interests from childhood. “As a young boy, the maritime industry was my first interest,” he said. “I have many fond memories of sitting on my veranda in Grenada and standing in the Portland harbor watching ships come in and out. Often, I was left wondering where did these ships come from and where will they go….” Charles said his interest in shipping probably was the result of his childhood environment. “Both of my childhood homes were heavily reliant on the maritime industry,” he shared in his application package. “The most influential person in my life was a seafarer…. The first seafarer I knew was my father.” It should be no surprise then, that Charles chose maritime as his career going forward following his days in the Arena Football League. “After really thinking about it and putting everything into perspective, I realized that this (maritime industry) is what I wanted to do,” he said. “So initially I talked to some people, did some research and tried to figure out what I needed QE3 Raibonne Charles (photo at lower left)) takes a break from his normal duties in the engine room of the American Liberty to grab some fresh air on the vessel’s deck. In the photo, Charles is busy fabricating a tool rack aboard the Pennsylvania. Both vessels are operated by Intrepid Personnel and Provisioning. to do to get the proper documentation to become a seaman. Once I figured that out, I did what most people do when they are looking for a job: fill out resumes and send out applications. “I sent resumes and applications out to any and every shipping company in the world that I could find an application to,” he said. “What ended up happening was that a crewing coordinator from TOTE Maritime called and said she had received my resume several times since her company recruited mariners from other shipping companies. She explained to me what the SIU was, told me about the unlicensed apprentice program, explained what it was all about and recommended that I apply for it. I did, got accepted and in January of 2016 boarded a plane to Baltimore (en route to Piney Point) and my life has never been the same since,” he said. This past February, Charles passed the examination which landed him credentials as a 3rd Assistant and Designated Duty Engineer. Justifiably proud of his achievement, he reached out to many of those who had figured prominently in his success to date. Among them was Rogers, whom he contacted via email in May to offer his thanks. In part, that correspondence read: “I came through the program in class 809. From the day I joined the program my life has moved in a positive direction, and I am very grateful…. The opportunity that was provided to me by the SIU has transformed my family’s and my life. Thank you and everyone on the admissions/manpower team that helped make this possible.” � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 2020-present Description An account of the resource Volumes LXXXII of the Seafarers Log and beyond Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource September 2021 Description An account of the resource LABOR MOVEMENT LOSES A GIANT VACCINATION REQUIREMENTS RAMP UP ACROSS COUNTRY NEWEST REPLENISMENT OILER CHRISTENED SIU VESSEL HOSTS SEC. BUTTIGIEG ARBITRATOR'S RULING MANDATES VACCINATIONS LABOR BOARD HEARING OFFICER: AMAZON'S LAW-BREAKING SHOULD LEAD TO VOTE RERUN CELONA APPOINTED AS SIU VP GOV'T SERVICES SIU MOURNS LOSS OF RICHARD TRUMKA GROUNDBREAKING SIU VP HUNT RETIRES CROWLEY WINS VESSEL ACQUISITION MANAGEMENT PACT MISSISSIPPI LEGISLATURE BACKS JONES ACT DEFENSE EXPERT CITES URGENT NEED TO REVITALIZE U.S. SHIPPING USA MARITIME COALITION LETTER TO CONGRESS: REVERSE 'DISASTROUS REDUCTIONS IN CARGO PREFERENCE' NMC RELEASES NOTICES COVERING EMAIL RENEWAL EXAMS, REC APPOINTMENTS NATIONAL MARITIME CENTER POSTS NOTICES ADDRESSING EXAMS, APPOINTMENTS FORMER GRIDIRON STANDOUT GRATEFUL FOR OPPORTUNITIES FOUND WITH SIU Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 09/01/2021 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context VOL. 83, NO. 9 2021 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/e987a181291a45e3847249dd0c62a57a.pdf 494213d10aef08a1070cefaa64f24490 PDF Text Text SEPTEMBER 2022 VOLUME 84, NO. 9 O F F I C I A L P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E S E A F A R E R S I N T E R N AT I O N A L U N I O N AT L A N T I C , G U L F, L A K E S A N D I N L A N D W AT E R S , A F L- C I O LNG-Fueled George III Delivered Pasha Hawaii Vessel Signals New Jobs for Seafarers SIU members are sailing aboard Pasha Hawaii’s new containership George III. The company took delivery of the 774-foot Jones Act vessel in late July. A sister ship is scheduled for delivery by the end of the year. Page 3. Seafarers ‘Paint Tacoma’ Again Following a two-year pause caused by the pandemic, SIU members pitched in for the resumption of Paint TacomaPierce Beautiful, a philanthropic outreach guided by Associated Ministries in the Pacific Northwest. This year’s SIU team included AB Samed Kassem (photo below); the volunteers prepped and repainted the house of a local resident. Pages 12-13. Six SIU Stewards Complete Recertification Training at Piney Point-Based Paul Hall Center Following the August membership meeting at the union-affiliated school in southern Maryland, graduates of the steward recertification class are pictured with SIU officials. From left in photo above are SIU Port Agent Mario Torrey, SIU VP Tom Orzechowski, Recertified Stewards Sajid Foster, Alexander Cordero and Bryan Alvarez, SIU Exec. VP Augie Tellez, Recertified Stewards Bruce Johnson, Abraham Mills and Marlon Brown, SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel and SIU VP Contracts George Tricker. Page 7. Rescue at Sea Page 4 Standard Contracts Ratified Pages 8, 9, 10, 24 �President’s Report Perspective and Civility “What is wrong with him?!” “How can she believe such a thing?!” “Why in the world would they support that kind of candidate?!” These sorts of sentiments are all too common nowadays, as many people retreat to their social-media silos and their television “news” equivalents. With Election Day on the horizon, this is a perfect time to politely encourage our members, retirees, officials and staff to take a deep breath, focus specifically on issues, and try to give people the benefit of the doubt. Such an approach will be good for one’s blood pressure, if nothing else. Polarization in the U.S. has reached alarming levels, and that belief is backed Michael Sacco up not only by data but also by daily anecdotal evidence in all of our lives. Our path to this regrettable destination partly took root in local news deserts – as legitimate journalism dried up, it was replaced by digital imposters cleverly masquerading as authentic outlets. There are many hundreds of such online entities across the country, most of them driven not by a desire to inform and provide balanced reporting, but rather by the political agendas of their big-money founders. The New York Times did a breathtaking, in-depth report on this situation a few years ago; there is no end in sight. When you combine the dwindling state of the true news media with the proliferation of social media, it’s not pretty. Navigating the murky waters of social media can be challenging, particularly when it comes to politics. But one indisputable truth is that whatever you click on, you get more of. As one researcher put it, the concept of confirmation bias is nothing new. “But in social media, this bias is propagated simply by reading, liking, and sharing content that acts to support those convictions we already hold, while avoiding content that challenges our beliefs. Essentially, we begin to isolate ourselves from those opposing opinions until we’re surrounded with people who agree with us.” Unlike traditional media outlets, social media at best has very loose rules governing the truthfulness of its content. Even when crackdowns occur, they’re often sporadic, tardy and not fully effective. The lack of accountability corresponds with a lack of accuracy. Finally, we’d all do well to remember that in an age when so many social media, traditional media and other outlets make their living from online ad revenue, their respective content is usually designed to agitate – and to keep you clicking and tapping and watching. This doesn’t just apply to Newsmax or MSNBC or CNN. Pay attention to your local weather forecast and you’ll often hear words like “damaging, destructive” and “severe,” even if those are just slim possibilities for later in the week or in another region. Behind the algorithm are equations that have figured out how to keep us engaged. Particularly with the November elections looming, I encourage everyone to pay attention to issues rather than personalities, and remember that the vast majority of people want what is best for our country, even if we sometimes have different ideas about how to achieve those goals. And, as always, be assured that the SIU will support candidates who support our industry and workers’ rights, regardless of political party. O F F I C I A L P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E S E A F A R E R S I N T E R N AT I O N A L U N I O N AT L A N T I C , G U L F, L A K E S A N D I N L A N D W AT E R S , A F L- C I O Volume 84 Number 9 September 2022 The SIU online: www.seafarers.org The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 1086-4636) is published monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters, AFL-CIO; 5201 Capital Gateway Drive; Camp Springs, MD 20746. Telephone (301) 899-0675. Periodicals postage paid at Southern Maryland 20790-9998. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Capital Gateway Drive, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Communications Director, Jordan Biscardo; Assistant Communications Director & Managing Editor/ Production, Jim Guthrie; Assistant Editor, Nick Merrill; Administrative Support, Jenny Stokes. Copyright © 2022 Seafarers International Union, AGLIW. All Rights Reserved. The Seafarers International Union engaged an environmentally friendly printer for the production of this newspaper. 2 Seafarers LOG Pictured aboard the new passenger ferry Arthur E. Imperatore are (from left) NY Waterway Vessel Project Manager Joe Carson, Port Captain Vincent Lombardi, Vice President of Operations Alan Warren and Maintenance/Operations Coordinator Donald Montemarano. (Photo courtesy NY Waterway) NY Waterway Expands Fleet, Refits Ferries with ‘Greener’ Engines SIU-contracted NY Waterway is in the midst of a busy and productive stretch. The company unveiled the first of six planned retrofitted ferries on July 26, with the reintroduction of the M/V Hoboken. The vessel, which is crewed by SIU members, is now powered by two brand new engines, which use 25% less fuel and cut emissions by 80%. “Every ferry takes dozens – sometimes hundreds – of cars off the region’s roadways. They’re already a clean and sustainable way to commute, and now they’ll be even greener. It’s our mission to be a good steward of the harbor, and we’re so thrilled to see the Hoboken reenter service with cleaner engines, room for more passengers and lower fuel use on every trip,” said Armand Pohan, president, CEO and chairman of NY Waterway. “We are so grateful to our partners at NJ Transit, the FTA (Federal Transit Administration) as well as Senator Bob Menendez (D-New Jersey) for this program.” The old engines, four 600-horsepower EPA Tier 1 engines, have been replaced by two 900-horsepower EPT Tier 3 engines. This has also allowed for an increase in passenger capacity, from 149 to 247. The upgrades were made possible by a $12 million federal grant, along with the assistance of state-owned NJ Transit. The expected delivery date of the sixth retrofitted ferry will be in 2023. In addition to the retrofitted ferries, NY Waterway has taken delivery of two new 500-passenger boats, the Franklin D. Roosevelt and the Arthur E. Imperatore – the latter of which is named after the late founder of the company. Those vessels are likely to be placed into service in the fall, according to NY Waterway. Imperatore, a visionary entrepreneur who helped create the modern commuter ferry system, died in November 2020 at age 95. He founded NY Waterway in 1986 in Weehawken, New Jersey, and built it into a mass transit system which has transported approximately 300 million people. Additionally, and as previously reported, Seafarers aboard NY Waterway vessels on July 12 rescued nine individuals whose boat capsized in the Hudson River. Crew of Maersk Peary Receives Commendation for Rescue at Sea Seafarers and officers from the Mearsk Peary recently received a United States Coast Guard (USCG) Certificate of Appreciation for their work in rescuing an otherwise doomed sailor in December 2021. U.S. Navy Capt. Ken Bridgewater presented the crew with the certificate while the ship was at anchor in Honolulu on July 8, in a ceremony also attended by SIU Port Agent Hazel Galbiso. As part of a much larger rescue effort, Seafarers sailing aboard the Maersk Peary pulled a man from the Aegean Sea on Dec. 22. The SIU crew aboard the Peary, which was en route to deliver vital fuel and supplies to McMurdo Station in Antarctica, included: Bosun Damon Zschoche; ABs Marie Acosta, Roni Castillo, Joshua Gail, Edward Majesky and Derek Willis; QE3 Lateef Sanusi; QEP Rickey Yancey; GSTU Lakeeba Bazemore; Wiper Ali Laith; Recertified Steward Tony Spain; and Chief Cooks Osmar Ramos and Randy Hampton. The ship’s officers are represented by the Seafarers-affiliated American Maritime Officers. “It is a pleasure to present this award on behalf of the Coast Guard,” said Bridgewater. “The efforts of the merchant mariners often go unnoticed, but Maersk Peary’s participation in this multi-agency rescue mission is an example of this community’s professionalism, dedication to duty and ability to answer the call to a fellow mariner in distress. This particular mission highlights their ability to support a wide variety of missions that comes their way. Bravo Zulu to the entire crew for an outstanding effort!” The rescue saw the crew work as part of a larger operation, searching in a grid pattern for migrants adrift at sea following three separate accidents over the course of a weekend. They discovered a drowning man clinging to a boat fender, and pulled him aboard in the middle of the night. The crew then transferred the man, who was shivering but conscious, to the Greek Coast Guard and resumed their grid search. The Maersk Peary was then relieved of their search and rescue duties four hours later, and returned to their original course. After the rescue, vessel master Capt. Everett Hatton said, “I am very fortunate for SIU to step up and provide a top-notch crew on very short time as we rushed the vessel from load port Greece just prior to the holidays. This current crew proved to be well qualified and trained when the alarms rang to turn to for a search and rescue during the dark of the night. Without a hesitation, when called to assist, all were there and added helping hands. For the Maersk Peary crew, it was an outstanding effort for everyone to be involved in this recovery.” In that rescue operation, at least 30 migrants died in three separate incidents in the same area, with more than 160 rescued. The combined rescue efforts saw at least four Greek Coast Guard vessels, a Greek naval frigate, eight merchant ships, three private vessels, three military helicopters and a military transport plane all pitch in to save as many lives as possible. Pictured from left to right at the recognition ceremony are Bosun Damon Zschoche, AB Benjamin Wilson, AB Marie Acosta and SIU Port Agent Hazel Galbiso. September 2022 �SIU Members Sail on New Containership LNG-Powered George III Delivered to Pasha Hawaii Following several pandemic-related delays, SIU-contracted Pasha Hawaii in late July took delivery of the MV George III, which the company described as “the first liquefied natural gas (LNG)-powered vessel to fuel on the West Coast and the first to serve Hawaii.” The 774-foot containership is the first of two new Ohana Class vessels to join Pasha Hawaii’s fleet, serving the Hawaii/mainland trade lane as part of the Jones Act fleet. The second ship, the Janet Marie, is slated for delivery by the end of this year. Texas-based Keppel AmFELS is responsible for the construction of both vessels. Recertified Bosun Kissinfor Taylor, part of the first crew aboard the George III after delivery, said the ship made a good first impression. “Things are going very well,” Taylor stated. “The delivery was delayed for almost two years, so it’s good to finally be aboard. The vessel itself reminds me of the new Matson ships. The only big difference is this one is LNG-powered. But we’re all working hard, and I’ve sailed with most of the guys on here for years.” In announcing the delivery, Pasha Hawaii stated, “Operating fully on natural gas from day one, the new Jones Act vessel surpasses the International Maritime Organization (IMO) 2030 emission standards for ocean vessels, representing the most technologically advanced and environmentally friendly vessel to serve Hawaii. Energy efficiencies are also achieved with a state-of-the-art engine, an optimized hull form, and an underwater propulsion system with a high-efficiency rudder and propeller.” The Ohana Class vessels are named in honor of George Pasha III and Janet SIU crew members are pictured aboard the newly delivered George III with SIU Asst. VP Mike Russo (fifth from left). Marie, the late parents of The Pasha Group President and CEO George Pasha IV, signifying three generations of service to Hawaii. “Today marks a moment in time that will be remembered by many of us, including my family and our incredible team members at Pasha Hawaii who worked tirelessly to bring MV George III to life,” said George Pasha IV. “As we welcome the new MV George III to the Pasha Hawaii fleet, we stand incredibly proud of the perseverance and commitment of our partners at Keppel AmFELS, and the skilled men and women at the shipyard on this tremendous accomplishment. We look Union Jobs Secure Aboard Six Prepositioning Ships Seafarers-contracted Crowley in mid-August was awarded a new Defense Department contract for operation of six prepositioning vessels: the USNS John Bobo, USNS William Button, USNS Baldomero Lopez, USNS Jack Lummus, USNS Fred Stockham and USNS Dewayne Williams. Crowley already had been operating those vessels, based on a previous award. The new agreement is expected to last through September 2027. According to the U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC), the Stockham is 907 feet long, has a 105-foot beam and can sail at 24 knots, while the remaining ships are each 673 feet long, with 105-foot beams and sailing speeds of up to 17.7 knots. MSC describes its prepositioning program as “an essential element in the U.S. military’s readiness strategy. Afloat prepositioning strategically places military equipment and supplies aboard ships located in key ocean areas to ensure rapid availability during a major theater war, a humanitarian operation or other domestic ports is carried aboard vessels that are crewed, built, flagged and owned American. This law always has enjoyed bipartisan political support in addition to receiving strong backing from top U.S. military leaders. Among other benefits, the Jones Act – which helps contribute billions of dollars each year to the national economy – helps maintain a pool of well-trained, reliable, U.S.-citizen mariners who would be available to sail aboard military support ships in times of need. More than 90 countries around the world maintain some form of cabotage law. Talking Maritime with U.S. Senator contingency. MSC’s seventeen prepositioning ships support the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps and Defense Logistics Agency.” The agency further notes, “Prepositioning ships provide quick and efficient movement of military gear between operating areas without reliance on other nations’ transportation networks. These ships give U.S. regional combatant commanders the assurance that they will have what they need to quickly respond in a crisis – anywhere, anytime. During a contingency, troops are flown into a theater of operations to rapidly employ the cargo from these ships. Many of MSC’s prepositioning ships are able to discharge liquid, containerized or motorized cargo both pier side or while anchored offshore by using floating hoses and shallow-draft watercraft, called lighterage, that are carried aboard. This allows cargo to be ferried to shore in areas where ports are non-existent or in poor condition and gives the nation’s military forces the ability to operate in both developed and undeveloped areas of the world.” The SIU-crewed USNS John Bobo, shown in a file photo, is part of a program described by the Military Sealift Command as “an essential element in the U.S. military’s readiness strategy.” (Photo by Cpl. James Gulliver) September 2022 forward to beginning service to Hawaii in August and taking delivery of the Janet Marie later this year.” In addition to Taylor, SIU members who helped crew up the ship in July included ABs Gerardo Arroyo, Bobby Belches, David Connelly, Yassid Laboriel Lalin and Andrei Tretyak, QMEDs Benjamin Scott and Tousif Khan, Steward/Baker Bryan Nystrom, Chief Cook Hussein Hussein and SA Abdullah Alasfor. The Jones Act, America’s freight cabotage law, has protected U.S. national, economic and homeland security for more than a century. It requires that cargo moving between SIU VP Gulf Cost Dean Corgey (left) and U.S. Sen. Ben Lujan (D-New Mexico) are pictured in late July at a campaign event in Houston. Corgey thanked the senator for his support of the Jones Act and the entire U.S. Merchant Marine. They also discussed the apprentice program at the SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland. Seafarers LOG 3 �Students line up to receive their free books and backpacks. Volunteers and local government officials are pictured at the giveaway in San Juan. SIU Pitches in During Distribution Effort Coalition Brings Books, Backpacks to Puerto Rico From July 27-29, the SIU helped distribute educational books and backpacks to students in San Juan, Puerto Rico, as part of the League of United Latin American Citizen’s (LULAC) Convention, which took place July 25-30. SIU Asst. VP Amancio Crespo (left) reads aloud to children gathered on stage at the convention. The American Federation of Teachers (AFT), the Asociacion de Maestros de Puerto Rico (AMPR) and LULAC partnered with the SIU, the Transportation Institute (TI), and SIU-contracted Crowley Maritime to ship 10,000 books to the island, as well as thousands of backpacks, for distribution among the children living in Puerto Rico. According to TI Vice President of Government Affairs Sara Fuentes, “AFT was a big sponsor of the conference and was going to send some books down as part of their ‘Reading Opens the World’ program. (SIU Assistant Vice President) Amancio (Crespo) heard about it at the AFL meeting, and called Crowley and got them to ship the books down for free, and AFT asked TI to buy backpacks. We gave out 10,000 books to about 1,200 students there, with the leftover books going to children in housing projects on the island.” “Every child must have the opportunity to recover and thrive, and reading is a foundational skill necessary for virtually everything we learn and do – and reading well is an essential pathway to opportunity,” said AFT President Randi Weingarten. “Kids long for something that’s theirs – to explore faraway places or learn about a great leader that looks like them, and these books are fulfilling that dream.” Crespo stated, “It’s definitely a team effort, and we’re honored to be a part of it. I was also chosen to read a book aloud to the kids at the convention, and naturally I chose ‘El Coqui,’ which shares a name with the Crowley vessel that shipped the books to Puerto Rico.” AFT’s “Reading Opens the World” program is similar in nature to the SIU-affiliated “BookWaves” program that began in 2020, and saw more than 100,000 books donated to children in Puerto Rico with the help of industry partners and union labor. Pacific Tracker Crew Helps Save a Life at Sea The SIU-crewed Pacific Tracker recently aided a boater who’d suffered an unusual ailment that started as a nuisance and eventually became an emergency: a nosebleed that lasted four days. Mariners from the TOTE-operated ship rendered assistance July 10-11 off the California coast. They picked up the distressed boater and transported him to a Coast Guard helicopter near San Francisco. According to Chief Mate A.J. Quinn, a member of the Seafarers-affiliated American Maritime Officers, the Pacific Tracker had concluded a government mission when the ship received a communication from the Coast Guard. The agency explained the emergency and said the individual in question has been participating in a yacht race between Hawaii and California. A doctor who’d been consulted about the situation informed the Coast Guard that the injured person needed to get to a hospital as soon as possible, Quinn said. The Pacific Tracker sailed approximately 200 miles to the boater’s location in the Pacific, picked him up in a fast rescue boat and brought him aboard the parent ship. Vessel master Capt. Jeff Royer arranged to meet a Coast Guard helicopter off the coast of San Francisco, 570 miles east of the rescue location. According to Quinn, the voyage took more than a day to complete even at full speed and in favorable sea conditions. Once the Pacific Tracker reached the rendezvous point for the Coast Guard helicopter, the captain maneuvered the vessel to 4 Seafarers LOG comply with instructions from the helicopter crew. The helicopter then deployed a rescue swimmer onto the deck of the Pacific Tracker with the helicopter rescue winch; the patient was transferred safely. The Pacific Tracker is a government-owned tracking and telemetry Personnel from the Pacific Tracker use a fast rescue boat during a recent mobilization to assist a distressed boater. ship in service for the Missile Defense Agency. SIU members aboard the ship during the rescue included Bosun Kevin Kellum, ABs Kennard Latson Graham and Joey Benosa, OS Sameer Ahmed, QMEDs Roberto Borras Valencia, James Ross, Marion Collins Jr. and David Kelch, MDR Sheena Jumamil, Oilers Samuel Fagerness and Fredrick Hall, Wiper Jesse Kleinfelter, GUDE Dionesio Monteclaro Jr., GVA Micah Wideman, Chief Cooks Brittany Williams and Nicoll Quinones-Rodriguez, and SAs Kion Miller, Dan Monteclaro, James Petite, Michael Stroud, Rasha Warthem and Lisa Wert. Rear Adm. Doug Williams of the Missile Defense Agency sent a congratulatory letter to the Pacific Tracker’s captain and crew. “Thanks to your actions, this sailor received the medical attention he urgently required, Williams wrote. “As a U.S. Navy Surface Warfare Officer, I am well aware of the time-critical response desperately required for a sailor in need, particularly in open ocean waters. Your actions, along with the efforts of the crew members onboard the SS Pacific Tracker, made a difference in that sailor’s life, and demonstrated the values that we hold dear in the Navy and by the Missile Defense Agency…. Please accept my sincere appreciation for your support of the search and rescue efforts, and pass on a hearty ‘Bravo Zulu’ to your crew…. We are proud and honored by your service to our program and to our country.” September 2022 �U.S. House Votes to Support Workers Legislators Turn Back Latest Attack on Davis-Bacon Congressional representatives recently upheld a law that’s crucial for helping maintain good wages in the construction industry. On July 19, House members voted 264165 to maintain the Davis-Bacon Act. All 223 voting Democrats opposed the move to repeal the law, and thereby supported workers, as did 41 Republicans. Davis-Bacon, enacted in 1931 in the depths of the Great Depression, helps ensure decent wages for construction workers who labor on federally funded projects (such as highways, subways, bridges, airport runways and, now, installing broadband). It mandates those workers be paid a minimum of the locally prevailing wage in their area and for their craft. Labor Department surveys of workers and employers set those minimums, which vary state by state, metro area by metro area, and trade by trade. Supporters have explained that such an arrangement means Davis-Bacon ensures cut-rate construction contractors can’t low-ball workers on federally funded projects. “Davis-Bacon requires workers on federally funded construction projects be paid no less than the wages paid in the community for similar work,” House Appropriations Committee Chair Rep. Rosa DeLauro (D-Connecticut) told her colleagues. The Davis-Bacon skirmish occurred during a session on the spend- ing bill for the Departments of Housing and Urban Development and Transportation for the fiscal year that begins Oct. 1. DeLauro added, “The House has taken numerous votes on this issue, and on every vote … has voted to maintain Davis-Bacon requirements. We should not be attacking working-class people, men and women who work every single day for a decent paycheck, and their wages haven’t been increased with the cost of inflation.” “Dozens of studies over decades have shown prevailing wages increase productivity, raise wages, help local contractors and promote high-quality apprenticeship programs,” said U.S. Rep. Donald Norcross (D-New Jersey), an Electrical Worker. “Prevailing wage laws increase productivity by attracting higher-quality general contractors and subcontractors to bid on public works; it levels the playing field. As a result, public projects cut down on change orders and finish projects with greater efficiency.” Concerning arguments against the law, Norcross said, “I find it absolutely unbelievable that … each and every time” Davis-Bacon foes are “saying ‘I am fighting to lower wages in my district. This is what my people want, they want to be paid less.’ Not a word on what the contractor/owners can make…. This is insane. I would call it dumb, but I want to be kinder. Let’s just call it wrong, Notice/Reminder Norfolk Hall Temporarily Relocates The union has relocated its Norfolk, Virginia, operations while the old hiring hall undergoes extensive renovations. The current address: 111 Mill Creek Parkway Suite 100 Chesapeake, VA 23323 The phone and fax numbers for the hall are unchanged. The temporary hall is located 14 miles from the old one. Renovations at the old facility (115 Third Street, Norfolk, VA 23510-1002) are expected to last at least eight months. The temporary hall in Chesapeake, Virginia Notice SHBP Conducting Annual Verification of Dependents In order to better serve all Plan participants, the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan is updating its records regarding eligible individuals. Seafarers are scheduled to receive a letter from the Plan in early September, along with a dependent verification form. The purpose of the form is to help ensure that the Plan’s records regarding eligible family members are accurate. Eligible individuals must fill out and return the dependent verification form to the Plan by October 30, 2022, by email, mail or fax. If the Plan doesn’t receive the form by that date, your dependents’ benefits will be suspended until the form is received. If you are on a vessel and cannot return the form in time, please contact MAP at (800) 252-4674 (Option 2), or at map@ seafarers.org. September 2022 U.S. Rep. Donald Norcross (D-New Jersey) U.S. Rep. Rosa DeLauro (D-Connecticut) hateful, misappropriated.” He also pointed out repealing DavisBacon can backfire. States have their own Davis-Bacon laws, governing their construction projects. After Republicans took total control of West Virginia’s legislature, they repealed the Mountaineer State’s law in 2015, Norcross said. They confidently predicted doing so would cut construction costs so much the state could build five new schools for the price of four. It didn’t work, he added. Studies showed “no savings from repeal, but massive decreases in wages,” plus the hiring of “out-of-town contractors” and declining apprenticeships, Norcross said. Repeal also removed well-paying construction jobs from native West Virginians in one of the nation’s poorest states. National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) General Counsel Jennifer A. Abruzzo and the Justice Department’s (DOJ) Antitrust Division Assistant Attorney General Jonathan Kanter on July 26 signed a new memorandum of understanding creating a formal partnership between the two agencies “to better protect free and fair labor markets and ensure that workers can freely exercise their rights under the National Labor Relations Act,” the organizations said in a joint announcement. The DOJ and the NLRB “share an interest in promoting the free flow of commerce and fair competition in labor markets, including through protecting American workers from collusive or anti-competitive employer practices and unlawful interference with employees’ right to organize,” they said in the written statement. “The agencies’ collaboration will focus on protecting workers who have been harmed or may be at risk of being harmed as a result of conduct designed to evade legal obligation and accountability (such as misclassifying employees or fissuring workplaces); interference with the rights of workers to obtain fair market compensation and collectively bargain (through labor market concentration/labor monopsony or other anti-competitive practices); and the imposition of restrictive agreements or workplace rules, such as non-compete, non-solicitation, and non-disclosure provisions.” Through greater coordination in information sharing, enforcement activity and training, the agencies aim to “maximize the enforcement of federal laws, including the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA), under the NLRB’s jurisdiction and the antitrust laws enforced by the Justice Department’s Antitrust Division. In particular, this memorandum will allow the agencies to refer cases of potentially illegal activity to each other, as appropriate, and to coordi- nate on enforcement,” they said. “Under the NLRA, workers have the right to organize to improve their pay and working conditions,” said Abruzzo. “When businesses interfere with worker organizing, either through creating structures designed to evade labor law or through anticompetitive practices, it hinders our economy and our democracy. This memorandum will strengthen the federal government’s ability to effectively stop this kind of unlawful activity, and therefore to better protect workers’ right to freely associate with one another to improve their wages and working conditions and to collectively bargain through freely chosen representatives.” Kanter stated, “Protecting competition in labor markets is fundamental to the ability of workers to earn just rewards for their work, to live out the American dream, and to provide for their families. By cooperating more closely with our colleagues in the NLRB, we can share information on potential violations of the antitrust and labor laws, collaborate on new policies, and ensure that workers are protected from collusion and unlawful employer behavior. As the Department noted in the amicus brief we submitted in the NLRB’s recent Atlanta Opera matter, we support the Board’s ongoing efforts to update its guidance to ensure that workers are properly classified under the labor laws. Protecting the right of workers to earn a fair wage is core to the work of both our agencies, and it will continue to receive extraordinary vigilance from the Antitrust Division.” In February, Abruzzo issued a memorandum to all field offices, committing to working closely with other federal agencies to ensure the government is “co-functioning and co-enforcing all related laws in the most effective and efficient way to ensure workers are fully protected, while minimizing employers’ compliance burdens.” DOJ, NLRB Form Alliance To Protect Labor Markets Seafarers LOG 5 �‘Time is Now for Fixing Broken Labor Laws’ Editor’s note: During the AFL-CIO convention earlier this year, delegates approved the following resolution, titled “The Time is Now for Fixing America’s Broken Labor Laws.” All across America, working people are rediscovering the value of unions. From nurses to videogame developers to graduate teaching assistants, workers are organizing in record numbers. Public support for unions is the highest it has been in 50 years. A majority of Americans supports unions, and the strongest support is among workers between the ages of 18 and 34. In addition, the COVID-19 pandemic has shed new light on the importance of workers having a voice at work. Belonging to a union can literally be a matter of life and death at countless workplaces in America where workers are exposed to the risk of sickness and death every day of the week. The pandemic has also highlighted deep structural imbalances of power in our economy, as the wealth of billionaires has grown by 70% during the pandemic. Today, 716 billionaires have more wealth than the entire bottom half of the population – or 165 million people. Although the right to form unions and engage in collective bargaining is a fundamental right guaranteed by the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA) of 1935, the desire of millions of workers to join a union has been frustrated by unchecked corporate power and our broken and outdated labor laws. Even the right to strike, which should be a universal right, has become meaningless with the widespread use of permanent replacements. In the public sector, only half the states recognize workers’ freedom to engage in collective bargaining, and public employees’ right to bargain is under persistent attack from anti-worker politicians. While polls show increasing numbers of Americans would join a union if they could, union density continues to slide as corporations and their allies in Congress work side by side to erect barriers to organizing and bargaining. From Amazon to Google to DoorDash, massive corporations are using their wealth and power to deny workers our fundamental rights. Corporate front groups are also using their money and influence at the state level to undermine collective bargaining rights for public employees. Workers at these companies are not the only ones who suffer from corporate greed. Entire communities are held back as low wages undermine education budgets, health care and other basic public services. In 26 “right to work” states, more workers are stuck in low-wage jobs than in non-right to work states. There is a growing consensus among economists that unions are the cornerstone of a robust and sustainable economy. Unions raise wages, reduce income inequality, promote workplace safety, negotiate retirement security and health benefits, and ensure fairness and dignity for millions of workers. Public sector unions support quality public services, and seek to maintain safe and supportive communities. Unions also strengthen our democracy and help bridge the racial divide. When greedy corporations exploit our broken labor laws to keep workers down and frustrate union organizing, the result is that our economy is weaker, we are less globally competitive and income inequality continues to explode. The need to modernize and strengthen our labor laws has never been more compelling, and today the AFLCIO commits to keeping labor law reform at the top of our agenda until we succeed. In 2019, the AFL-CIO began a campaign to build support for the Protecting the Right to Organize (PRO) Act. The PRO Act would modernize the NLRA to give working people a voice on the job so we can negotiate for higher wages, better benefits, a more secure retirement and a safer workplace. It would impose financial penalties on companies and individual corporate officers who violate the law. It also would override state right to work laws, prohibit companies from holding captive-audience meetings during organizing campaigns, ban the use of permanent replacements during strikes and remove the ban on secondary picketing. The PRO Act would ensure that all workers have the right to join a union by cracking down on employers who misclassify their workers as independent contractors. Finally, it would establish a process for mediation and arbitration to help employers and unions reach a first contract. Majorities in Congress agree that the NLRA needs to be updated and strength- ened. The PRO Act passed the House of Representatives in 2019 and 2021 with bipartisan majorities. President Biden has called on Congress to send the PRO Act to his desk. It is now up to the Senate to debate and pass the PRO Act. The AFL-CIO has also strongly advocated for the Public Service Freedom to Negotiate Act (PSFNA) so that all public employees have a right to bargain collectively. The PSFNA gives states the flexibility to write their own collective bargaining laws for public employees subject to minimum standards, including allowing public service workers to join together and have a voice on the job to improve wages, working conditions and the delivery of public services in their communities. We stand with public sector workers – nurses, teachers, EMS workers, custodians, corrections officers, child care providers and so many more – who have stood courageously on the front lines of the fight against the pandemic to keep their communities safe, healthy and strong while putting their lives on the line. By standing together, union members can demand workplace protections and safety standards and the ability to use paid leave, as well as stay connected to their jobs during these uncertain times. It is now time to pass the PSFNA. We reaffirm our commitment, which we first made at the 2017 AFL-CIO Convention, that no candidate or elected official who fails to endorse and fight for these fundamental reforms should receive the support of working people. Spotlight on Mariner Health How to Identify and Avoid Monkeypox Editor’s note: This article is provided by the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan Medical Department. Monkeypox is a disease caused by an infection with a virus: the monkeypox virus. The monkeypox virus is related to the virus that causes smallpox. Monkeypox symptoms are similar to smallpox symptoms but are milder, and monkeypox rarely causes death. Monkeypox cases have been confirmed in many countries, leading the World Health Organization (WHO) on July 23 to designate monkeypox as a public health emergency of international concern. (The other diseases with this designation are COVID and polio.) Among other considerations, this means shore leave may be affected in some countries. More than 99% of people who get this form of the virus are likely to survive. Those at higher risk of serious illness or death are people with weakened immune systems, children under age eight, people with history of eczema (a skin condition) and people who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Risk in the U.S. is low, although cases are increasing. Monkeypox does not spread easily and the risk of spread occurs only from people who have symptoms (unlike COVID, where people without symptoms can spread the disease). Close contact is believed to be necessary to spread the disease. Direct contact with someone with the rash or scabs or contact with body fluids from someone with the disease can spread it. Touching objects, fabrics (towels, clothing, bedding) and surfaces may spread it. Monkeypox can spread through sex and by hugging, massage, prolonged face-toface contact and touching fabrics or objects used during sex. Symptoms include a rash that looks like pimples or blisters on the face, inside the mouth, and on other parts of body such as hands, feet, chest or genitals. Flu-like symptoms also have been reported in association with monkeypox (fever, chills, headache, exhaustion, muscle aches and back ache, and swollen lymph nodes). The rash can start first or follow the flu-like symptoms by a few days. Symptoms usually appear within three 6 Seafarers LOG weeks of close contact with someone with monkeypox. If you think you may have monkeypox symptoms (you notice a new or unexplained rash or other symptoms) or if you have been in contact with someone with who has monkeypox, take the following steps: n See a healthcare provider or contact your local health department n Remind the healthcare provider that monkeypox is circulating n Avoid close contact (including intimate contact) with others until a healthcare provider examines you n Avoid close contact with pets or other animals until a healthcare provider examines you n If you are waiting on test results, follow the same precautions n If your test is positive, stay isolated (in another area of your house from others and pets) until your rash has healed, all scabs have fallen off, and a fresh layer of intact skin has formed. Use a separate bathroom if possible – otherwise clean surfaces frequently. Wear a well-fitting mask when around others in your home, especially if you are coughing or have sores in your mouth. The illness typically lasts two to four weeks. There are vaccines which may be recommended after exposure/before symptoms develop. Reporting possible exposure as soon as possible is important. Getting the vaccine early after exposure appears to be more effective in preventing infection. There are medications that were developed for smallpox which appear to work with monkeypox. People at higher risk for serious illness are candidates for these treatments. Preventive steps include: do not touch the rash or scabs of a person with monkeypox; do not kiss, hug, cuddle, or have sex with a person with monkeypox (it is not known whether a condom can prevent monkeypox); do not share utensils (fork/knife/spoon) or cups with a person with monkeypox; do not handle or otherwise touch the bedding, towels, or clothing of a person with monkeypox; wash your hands often with soap and water or use a hand sanitizer; in Central and West Africa, avoid contact with animals that may spread monkeypox, usually rodents and monkeys. Healthy Recipe Honey Mustard Garlic Shrimp Servings: 24 Ingredients 6 pounds shrimp, peeled and deveined (21-25 count) 1/2 cup olive oil 1/2 cup garlic, minced fine Kosher salt Black pepper, ground Honey Mustard Sauce 1 cup Dijon mustard 1 cup honey 1/4 cup white vinegar 3 teaspoons granulated garlic 1-1/2 teaspoons cayenne pepper 1/4 cup parsley, chopped Salt and pepper to taste Preparation Pat shrimp dry with a paper towel and place them in a small bowl. Toss them in 1 tbsp olive oil and a bit of salt and pepper. Set aside. Make honey mustard sauce by whisking together all sauce ingredients in a small bowl. Set aside. Note that the cayenne pepper adds some spice to this recipe. On the stove, heat a pan over medium-high heat. Once the pan is hot (a splash of water should sizzle on it), place the shrimp on the pan. Cook the shrimp for 1-2 minutes per side, then remove and set aside in a bowl. They’ll be opaque, pink, and slightly browned when done. Add the minced garlic to the pan and cook for 1 minute. Add the cooked shrimp back into the pan and toss with the honey mustard sauce. Remove from heat and serve. Garnish with black pepper and a sprinkle of parsley. Nutrition Information Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 96 Calories; 5g Fat (43.6% calories from fat); 1g Protein; 14g Carbohydrate; trace Dietary Fiber; 0 mg Cholesterol; 127mg Sodium. Exchanges: 0 Grain (Starch); 0 Lean Meat; 0 Vegetable; 1 Fat; 1 other Carbohydrates. Provided by the Paul Hall Center’s Lundeberg School of Seamanship September 2022 �Six Stewards Secure Recertified Status Six SIU members recently registered ground-breaking achievements in their respective careers by ascending to the highest rung of the steward department’s upgrade training ladder. Each carved their names in the chronicles of SIU history August 8 during the union’s monthly membership meeting in Piney Point, Maryland, when they graduated from the Paul Hall Center’s (PHC) Steward Recertification Program. Completing the two-week course, which is regarded as the school’s top steward department curriculum, were: Bryan Alvarez, Marlon Brown, Alexander Cordero, Sajid Foster, Bruce Johnson and Abraham Mills. During their training, each received instruction in a wide range of disciplines including computer technology, social responsibilities, leadership, Coast Guard updates, baking skills and other department-specific workshops on sanitation, nutrition and more. The course also offered insights on collective bargaining agreements, functions of the various departments within both the SIU and the Seafarers Plans, and the union’s affiliations with the Maritime Trades Department and its parent group, the AFL-CIO. In keeping with tradition, each of the newly minted recertified stewards addressed those in attendance at the membership meeting. During their presentations, they discussed their respective careers and offered valuable insights to the apprentices. They also expressed gratitude for the opportunities they have been afforded to enhance their skills, improve their lives and those of their families, and become better shipmates to their union brothers and sisters aboard SIU-contracted vessels. Collectively, they also thanked the union leadership for its continued support, and the PHC vocational and hotel staffs for providing excellent instruction and accommodations, respectively. Sajid Foster Foster was the first to take the podium. He sails out of the Port of Wilmington, California, and launched his SIU career in the Crescent City. “I started my career with the SIU in 1996 in New Orleans; I was 18 years old, fresh out of high school,” he said. The initial portion of Foster’s career was spent in the inland division, followed by his transition into deep-sea sailing. Throughout his career, the union “gave me many opportunities” the Louisiana native told those in attendance. “And after all of those, the SIU is still in my corner, still providing me with even more opportunities. I stand before you today as a living embodiment of the fact that hard work does pay off.” Foster told the trainees that they had the whole world before them: the opportunity to excel and have rewarding careers. “Stay strong and soak up everything that you have learned here at the school and that you will learn once aboard vessels at sea. The sky is the limit,” he said.” Foster advised all rank-and-file members to donate to SPAD, the SIU’s voluntary political action fund, so that the union’s leadership will have the resources they require in order to work on behalf of the membership’s best interests. Alexander Cordero Recertified Steward September 2022 Sajid Foster Recertified Steward Abraham Mills Recertified Steward Marlon Brown Recertified Steward Abraham Mills Mills signed on with the union in 1999. He currently ships out of the Port of Houston. “On my first ship, I sailed as a GVA (general vessel assistant),” he told the audience. “But in 2000, I came to the school here in Piney Point for galley operations.” From then until now, it’s been one positive after another for Mills, who hails originally from Sekondi Essikdu, Ghana. “The union has been a very important part of my life and benefitted me greatly,” he said. “Thanks to the SIU, I have been able to provide a great quality of life for my family.” Sending a shout-out to the union leadership, Mills thanked SIU President Michael Sacco, the regional vice presidents and the Paul Hall Center staff for the opportunity to enhance his kills in the Steward Recertification Program. He also expressed his appreciation to the union’s contracts department for successfully negotiating “good standard contract agreements.” To the trainees, he said; “Nobody is telling you that the road will be easy, but I do not believe that the union brought you this far just to leave you, so always do your best. Payday is coming.” the quality of life for me as well as that of my family.” He credited the union’s officials for providing and protecting jobs for members as well as the PHC instructors and staff for vocational training opportunities. Brown encouraged fellow members to back SPAD and also to exercise their right to vote during all elections. “To the trainees, please work hard while you are here,” he said. “And when you get out there aboard vessels, I advise you to keep your ears open and your mouths shut.” Bruce Johnson Johnson, whose home port also is Jacksonville, was the veteran of his class, having initially sailed aboard SIU-contracted vessels once in 1980 and again in1981 before returning to the SIU for the long hall in 1994. “I joined the SIU when I was 21 and have been sailing for 28 years,” he said. “I was here at Piney Point in Trainee Class 315.” Since becoming a Seafarer, Johnson said he has sailed the world as a chief steward. “The union has been instrumental in my life because it gave me what I was lacking: opportunity,” he said, “One which I have taken full advantage of.” Reflecting on his return to the PHC for recertification training, Johnson said: “I could not help but notice the amazing upgrades that I have now seen firsthand. When I started here, there were bungalows instead of this spectacular hotel … and look at the beautiful media center.” He thanked the PHC instructors for the knowledge they imparted on him and his classmates and the staff for providing outstanding accommodations. “The union leadership needs our help when it comes to protecting our industry and jobs,” he said in closing. “We need to always do our best on the job. We need to upgrade our skills and recognize that SPAD helps to hold all of us together.” Marlon Brown Brown joined the SIU ranks in 2000 and is home-ported in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. “It’s my distinct honor to be here today,” he told his peers upon taking the podium. “Likewise, I am thrilled to have this opportunity (to complete the PHC’s top steward department curriculum).” Brown acknowledged the major role the union has played in enhancing the quality of his life and also the positive impact that being a Seafarer has had on his family. “The union has been extremely important to me and my loved ones,” he said. “I can’t thank the SIU enough for all it has done to improve Alexander Cordero Cordero sails out of the Port of Jacksonville, Florida. Born in the Republic of the Philippines, he joined the union in 2003. Since joining the SIU, “I have substantially improved the quality of my life and that of my family as well,” he said. “I have also learned and experienced many positive things that helped me excel in my chosen career. “But my main goal really was to become a recertified steward,” he continued, “And thanks to the help of the SIU, that has been achieved today.” Cordero described his recertification training as a valuable commodity, noting “it opened my eyes on how the union operates. The information I received on contracts, medical benefits, pensions and the money purchase plan will prove invaluable when I return to work on the ship and interact with my co-workers and shipmates.” He added that he had experienced and seen firsthand the unmatched dedication exhibited by union leadership in looking out for the good of the rank-and-file. In closing, Cordero shared his belief that “it is through hard work and diligence that one may advance and improve in life and on the job.” In that spirit, he encouraged the trainees to do the same. “Never give up, never quit learning and work hard,” he said. Bruce Johnson Recertified Steward Bryan Alvarez Recertified Steward Bryan Alvarez Alvarez sails out of the Port of San Juan and has been an SIU member for 13 years. “I was a member of PHC Trainee Class 713 back in 2008 and was only 19 years old at the time,” he said. “I already had knowledge about the maritime industry because of my father, Bosun Julio Cesar Alvarez. That makes me a second-generation Seafarer and a legacy in the flesh thanks to the SIU.” Alvarez told the audience he has sailed aboard a variety of vessels while working for many different companies. “I did 232 days straight on the Noble Star, my first ship,” he said. “That vessel no longer exists, but the experience I gained on it while working with great shipmates from this union improved my skills significantly.” To continue honing and expanding his skills, Alvarez returns to the PHC every other year for upgrade training. “Consistency is key to success,” he told the trainees. “Remember, never settle for less when you can be so much more. “Amongst you are the future leaders for this industry,” he continued. “Waste no time and be as professional as you can be from day one…. Upgrading is a must.” Alvarez thanked everyone who played a role in making his steward recertification training possible, including union officials and his wife, Rubi Pacheco. “She worked with and supported me every step along the way,” he said. “I’m a father of three beautiful kids; thanks to her and the SIU, I have been able to provide them a good education and a good lifestyle.” In closing, Alvarez encouraged his brothers and sisters to support SPAD to ensure that the union leadership will continue to have the resources it requires to continue promoting and protecting the membership’s interests. “The SIU changes lives every day,” he said, “I am proof of that!” Seafarers LOG 7 �HONOLULU HALL Members Approve 5-Year Standard Contracts New Agreements Increase Wages, Maintain Benefits and Jobs By an overwhelming majority, SIU members have approved the new standard freightship and tanker agreements, details of which were reported in last month’s LOG. The five-year contracts feature wage increases and maintain benefits. They mandate shipboard internet access for all Seafarers; increase pension benefits for some of the more-experienced members; and preserve all existing SIU jobs. Pictured on this page and the two that follow are photos of members voting in favor of the contracts aboard ship and in the hiring halls (or shown shortly before or after doing so). SIU officials also appear in some of the photos. OREGON MAERSK KINLOSS MAERSK PEARY MARJORIE C 8 Seafarers LOG September 2022 �OHIO MAUNALEI OCEAN GRAND AMERICAN FREEDOM ARC COMMITMENT TACOMA HALL MISSOURI EXPRESS September 2022 Seafarers LOG 9 �RRF CREWS FROM CAPE ISLAND, CAPE INTREPID EMPIRE STATE EL COQUI MONTFORD POINT JERSEY CITY HALL OVERSEAS LOS ANGELES KEYSTONE STATE OVERSEAS BOSTON 10 Seafarers LOG USNS JOHN GLENN September 2022 �KUDOS TO CAPE INTREPID CREW – The SIU crew of the Ocean Duchess-operated ship recently received congratulations for a job well done during an activation. They got a letter from the Maritime Administration calling the sea trial “a great success due to a prime example of TEAMWORK…. Congratulations to all of you.” Recertified Bosun LBJ Tanoa added his kudos to everyone aboard during the mid-July operation and also thanked the Honolulu and Tacoma halls for filling the jobs. Pictured from left to right are (back row) SA Talama Moega, SA Rene Caballero, GVA Kassem Saleh, GUDE Israel Serrano, AB Nigel Williams, Electrician Phillip Greenwell, (front) Chief Cook Saleh Ahmed, GUDE Charles Bishop, Recertified Bosun LBJ Tanoa, AB Raul Molina and OS Nick Sabuco. MSC DIRECTOR TOURS SCHOOL – The SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education (PHC) recently hosted a high-ranking official from the U.S. Military Sealift Command. MSC Director of Total Force Management Gregg Pelowski (second from left) is pictured at the Piney Point, Maryland, facility with (from left) SIU VP Government Services Nicholas Celona, PHC VP Tom Orzechowski, PHC Director of Vocational Training and Education Priscilla Labanowski and PHC Instructor Wayne Johnson. At Sea and Ashore with the SIU ABOARD USNS CURTISS – Former Piney Point classmates Bosun Bryan Hayden (left) and SIU Wilmington Port Agent Gerret Jarman are pictured aboard the Crowley-operated vessel following a review and vote on the new standard contracts. They are graduates of apprentice Class 679, back in 2006. WELCOME ASHORE IN MOBILE – Bosun Cleveland West (center) is pictured at the hall with SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey (right) and SIU Port Agent Jimmy White. West sailed with the union for 31 years. SPRUCING UP IN SAN JUAN – Local Seafarers recently pitched in for some routine maintenance and cleaning at the hiring hall. QMED Richard Vega (left in photo at left) is pictured setting up for patio maintenance with SIU Asst. VP Amancio Crespo (standing). Pictured from left in the other photo are Crespo, Chief Cook Yoaquin Gonzalez and AB Edwin Pagan. September 2022 WELCOME ASHORE IN NORFOLK – Longtime Seafarer Tony Spain (left), a recertified steward, picks up his first pension check at the union’s temporary quarters in Virginia. SIU Government Services Division Representative Sam Spain is at right. Tony sailed with the SIU for 44 years. WELCOME ASHORE IN JACKSONVILLE – OMU Medardo Valerio (right) picks up his first pension check at the hiring hall. SIU Port Agent Ashley Nelson is at left. ABOARD SEA POWER – SIU Asst. VP Mike Russo (right) and AB Doug Crawford are pictured aboard the Eco-Tankers ATB in early August. Seafarers LOG 11 �Pictured from left are SIU Port Agent Warren Asp, Recertified Bosun Sanjay Gupta, SIU Administrative Assistant Joni Bradley, ABM Samed Kassem, SIU Patrolman George Owen, Bosun Francis Miller, ABG Obaid Ali, GUDE Abdulsalam Mohamed and Chief Cook Raul Ventanilla. ‘Paint Tacoma’ Project Returns with Flourish AB Mohamed Haruna Seafarers Help Brighten Community in Pacific Northwest A tradition in Tacoma, Washington, resumed this year after a two-year break, as SIU members and their families pitched in for a worthy cause. “After a two-year, COVID-19-induced hiatus, the Port of Tacoma was back, repainting a house for a local resident in need as part of the Associated Ministries program Paint Tacoma Beautiful,” said SIU Port Agent Warren Asp, who led the union’s effort. The program selects homeowners in the Greater Tacoma area (normally once per year), and sends volunteers to prep, power wash and repaint their respective homes, all free of charge. This year, the SIU members repainted the home of Crystal Jordan. “I received a postcard from the Associated Ministries, and I got in contact with them,” Jordan said. “They sent me an application, and after that I was put in contact with the SIU. “The whole experience was pretty nice,” she added. “The weather was cooperative, though after they did the pressure wash, there was a heat wave, which wasn’t their fault. The house is absolutely gorgeous now. The colors I chose were very, very pretty, and I’m very happy with it.” “This year definitely felt more important than past years, in helping us find a back-to-normal feeling as we see a way through the pandemic,” said Asp. “The membership here was like we never skipped a beat, including one member’s girlfriend that wanted to be involved in the program. As is customary for our members, across departments and cultures, port staff and active mariners, we had a total of 14 volunteers, who worked for four days and 103 total work hours.” The SIU volunteers included Asp, Safety Director Duane Akers, Patrolman George Owen, Port Administrative Assistant Joni Bradley, Recertified Bosuns Sanjay Gupta and Thomas MacGregor, Bosun Francis Miller (and his girlfriend, Candace Parlier), ABM Samed Kassem, AB Mohamed Haruna, ABG Obaid Ali, GUDE Abdulsalam Mohamed, Chief Cook Raul Ventanilla and SA Javier Wurttele. Asp added, “I would like to give a special shout out to Samed Kassem, whose family has been in the union for decades. He was involved for the entire evolution, from pressure washing to final painting. He gave ‘everything in the tank’ this year. The port has no plans of slowing, and looks forward to painting another house in 2023 and beyond.” “I’ve been involved multiple years, since probably 2016,” said Miller. “This year, I brought my girlfriend with me to help. On the second or third day, there was rain, but I went on the first day, and the weather was super hot and beautiful out. I’ve never seen a home get painted so fast; we were almost 50% done after the first day. “The homeowner was very nice, very pleasant when she met with us,” Miller continued. “I think she was really happy with the color she chose; it matched the colors of her plants and the surrounding greenery. I was responsible for the trim, stripping it down, scaling it and painting the trim all along the doors and windows.” When asked if he would volunteer for the next Paint Tacoma project, he replied, “If I’m home, they know they can call me and I’ll happily help out with this every year. I hope they invite more family members to help out next year, and really turn Paint Tacoma into a family affair.” 12 Seafarers LOG SIU Safety Director Duane Akers Recertified Bosun Thomas MacGregor Recertified Bosun Sanjay Gupta (left) and Bosun Francis Miller SIU Patrolman George Owen is pictured above while the photo at immediate left shows GUDE Abdulsalam Mohamed (left) and ABG Obaid Ali. Homeowner Crystal Jordan (left) and SIU Port Agent Warren Asp September 2022 SA Javier Wurttele September 2022 Seafarers LOG 13 �Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings CALIFORNIA (Intrepid Personnel & Provisioning), June 22 – Chairman Kenneth Abrahamson, Secretary Gerald Kirtsey, Educational Director Jonathan Collier, Deck Delegate Russell Hayden, Engine Delegate Raymond Roldan, Steward Delegate Keith Hall. New Wi-Fi system to be installed soon. Standard tanker agreement is almost complete. Secretary thanked crew for help with recent stores. Educational director reminded members to upgrade at the Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Ship to receive new recliners for lounges and cabins. Copies of new contracts were requested by bosun. Members requested increases in vacation and pension benefits and for physicals to be required annually. Steward department was thanked for great meals. Next port: Valdez, Alaska. LOUISIANA (Intrepid Personnel & Provisioning), July 5 – Chairman Kennard Campbell, Secretary Benjamin Piker, Educational Director Kevin Hall, Engine Delegate Stephen Jenkins, Steward Delegate Bernard Lawes. Chairman advised crew to get physicals as soon as possible after signing off. New contract for standard shipping is out as of July 1. Educational director reminded members to keep documents up to date and to upgrade at the Piney Point school. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Wi-Fi needed on ship. Crew discussed issues with job reliefs being filled on time. Members requested more vacation time and for retirement to be based on base wage of rating. Next port: Anacortes, Washington. MATSON TACOMA (Horizon Lines, LLC), July 8 – Chairman Alfie Cicat, Secretary Lovie Perez, Educational Director Jason Powell, Steward Delegate Nasser The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted. Ships’ minutes first are reviewed by the union’s contract department. Those issues requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the union upon receipt of the ships’ minutes. The minutes are then forwarded to the Seafarers LOG for publication. Ahmed. Chairman recapped the new contract. He urged crew to pay dues on time and to contribute to SPAD (Seafarers Political Activities Donation, the union’s voluntary political action fund). Secretary directed members to the SIU online portal for updates to documents, direct deposit of vacation checks, etc. Educational director advised members to obtain substantial wage increases by upgrading often at the Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members requested an increase in pension. Next port: Tacoma, Washington. MAERSK SELETAR (Maersk Line, Limited), July 10 – Chairman Ion Irimia, Secretary Ronald Byrd, Educational Director Jeffrey Thrash, Deck Delegate Samuel Pedrosa, Engine Delegate Jason Fuller, Steward Delegate Julian De Los Santos. Chairman reviewed ship fund and asked for a round of applause to steward department for a job well done. He reported a great trip despite hot weather during shipyard period. Secretary advised members to stay on top of all documents. Educational director urged crew to upgrade at the Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Converter boxes/transformers needed in each stateroom. Members requested new mattresses, pillows and linens. Crew asked for wage and vacation increases and would like medical to be added to retirement. Members expressed frustration with CHS not handling physicals fast enough. The need for high-speed internet was mentioned as well as the ability to bid for jobs online. PELICAN STATE (Intrepid Personnel & Provisioning), July 10 – Chairman Brandon Albro, Secretary Josue Iglesia, Educational Director David Garrett, Engine Delegate Mathew Palmer, Steward Delegate John Noel. New contract should be coming soon as well as Wi-Fi. Secretary reminded members to renew documents in advance. Educational director encouraged crew to upgrade at the union-affiliated Piney Point school and to donate to SPAD. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew discussed several proposals for new five-year standard freightship and tanker agreements. Topics included pay increases, Wi-Fi access aboard all vessels, more vacation days, and updates to permanent and/or rotary job calls for trip tour reliefs. Members suggested splitting Gulf Coast job board equally between Florida hiring halls and asked to access all contracts via the membership portal. MAERSK PEARY (Maersk Line, Limited), July 13 – Chairman Ronald Paradise, Secretary Jorge Roman Feliciano. Ship crew awarded MSC plaque for excellent work during past underway replenishments. Members received a nice pay raise thanks to the new contract. Educational director urged crew to upgrade at the Piney Point school. He informed members that passports can be expedited by filling out a special union-provided form. New microwave and electric smoker can be purchased in the near future per ship treasurer. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Many underway replenishments to come in Hawaii. Crew requested better Wi-Fi, TVs and refrigerators in all rooms, and power converters. MAERSK KINLOSS (Maersk Line, Limited), July 16 – Chairman Rufino Giray, Secretary Caezar Mercado, Educational Director Tijani Rashid, Deck Delegate John Worae, Engine Delegate Ian Jordan. Chairman thanked steward department for a job well done. He recommended members to Aboard USNS Button Recertified Bosun Greg Jackson (left) submitted this photo from the Crowley-operated ship along with kudos for AB Octavio Henriques (center) and Second Mate Joseph Fiore. upgrade at the Piney Point school and to check credentials. Secretary reminded crew about new policy regarding returning jobs. New fans needed for crew. Members requested additional vacation pay and medical benefits. ALASKAN NAVIGATOR (Alaska Tanker Company), July 17 – Chairman Adel Ahmed, Secretary Albert Sison, Educational Director Leland Peterson, Deck Delegate Ahmed Al-Arashi, Engine Delegate Charles Walker, Steward Delegate Nasr Almusab. Chairman encouraged crew to vote on proposed contract. Members shared bad experiences with CHS medical and voiced their opinions of new contract. Secretary reminded crew to keep mess hall and laundry room clean. Educational director advised members to attend upgrading courses at the Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Better Wi-Fi service needed as well as new TVs in some rooms. Members suggested several improvements to health and vacation benefits and requested an increase in vacation days. Crew would like the ability to file for vacation after 30 days of employment and for an equal pay scale across all entry level positions. Next port: Cherry Point, Washington. Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The Constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership’s money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the secretary-treasurer. A yearly finance committee of rank-and-file members, elected by the membership, each year examines the finances of the union and reports fully their findings and recommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District are administered in accordance with the provisions of various trust fund agreements. All these agreements specify that the trustees in charge of these funds shall equally consist of union and management representatives and their alternates. All expenditures and disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval by a majority of the trustees. All trust fund financial records are available at the headquarters of the various trust funds. SHIPPING RIGHTS. A member’s shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively by contracts between the union and the employers. Members should get to know their shipping rights. Copies of these contracts are posted and available in all union halls. If members believe there have been violations of their shipping or seniority rights as contained in the contracts between the union and the employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified mail, return receipt 14 Seafarers LOG requested. The proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Capital Gateway Drive Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers Appeals Board. CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU contracts are available in all SIU halls. These contracts specify the wages and conditions under which an SIU member works and lives aboard a ship or boat. Members should know their contract rights, as well as their obligations, such as filing for overtime (OT) on the proper sheets and in the proper manner. If, at any time, a member believes that an SIU patrolman or other union official fails to protect their contractual rights properly, he or she should contact the nearest SIU port agent. EDITORIAL POLICY — THE SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful to the union or its collective membership. This established policy has been reaffirmed by membership action at the September 1960 meetings in all constitutional ports. The responsibility for Seafarers LOG policy is vested in an editorial board which consists of the executive board of the union. The executive board may delegate, from among its ranks, one individual to carry out this responsibility. PAYMENT OF MONIES. No monies are to be paid to anyone in any official capacity in the SIU unless an official union receipt is given for same. Under no circumstances should any member pay any money for any reason unless he is given such receipt. In the event anyone attempts to require any such payment be made without supplying a receipt, or if a member is required to make a payment and is given an official receipt, but feels that he or she should not have been required to make such payment, this should immediately be reported to union headquarters. CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS. Copies of the SIU Constitution are available in all union halls. All members should obtain copies of this constitution so as to familiarize themselves with its contents. Any time a member feels any other member or officer is attempting to deprive him or her of any constitutional right or obligation by any methods, such as dealing with charges, trials, etc., as well as all other details, the member so affected should immediately notify headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU Constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Consequently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION (SPAD). SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and purposes including, but not limited to, furthering the political, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and furthering of the American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect and further his or her economic, political and social interests, and American trade union concepts. NOTIFYING THE UNION — If at any time a member feels that any of the above rights have been violated, or that he or she has been denied the constitutional right of access to union records or information, the member should immediately notify SIU President Michael Sacco at headquarters by certified mail, return receipt requested. The address is: Michael Sacco, President Seafarers International Union 5201 Capital Gateway Drive Camp Springs, MD 20746 September 2022 �Notice/Reminder: USCG Positive Drug Test Advisory Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea “Total Registered” and “Total Shipped” data is cumulative from July 15 - August 15. “Registered on the Beach” data is as of August 15. Port A Total Registered Total Shipped All Groups All Groups B C A B Registered on Beach Trip C Reliefs All Groups A B C The U.S. Coast Guard first issued the following advisory in 2020. It remains current and is reprinted here as a reminder. Potential for Positive Drug Test Result From Use of Hemp-Plant Products This Marine Safety Advisory is to ensure that mariners, marine employers, and sponsoring organizations are aware that some products marketed as hemp or cannabidiol (CBD) may contain enough tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) to cause a positive drug test. In accordance with 46 CFR 16.201(c), an individual who fails a chemical test for dangerous drugs must be removed from duties directly affecting the safe operation of the vessel, and is subject to suspension and revocation proceedings against his or her credential under 46 CFR part 5. Use of hemp or CBD products is not accepted as an affirmative defense (acceptable excuse) against a THC-positive drug test result. For these reasons, mariners wishing to avoid a positive THC drug test result should exercise extreme caution when considering the use of any hemp or CBD product because such use could result in the loss of their merchant mariner credential and immediate removal from safety sensitive duties aboard a vessel. This warning applies to hemp and CBD products in any form, including those that are taken by mouth and those that are applied to the skin. THC is the primary psychoactive component of the Cannabis sativa plant. Hemp and marijuana are different strains of the Cannabis sativa plant and both contain varying concentrations of THC and CBD. THC is considered a dangerous drug because it produces an intoxicating effect on the user and poses safety-risks to vessel operations. The U.S. Coast Guard prohibits THC use by mariners because of its known debilitating effects, and all U.S. Coast Guardrequired drug tests screen mariners for use of THC. Recent changes to Federal and State laws have resulted in a surge in the availability of over-the-counter hemp products and CBD products throughout the United States. Hemp products and CBD products are marketed to the general public in several forms such as food and medicinal products, dietary supplements, oils, cosmetics, and hair products. In some cases, product manufacturers market these products as low in THC, or THC-free. Mariners should be aware that over-the-counter hemp products and CBD products have not been approved as medications by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and are not regulated by the FDA. Therefore, users lack federal assurances of their ingredients, THC-content, quality, effectiveness, or safe use. As a result, mariners using these products put themselves at risk of having a THC-positive drug test result. It remains unacceptable for any U.S Coast Guard credentialed mariner or other safety-sensitive worker working aboard a vessel that is subject to U.S Coast Guard drug testing regulations to use THC. Claimed use of hemp products or CBD products is not an acceptable defense for a THC-positive drug test result. To learn more about the risks of hemp and CBD products visit the FDA website at https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/what-you-needknow-and-what-were-working-find-outabout-products-containingcannabis-or-cannabis. This Safety Advisory was developed by the U.S. Coast Guard Office of Investigations and Analysis. Questions or comments should be sent to: DAPI@uscg.mil. September & October Membership Meetings Piney Point...............*Tuesday: September 6, Monday: October 3 Algonac...................................Friday: September 9, October 7 Baltimore............................Thursday: September 8, October 6 Guam...............................Thursday: September 22, October 20 Honolulu.............................Friday: September 16, October 14 Houston...............Monday: September 12, *Tuesday: October 11 Jacksonville.......................Thursday: September 8, October 6 Joliet..................................Thursday: September 15, October 13 Mobile.........................Wednesday: September 14, October 12 New Orleans........................Tuesday: September 13, October 11 Jersey City............................Tuesday: September 6, October 4 Norfolk..................................Friday: September 9, October 7 Oakland..............................Thursday: September 15 , October 13 Philadelphia........................Wednesday: September 7, October 5 Port Everglades..................Thursday: September 15, October 13 San Juan..............................Thursday: September 8, October 6 St. Louis...............................Friday: September 16, October 14 Tacoma...............................Friday: September 23, October 21 Wilmington....................Monday: September 19, October 17 * Piney Point change in September due to Labor Day observance * Houston change in October due to Columbus Day observance Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m September 2022 Seafarers LOG 15 �Seafarers International Union Directory Inquiring Seafarer Michael Sacco, President Augustin Tellez, Executive Vice President David Heindel, Secretary-Treasurer George Tricker, Vice President Contracts Tom Orzechowski, Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters This month’s question was answered by Seafarers in Piney Point, Maryland. Question: What’s something you experienced on a ship that you weren’t expecting? Dean Corgey, Vice President Gulf Coast Nicholas J. Marrone, Vice President West Coast Joseph T. Soresi, Vice President Atlantic Coast Nicholas Celona, Vice President Government Services HEADQUARTERS 5201 Capital Gateway Drive Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr., Algonac, MI 48001 (810) 794-4988 ANCHORAGE 721 Sesame St., #1C, Anchorage, AK 99503 (907) 561-4988 BALTIMORE 2315 Essex St., Baltimore, MD 21224 (410) 327-4900 GUAM P.O. Box 3328, Hagatna, Guam 96932 Cliffline Office Ctr. Bldg., Suite 103B 422 West O’Brien Dr., Hagatna, Guam 96910 (671) 477-1350 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St., Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 625 N. York St., Houston, TX 77003 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 5100 Belfort Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32256 (904) 281-2622 JERSEY CITY 104 Broadway, Jersey City, NJ 07306 (201) 434-6000 JOLIET 10 East Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432 (815) 723-8002 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605 (251) 478-0916 NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 NORFOLK 111 Mill Creek Parkway, Suite 100, Chesapeake, VA 23323 (757) 622-1892 OAKLAND 1121 7th St., Oakland, CA 94607 (510) 444-2360 Kobe Cisero Chief Cook The different types of people and cultures you meet on a ship. I like it, though. It’s fascinating learning about those cultures from the people themselves both on a ship and ashore in a foreign country. Dominic Jones Wiper Being away from my son is way harder than I thought it would be. You have to grow up quick when you join the Seafarers. But it makes my time at home that much more important to me. Quinsha Davis Chief Cook The job is harder than it looks! Working in the steward department isn’t just throwing stuff together, it’s a whole job. It requires a lot of skill and training to do the job properly. Jared Johnson Oiler I don’t stress on ships. I take it one day at a time, and don’t worry about it. It helps to always keep a positive mental attitude, and keep your head up. Daniel Ursitti GUDE When things go awry, or there’s an emergency in the engine room, everything gets pushed to the side. All your interpersonal issues don’t matter anymore, and everyone bands together to fix the issue. Nothing else matters but the task at hand. Ashley Grahm Chief Cook I was pleasantly surprised to find I had so much free time. I was able to travel and see all kinds of places and try new things. Plus, the bragging rights over all the places you’ve been aren’t bad. But as long as you can maintain your drive, this career can really take care of you for life. William McIntyre AB A lot is different. Standing watch, tying knots, all of that is important – but you also have to be a good crew. You have to help out your fellow mariners, and do your duty, and the rest will take care of itself. Leanne Smith Chief Steward I went on the ship alone, and I came back with close friends. You spend enough time on the same ship, with the same crew, and they become family. But it’s still important to come back and upgrade your skills, and when you’re on a ship, help out your fellow sailor. Pics From The Past PHILADELPHIA 2604 S. 4 St., Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT 45353 St. George’s Avenue, Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 1221 S. Andrews Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 522-7984 SAN JUAN 659 Hill Side St., Summit Hills San Juan, PR 00920 (787) 721-4033 ST. LOUIS/ALTON 4581 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 TACOMA 3411 South Union Ave., Tacoma, WA 98409 (253) 272-7774 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave., Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4001/4002 16 Seafarers LOG Billed as “the largest ship ever built in the Western Hemisphere,” the SIU-crewed U.S.T. Atlantic (above, right) formally was christened in February 1979 at Newport News (Virginia) Shipbuilding. The LOG’s coverage of the ceremony noted the ship “has an overall length of 1,187 feet and a beam of 228 feet)…. She is 95 feet from keel to main deck and will have a draft of over 70 feet when fully loaded.” The crude carrier, built for U.S. Trust and leased to Shell, was operated by Interocean Management Corp. and carried an unlicensed crew of 32. Elizabeth Kemp Renner, wife of Shell Oil board of directors member William Renner, is pictured christening the ship (photo at left). If anyone has a vintage union-related photograph he or she would like to share with other Seafarers LOG readers, please send it to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Capital Gateway Drive, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Photographs will be returned, if so requested. High-resolution digital images may be sent to webmaster@seafarers.org September 2022 �Welcome Ashore Each month, the Seafarers LOG pays tribute to the SIU members who have devoted their working lives to sailing aboard U.S.-flag vessels on the deep seas, inland waterways or Great Lakes. Listed below are brief biographical sketches of those members who recently retired from the union. The brothers and sisters of the SIU thank those members for a job well done and wish them happiness and good health in the days ahead. DEEP SEA ABDOULLA ALSSOUDI Brother Abdoulla Alssoudi, 65, started his career with the union in 1999 when he shipped on the USNS Silas Bent. A deck department member, he upgraded at the Piney Point school on multiple occasions. Brother Alssoudi most recently sailed on the William R. Button. He makes his home in Brooklyn, New York. WILLIAM BELCHER Brother William Belcher, 65, joined the SIU in 1981, when he sailed aboard the Benjamin Harrison. He upgraded at the Paul Hall Center on multiple occasions and shipped in the steward department. Brother Belcher last worked on the Padre Island. He is a resident of Norfolk, Virginia. MICHAEL BRISCOE Brother Michael Briscoe, 66, began sailing with the union in 1992, initially on the Independence. He shipped in the steward department and upgraded at the union-affiliated Piney Point school on multiple occasions. Brother Briscoe most recently sailed on the USNS Watkins. He lives in Thayne, Wyoming. ALLEN COOPER Brother Allen Cooper, 67, signed on with the SIU in 1973 when he sailed aboard the Fort Hoskins. He shipped in the engine department and upgraded at the Paul Hall Center within his first year of membership. Brother Cooper last sailed on the Eugene A. Obregon. He resides in Wesley Chapel, Florida. ISMAEL GAMBOA Brother Ismael Gamboa, 65, became a member of the Seafarers International Union in 2009. A deck department member, he first shipped on the Observation Island. Brother Gamboa’s final vessel was the USNS Denebola. He resides in Newport News, Virginia. DIANA HOUSE Sister Diana House, 65, embarked on her career with the Seafarers in 2001 and initially sailed on the Quality. She was a member of the steward department and upgraded September 2022 at the Paul Hall Center on several occasions. Sister House most recently shipped on the Liberty Promise and lives in Houston. ment. Brother Miller upgraded at the Piney Point school on numerous occasions. He last sailed on the Global Mariner and is a Baltimore resident. WILLIAM MOGG RAFAEL LEON ORTIZ Brother Rafael Leon Ortiz, 67, began sailing with the union in 2009 when he shipped on the Sam Laud. He was a member of the engine department and upgraded at the Piney Point school on numerous occasions. Brother Leon Ortiz last sailed on the Isla Bella. He lives in Aguadilla, Puerto Rico. MOSTAFA LOUMRHARI Brother Mostafa Loumrhari, 70, joined the SIU in 1990 when he sailed on the Independence. He sailed in the steward department and upgraded at the Paul Hall Center on multiple occasions. Brother Loumrhari concluded his career on the Manukai and makes his home in Las Vegas. GAMAL MEAWAD Brother Gamal Meawad, 65, signed on with the union in 2009. He first sailed aboard the President Adams and worked in the steward department. Brother Meawad upgraded at the Piney Point school on numerous occasions. He last shipped on the Maersk Memphis and is a resident of Brooklyn, New York. MICHAEL MERRELL Brother Michael Merrell, 66, began sailing with the Seafarers in 1990, initially shipping aboard the Courier. He sailed in the deck department and upgraded at the Paul Hall Center on multiple occasions. Brother Merrell last shipped aboard the Maersk Idaho. He lives in Oklahoma City. STEVEN MILLER Brother Steven Miller, 65, donned the SIU colors in 1977. He first sailed aboard the Overseas Alaska and worked in the engine depart- Brother William Mogg, 65, began his career with the SIU in 1989. An engine department member, he initially sailed with Inland Lakes Management. Brother Mogg upgraded at the Paul Hall Center on multiple occasions. He most recently shipped aboard the North Star and resides in University Place, Washington. MICHAEL NOVAK Brother Michael Novak, 65, started sailing with the union in 1985, initially shipping on the USNS Stalwart. He sailed in the engine department and concluded his career aboard the USNS Bold. Brother Novak makes his home in Bellevue, Washington. PAUL PAGANO Brother Paul Pagano, 61, joined the union in 1991 and first sailed aboard the Libra. He was a member of the engine department and upgraded often at the Piney Point school. Brother Pagano last shipped aboard the Alliance Fairfax. He lives in Palm Coast, Florida. JESSIE PARENTE Brother Jessie Parente, 65, embarked on his career with the Seafarers in 2003. He upgraded on multiple occasions at the Paul Hall Center and sailed in the engine department. Brother Parente’s first vessel was the Buffalo; his last, the Ocean Glory. He makes his home in La Grange Park, Illinois. RUBEN RIVERA Brother Ruben Rivera, 65, became a member of the Seafarers International Union in 2006, initially sailing aboard the Westward Venture. He worked in the deck department and upgraded at the Piney Point school on several occasions. Brother Rivera’s final vessel was the Maersk Chicago. He resides in Flushing, New York. TONY SPAIN Brother Tony Spain, 63, signed on with the SIU in 1978. He initially shipped with Inland Tugs and was a steward department member. Brother Spain upgraded at the Paul Hall Center on multiple occasions. He most recently sailed on the Maersk Peary and resides in Chesapeake, Virginia. BOYD SPIVEY Brother Boyd Spivey, 66, started his career with the Seafarers in 2003 and first sailed aboard the Cape Texas. A deck department member, Brother Spivey upgraded often at the Piney Point school. He last shipped on the Missouri Express and makes his home in Houston. LARRY STEVENS Brother Larry Stevens, 68, signed on with the union in 1987. He initially sailed aboard the William Baugh and worked in the deck department. Brother Stevens upgraded at the Paul Hall Center in 2002. He concluded his career aboard the Ocean Giant and settled in Lynn Haven, Florida. GERMAN VALERIO Brother German Valerio, 65, joined the SIU in 1984 and first sailed with Delta Queen Steamboat Company. He upgraded at the Piney Point school on multiple occasions and shipped in engine department. Brother Valerio last sailed on the Overseas Philadelphia and makes his home in Houston. INLAND ROMOLO DICESARE Brother Romolo Dicesare, 62, donned the SIU colors in 2014. A deck department member, he was employed by Harley Marine for the duration of his career. Brother Dicesare is a resident of Wallingford, Connecticut. DENNIS GASKILL Brother Dennis Gaskill, 64, embarked on his career with the Seafar- ers in 1992 when he shipped with CG Willis, Inc. He was a member of the deck department and upgraded often at the Piney Point school. Brother Gaskill was last employed by Express Marine. He makes his home in Bayboro, North Carolina. RUDOLPH HOUDEK Brother Rudolph Houdek, 64, signed on with the union in 1981. He upgraded at the Paul Hall Center within his first year of membership and sailed in the engine department. Brother Houdek was employed with Crowley Towing and Transportation for his entire career. He lives in Bayport, New York. RANDY ISENHART Brother Randy Isenhart, 61, joined the Seafarers International Union in 1989. He was a member of the deck department and first sailed with OSG Ship Management. Brother Isenhart upgraded at the Piney Point school on numerous occasions. He was most recently employed by Intrepid Personnel and Provisioning and lives in West Cape May, New Jersey. DAVID KANE Brother David Kane, 59, started sailing with the Seafarers in 1996. He was a deck department member and upgraded at the Paul Hall Center on multiple occasions. Brother Kane worked for Penn Maritime for the duration of his career. He resides in Knotts Island, North Carolina. LUIS PEREZ MENENDEZ Brother Luis Perez Menendez, 62, signed on with the union in 1996. He first sailed with Crowley Puerto Rico Services and was a member of the deck department. Brother Menendez upgraded at the union-affiliated Piney Point school on multiple occasions. He was last employed by Crowley Towing and Transportation and makes his home in Hatillo, Puerto Rico. GARY PIERCE Brother Gary Pierce, 65, joined the SIU in 1975. He was first employed by Allied Transportation and sailed in the deck department. Brother Pierce upgraded at the Paul Hall Center in 1977. He concluded his career with OSG Ship Management and resides in Chesapeake, Virginia. Seafarers LOG 17 �Final Departures DEEP SEA HANS EKROTH Pensioner Hans Ekroth, 93, passed away July 16. He signed on with the Seafarers International Union in 1952. Initially sailing aboard the Longview Victory, Brother Ekroth was an engine department member. He last shipped aboard the Gem State and went on pension in 1991. Brother Ekroth was a resident of Lynnwood, Washington. JERRY FRIZZELL Pensioner Jerry Frizzell, 81, died June 27. He donned the SIU colors in 1990 and sailed in the deck department. Brother Frizzell’s first vessel was the Cleveland; his last, the Buffalo Soldier. He became a pensioner in 2004 and settled in Lake Charles, Louisiana. MARVIN JAMES Brother Marvin James, 54, has passed away. He began his career with the Seafarers in 1987 when he shipped on the USNS Kane. Brother James worked in the steward department and most recently sailed on the Independence. He lived in Jacksonville, Florida. ANTONIO MARTES Pensioner Antonio Martes, 80, died August 8. Brother Martes became a member of the SIU in 1967, initially sailing aboard the Steel Scientist. He was an engine department member and concluded his career aboard the Sealand Express. Brother Martes retired in 2007 and called Brooklyn, New York, home. JACKIE MCDANIEL Pensioner Jackie McDaniel, 82, passed away August 8. He embarked on his career with the union in 1961 when he worked with Moore-McCormack Lines. A deck department member, Brother McDaniel last shipped 18 Seafarers LOG on the Quality in 1998. He went on pension the same year and lived in Angleton, Texas. CELSO ORDONEZ Pensioner Celso Ordonez, 68, died June 14. He joined the Seafarers International Union in 1998 and first shipped on the Cape Florida. Brother Ordonez primarily sailed in the deck department and concluded his career aboard the Freedom in 2008. He became a pensioner in 2019 and settled in Miami. VAN PHAN Pensioner Van Phan, 83, passed away July 13. He signed on with the SIU in 1981, initially working with Sealand. Brother Phan sailed in the engine department and also worked on shore gangs. He concluded his career with World Crane Services and retired in 2002. He made his home in Long Beach, California. KARL MAYHEW Brother Karl Mayhew, 62, died June 19. He became a member of the SIU in 2001. A deck department member, Brother Mayhew first shipped on the Cape Juby. He most recently sailed aboard the Maersk Columbus and resided in Ogdensburg, New York. ROBERT VAZQUEZ Pensioner Robert Vazquez, 61, passed away August 2. He began sailing with the Seafarers International Union in 1989 when he shipped on the Rover. Brother Vazquez was a deck department member. He last sailed aboard the Maersk Yorktown and went on pension in 2020. Brother Vazquez was a New York City resident. JERRY WOOD Pensioner Jerry Wood, 90, passed away May 7. He signed on with the SIU in 1951 and first sailed aboard the Louis Emery Jr. Brother Wood was a steward department member. He last shipped on the Stephen W. Pless before going on pension in 1995. Brother Wood lived in Virginia Beach, Virginia. GREAT LAKES RONALD DEROUIN Pensioner Ronald Derouin, 69, died July 13. He joined the SIU in 1998. For the majority of his career, Brother Derouin sailed with Upper Lakes Towing. He retired in 2016 and resided in Gladstone, Michigan. JOHN KRUSE Pensioner John Kruse, 93, passed away August 9. Brother Kruse signed on with the union in 1960. He first sailed with American Steamship and was a steward department member. Brother Kruse was last employed by Great Lakes Associates and retired in 1988. He made his home in Two Rivers, Wisconsin. DAWN WEYMOUTH Sister Dawn Weymouth, 75, died July 19. She started sailing with the Seafarers International Union in 1990. Sister Weymouth was a steward department member. Her first vessel was the Southdown Challenger; her last, the American Mariner. Sister Weymouth resided in Inverness, Florida. INLAND ROBERT CUOCO Pensioner Robert Cuoco, 68, passed away July 15. He joined the SIU in 1990 and first shipped on the Cove Liberty. Brother Cuoco worked in the deck department. He concluded his career aboard the Northerly Island and went on pension in 2015. Brother Cuoco lived in Tamworth, New Hampshire. BRUCE GOUGH Pensioner Bruce Gough, 83, died July 15. He signed on with the Seafarers in 1989 and sailed in the deck department. Brother Gough worked for Crowley Towing and Transportation for the duration of his career. He went on pension in 2001 and was a Las Vegas resident. LAURIE JACKSON Brother Laurie Jackson, 63, passed away June 4. He became an SIU member in 2007 and shipped in the deck department. Brother Jackson sailed with Penn Maritime for the duration of his career. He called Laurel, Mississippi, home. WILLIE MCCARDLE Pensioner Willie McCardle, 94, died June 30. A member of the deck department, he joined the union in 1962. Brother McCardle sailed with National Marine Service for most of his career. He became a pensioner in 1985 and settled in Metairie, Louisiana. GERALD SHARP Pensioner Gerald Sharp, 89, passed away July 2. Brother Sharp joined the Seafarers in 1972 when he worked with Pudget Sound. He sailed in the steward department and concluded his career aboard the Rover. Brother Sharp became a pensioner in 1996 and resided in Avon Park, Florida. DONALD TODD Pensioner Donald Todd, 78, died July 4. He embarked on his career with the union in 1975. An engine department member, Brother Todd worked for Cape Fear Towing for the duration of his career. He retired in 2006 and settled in Wilmington, North Carolina. NMU EDWARD GAILLARD Pensioner Edward Gaillard, 77, died July 5. He sailed with the NMU prior to the 2001 merger with the SIU. Brother Gaillard was a steward department member. He last sailed aboard the Navigator and retired in 2009. Brother Gaillard resided in Charleston, South Carolina. In addition to the foregoing individuals, the following union members have also passed away. Insufficient information was available to develop summaries of their respective careers. NAME Guidry, Horace Hidalgo, Adam Hopkins, Harold Jackson, Anthony Jawad, Muhanna Jones, Victor Martinez, Genaro Pokorski, Lavern Rivers, William Smith, Charles Stuart, Richard Vazquez, Efrain AGE 81 101 74 94 84 101 90 97 87 79 96 98 DOD 07/09/2022 07/16/2022 07/22/2022 07/27/2022 11/07/2021 05/25/2022 07/08/2022 06/28/2022 07/24/2022 06/25/2022 07/02/2022 07/29/2022 Have You Missed An Issue of the Log? PDF versions of nearly every edition are available at seafarerslog.org You can also scan this QR code to go directly to the website. September 2022 �Paul Hall Center Upgrading Course Dates The following is a list of courses that currently are scheduled to be held at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Maryland during the next several months. More courses may be added. Course additions and cancellations are subject to change due to COVID-19 protocols. All programs are geared toward improving the job skills of Seafarers and promoting the American maritime industry. Seafarers who have any questions regarding the upgrading courses offered at the Paul Hall Center may call the admissions office at (301) 994-0010. Title of Course Start Date Date of Completion Safety/Open Upgrading Courses Medical Care Provider September 26 September 30 Basic Training October 3 October 7 Date of Completion Basic Training Revalidation October 7 October 21 November 14 December 2 October 7 October 21 November 14 December 2 October 17 November 28 November 4 December 16 Basic Training/Adv. FF Revalidation December 12 December 16 Government Vessels Radar/ARPA October 10 October 21 Lifeboat/Water Survival September 26 October 24 November 21 October 7 November 4 December 2 September 19 September 26 October 17 October 24 November 7 December 5 September 23 September 30 October 21 October 28 November 10 December 9 RFPNW September 26 November 14 October 14 December 2 Tank Ship-DL (PIC) October 24 October 28 Tank Ship Familiarization DL October 24 October 28 Advanced Meteorology September 12 September 16 Tank Ship Familiarization LG October 31 November 4 Title of Course Start Date Deck Department Upgrading Courses Able Seafarer-Deck Engine Department Upgrading Courses RFPEW September 26 November 14 October 21 December 9 FOWT October 24 November 18 Junior Engineer September 19 November 11 Marine Electrician October 31 December 2 Marine Refer Tech September 19 October 28 Welding October 31 November 18 Steward Department Upgrading Courses Certified Chief Cook September 19 October 31 December 5 October 21 December 2 January 5 ServSafe Management September 12 October 24 November 28 September 16 October 28 December 2 Advanced Galley Operations October 10 November 4 Chief Steward September 12 November 14 October 7 December 9 Safety/Open Upgrading Courses Combined Basic/Advanced Firefighting September 19 Students who have registered for classes at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, but later discover - for whatever reason - that they can’t attend, should inform the admissions department immediately so arrangements can be made to have other students take their places September 23 UPGRADING APPLICATION Name ________________________________________________________________________ Address ______________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ Telephone (Home)_________________________ (Cell)_________________________ Date of Birth __________________________________________________________________ Deep Sea Member o Lakes Member o Inland Waters Member o If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security #_______________________ Book #_________________________________ Seniority_____________________________ Department_____________________________ Home Port____________________________________________________________________ E-mail_______________________________________________________________________ Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held_____________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ Are you a graduate of the SHLSS/PHC trainee program? o Yes o No If yes, class # and dates attended __________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? oYes o No _____________________________________________________________________________ With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty-five (125) days seatime for the previous year, MMC, TWIC, front page of your book including your department and seniority and qualifying sea time for the course if it is Coast Guard tested. Must have a valid SHBP clinic through course date. I authorize the Paul Hall Center to release any of the information contained in this application, or any of the supporting documentation that I have or will submit with this application to related organizations, for the purpose of better servicing my needs and helping me to apply for any benefits which might become due to me. September 2022 Important Notice To All Students COURSE ____________________________ ____________________________ START DATE _______________ _______________ DATE OF COMPLETION ________________________ ________________________ ____________________________ _______________ ________________________ ____________________________ _______________ ________________________ ____________________________ _______________ ________________________ ____________________________ _______________ ________________________ LAST VESSEL: ___________________________________ Rating: ____________________ Date On: _______________________________ Date Off:____________________________ SIGNATURE ____________________________________ DATE______________________ NOTE: Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only if you present original receipts and successfully complete the course. If you have any questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. Not all classes are reimbursable. Return completed application to: Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education Admissions Office, Email:upgrading@seafarers.org Mail: 45353 St. George’s Ave., Piney Point, MD 20674 Fax: 301-994-2189. The Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education is a private, non-profit, equal opportunity institution and admits students, who are otherwise qualified, or any race, nationality or sex. The school complies with applicable laws with regard to admission, access or treatment of students in its programs or activities. 9/22 Seafarers LOG 19 �Paul Hall Center Classes Apprentice Water Survival Class #884 – Graduated July 15 (above, in alphabetical order): Jevon David, Da’Shon Hagans, Bryan Halista, Raheem Harris-Stewart, Christian Marty, Evan Murff, Malik Perez, Timothy Resultan, Masaddiq Walton and Faith Wood. UA to Able Seaman-Deck – Graduated July 15 (above, in alphabetical order): Georgia Bussink, Paul Calcaterra, Jaquaz Del Vako Javon Jenkins, Martin Roi Briones Morales, Christopher Nicolosi, Anoalo Tuimanua Stanley and Garrett Williams. 20 Seafarers LOG September 2022 �Paul Hall Center Classes Able Seafarer Deck – Graduated June 10 (photo at left, in alphabetical order): Ryan Chapman, Lynne Hazelip, Christian Ivezic and Sarah Wilson. Their instructor, Dominic Hix, is at the far right. Important Notice To All Students Students who have registered for classes at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, but later discover for whatever reason - that they can’t attend, should inform the admissions department immediately so arrangements can be made to have other students take their places Marine Electrician – Graduated June 17 (above, in alphabetical order): Rahsaan Kwasi Alexander, Angel Ivan Colon Cintron, Francois Emmanuel Doucet III, James Fells, Kabir Garcia Santiago, Jeffrey Hamer, Thedford Jones Jr., and Ethan Love. Class instructor Roy Graham is at the far right. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Fast Rescue Boat – Graduated June 24 (above, in alphabetical order): Kenneth Ledeoux, Christopher Marcani and Scott Salo. Class instructor Thomas Truitt is at the far left. Zachary Parker (second from right) assisted Truitt with this class. September 2022 Water Survival (Upgraders) – A pair of upgraders recently completed their requirements in this course. Graduating June 17 were D’mitri Hill (left) and Darius Harley. Seafarers LOG 21 �Paul Hall Center Classes Government Vessels – Graduated June 17 (above, in alphabetical order): Seth Duke Alejandro Alonzo, Darrol Bates, Khaleel Boatner, Ray Fugit, Malcolm Haynes Jr., Keesha Holloway, Yassid Jean Laboriel Lalin, Kenneth Ledeoux, Cleon McBride, Jody Owens, Levon Prophet, Sabbah Kassim Shaibi, Isaiah Thomas, Tyequan Thompson, Bernard Wade II, Mackenzie Wincelowicz and Richard Wythe Jr. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Small Arms – Graduated June 23 (photo at right, in alphabetical order): William Dowzicky III, Richard Owusu, Harry Phillip, Levon Prophet, Gary Torres and Mackenzie Wincelowicz. Important Notice To All Students Students who have registered for classes at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, but later discover - for whatever reason - that they can’t attend, should inform the admissions department immediately so arrangements can be made to have other students take their places Basic Training – Graduated June 10 (above, in alphabetical order): Thomas Burch, Olivia Gross and Kimberly Vargas. 22 Seafarers LOG MSC Supply Configuration Management – Daniel Edward Fields (above) recently completed his requirements in this course. A member of the deck department, he graduated June 3. September 2022 �Advanced Refer Container Maintenance – Graduated July 29 (above, in alphabetical order): Derek Chestnut, Jerome Culbreth Jr., Kabir Garcia Santiago, Thedford Jones Jr., Justin Nicholson, James Pascocello, Cesar Arnaldo Rivera Polanco and Devin Sem. Class instructor Mike Fay is at the far right while Ben Hernandez, service manager, Maersk Container Industry, is at the far left. UA to FOWT – Graduated July 8 (above, in alphabetical order):Johnathan Bumgarner, Jose Enrique Carrasquillo, Cristian Curet-Lara, Nikita Featherston, Lance Gibson, Wilson Onixon Montero Centeno, Aaron Juan Moore Jr., Ryan Rendell Velez Sotomayor and Michael Zabielski. Advanced Galley Ops – Graduated July 15 (photo at left, in alphabetical order): Sherron Davita Decoteau, Alexander Marcelino Dominguez, Supattara Inthapanti, Nadzeya Mikhailovna Kuptsova, Vanessa Louise Osborne-Brumsey and Luke Vandegrift. Instructor Christina Hurry is second from the right. Important Notice To All Students Students who have registered for classes at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, but later discover for whatever reason - that they can’t attend, should inform the admissions department immediately so arrangements can be made to have other students take their places September 2022 Seafarers LOG 23 �SEPTEMBER 2022 VOLUME 84, NO. 9 O F F I C I A L P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E S E A F A R E R S I N T E R N AT I O N A L U N I O N AT L A N T I C , G U L F, L A K E S A N D I N L A N D W AT E R S , A F L- C I O Paul Hall Center Class Photos Pages 20-23 SUNSHINE STATE Majority Approves Standard Contracts An overwhelming majority of Seafarers have given the “thumbs up” for the new standard freightship and tanker contracts which among other significant features include wage increases. Photos on this page, as well as others on Pages 8-10 show members voting in favor of the new accords while aboard ship and in union hiring halls. In addition to rank-and-file members, some of the photos also include union officials. TS GOLDEN BEAR OVERSEAS NEW YORK WASHINGTON � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 2020-present Description An account of the resource Volumes LXXXII of the Seafarers Log and beyond Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource September 2022 Description An account of the resource NY WATERWAY EXPANDS FLEET, REFITS FERRIES WITH 'GREENER' ENGINES CREW OF MAERSK PEARY RECEIVES COMMENDATION FOR RESCUE AT SEA SIU MEMBERS SAIL ON NEW CONTAINERSHIP UNION JOBS SECURE ABOARD SIX PREPOSITIONING SHIPS COALITION BRINGS BOOKS, BACKPACKS TO PUERTO RICO PACIFIC TRACKER CREW HELPS SAVE A LIFE AT SEA US HOUSE VOTES TO SUPPORT WORKERS DOJ , NLRB FORM ALLIANCE TO PROTECT LABOR MARKETS SHBP CONDUCTING ANNUAL VERIFICATION OF DEPENDENTS 'TIME IS NOW FOR FIXING BROKEN LABOR LAWS' SIX STEWARDS SECURE RECERTIFIED STATUS MEMBERS APPROVE 5-YEAR STANDARD CONTRACTS 'PAINT TACOMA' PROJECT RETURNS WITH FLOURISH NOTICE/REMINDER: USCG POSITIVE DRUG TEST ADVISORY MAJORITY APPROVES STANDARD CONTRACTS Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 09/01/2022 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context VOL. 84, NO. 9 2022 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/3f94e7b01ee10004d00e636c40a821a7.pdf 82b1d543f0a0fdcf49e4fdcc4fbb6eb5 PDF Text Text SEPTEMBER 2023 VOLUME 85, NO. 9 O F F I C I A L P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E S E A F A R E R S I N T E R N AT I O N A L U N I O N AT L A N T I C , G U L F, L A K E S A N D I N L A N D W AT E R S , A F L- C I O SIU Celebrates Reopening of Norfolk Hall Union members, pensioners, officials and guests joined together July 25 to commemorate the formal reopening of the hiring hall at 115 Third Street in Norfolk, Virginia. The ceremony (and luncheon) marked the culmination of a massive renovation that started last year. SIU Asst. VP Pat Vandegrift (above, right) oversaw the project, which met with very favorable reactions from the assembled guests. Pictured above, left, immediately after the ribbon-cutting portion of the ceremony are (from left) ITF Inspector Bobbi Shipley, Seafarers Trustee Tony Naccarato, SIU Port Agent Mario Torrey, Maersk VP Ed Hanley, retired SIU VP Kermett Mangram (who did the honors), Pastor O.L. Cromwell (rear), SIU Secretary-Treasurer Tom Orzechowski, SIU President David Heindel, Seafarers Plans Administrator Maggie Bowen and SIU Executive VP Augie Tellez. Pages 10-11. New Pasha Ship Christened SIU President David Heindel (left) was a featured speaker Aug. 9 as Seafarers-contracted Pasha Hawaii christened its new containership Janet Marie in Oakland, California. Pictured at the event are (from left) Heindel, company President and CEO George Pasha IV, SIU VP West Coast Nick Marrone and Elyse Pasha, wife of George. The ship is sailing in the Jones Act trade. Page 3. Philly Shipyard Event Underscores Administration’s Support of Maritime President Biden on July 20 expressed strong support for the Jones Act and the overall U.S. maritime industry as he delivered keynote remarks at Philly Shipyard. The ceremony marked the start of construction on a first-of-its-kind offshore wind vessel being built for SIU-contracted Great Lakes Dredge and Dock. SIU President David Heindel met with Biden before the ceremony – and the union got a shout-out from the commander in chief during his speech. Pictured at the shipyard are (from left) SIU Philadelphia Port Agent Joe Baselice, U.S. Rep. Mary Scanlon (D-Pennsylvania) and Heindel. Page 2. Food Aid Event Page 4 Stewards Graduate Pages 6-7 �President’s Report New and Improved In the very near future, Seafarers LOG readers will notice some changes to our official publication’s look. We are taking advantage of advancements in the printing industry to help improve our product while not appreciably adding to our costs. Our format won’t be radically different (slightly smaller in size) but I’m confident you’ll agree that the fresh look is an improvement. We’re not cutting back on the amount of content, either. Stay tuned. We regularly examine our methods of communication, and I believe it still makes sense for us to produce a monthly publication. When and if that changes, we won’t hesitate to adjust accordingly. Meanwhile, for those who don’t know, we also have a solid online presence and we’ve offered a text-alert service for the last decade. In addition to our website David Heindel (launched in 1997), we’re active on social media, including multi-platform posts every weekday and usually one day on the weekend. We also post every edition of the LOG online, going all the way back to the newspaper’s launch almost 85 years ago. The printed page remains valuable and viable for the SIU in part because connectivity at sea is, shall we say, still evolving. There is no doubt it is improving, and both the union and our contracted operators are fully committed to maximizing availability. But there are technological limits (just as there are ashore) that result in stretches of no cell service or no Wi-Fi or both. That’s not to say that online reading and skimming the printed page is an either/or proposition, but, let’s face it, when your phone or tablet or laptop won’t connect, it’s good to have another option. We also keep in touch with other unions about the most effective ways to stay in touch with rank-and-file members. What I’ve learned is that the organizations who abandoned their respective publications quickly regretted it. There may be an exception here or there, but the anecdotal evidence is solid. Similarly, the feedback we receive from the membership – across all age groups – strongly supports maintaining a periodical. Lastly and again for those who may not know, while the LOG first and foremost serves as a community newspaper, we also use it to spread the word to the outside world about your outstanding work, and about the union’s positions on maritime issues and workers’ rights. We do not skimp with our online efforts, but you can’t hand somebody a website. And if anyone doubts the effectiveness of direct mail, check your mailbox ahead of next year’s elections. I’m excited about the LOG’s upcoming revamp and I welcome your feedback once you’ve seen the new look. The SIU Turns 85 Next month marks 85 years since the Seafarers International Union received its charter. On a personal note, I am grateful to have been part of the organization for 50 of those years (and counting). We have a proud history and a bright future. Our members are second to none when it comes to professionalism, efficiency and (in my view) community-mindedness. We have a world-class training center to keep up with the times. We have solid working relationships with our operators, and we have political strength that helps ensure support for the U.S. Merchant Marine from our military and at every level of government. I am proud to be your president and I’m excited to continue working on your behalf. With union workers in the background, President Biden gives a pro-worker speech during a ceremony at Philly Shipyard. (Photo from White House Twitter feed) Biden Gives Shout-Out to SIU, Jones Act With SIU President David Heindel seated near the podium, President Biden on July 20 offered supportive remarks about both the union and America’s freight cabotage law during a speech at Philly Shipyard (which employs union workers). Biden was there to help celebrate the ceremonial start of construction of the first offshore wind vessel of its kind (a scour ship, the Acadia) to be Made in America and Jones Act-compliant. The vessel, which will place rocks on the seabed to secure the base for offshore wind turbines, is being constructed for Seafarers-contracted Great Lakes Dredge and Dock. With hundreds of unionized workers in attendance, Biden noted that the SIU will provide shipboard manpower when the vessel is completed. He mentioned that several other unions will be involved in the ship’s construction. He also stated, “Some folks may not know, there was a law in 1920 called the Jones Act that was passed. It says ships travelling between U.S. ports have to be American-built, American-owned and have American crews. There are some who are content to rely on ships built overseas, without American crews to operate them. Again, not on my watch. We’re strengthening American shipbuilding, supporting good union jobs, and bringing offshore-wind supply chains back home.” Heindel met with Biden before the ceremony. “I thanked the president for his support of the Jones Act and the U.S. Merchant Marine. I also thanked him for bringing good union jobs for the wind industry,” Heindel stated. During the ceremony, Biden talked about “the progress we’ve made building an economy from the middle out and the bottom up.” He said unions “built the middle class, and it changed the economic direction of this country.” Turning his attention to recent job growth, Biden cited “over 13 million new jobs built across the country and nearly half a million of them here in Pennsylvania just in the last two-and-a-half years. Eight hundred-thousand manufacturing jobs (created in the U.S.), 28,000 here in Pennsylvania alone in the last two-and-a-half years. That’s more jobs in two years than any president has created in a four-year term. Unemployment is below 4 percent – the longest stretch of unemployment below 4 percent in the last 50 years. We’re beginning to come back, folks. We can because we’re giving workers a chance.” The president also said that his “Investing in America agenda is bringing our clean energy supply chains home. Since I took office, we’ve seen more than $16 billion in new offshore wind investments, including 18 offshore wind vessels, 12 manufacturing facilities, and 13 ports. Today, we announced the first-ever offshore wind sale in the Gulf of Mexico. We’re going to the Gulf…. Across the Delaware River in Paulsboro, New Jersey, workers are welding the steel foundation for another large-scale wind project. That’s going to create more than 3,000 good-paying jobs. A project off the coast of New York will use a vessel built in the shipyards of Louisiana, Mississippi, and Florida and rely on an electrical substation engineered in Kansas and made in Texas.” He added, “All this investment means good-paying jobs here at home. We’re making sure these new jobs come free and fair and (with) the ability to join a union if you’re not already in one. I made a commitment that I’d be the most pro-union president in American history – and I’m keeping that promise.” Expanding on that commitment, Biden said he routinely tells business leaders that “union workers are the best in the world…. You do the job right, and long-term, it costs (management) less than non-union labor.” Celebrating Maritime in Houston O F F I C I A L P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E S E A F A R E R S I N T E R N AT I O N A L U N I O N AT L A N T I C , G U L F, L A K E S A N D I N L A N D W AT E R S , A F L- C I O Volume 85 Number 9 September 2023 The SIU online: www.seafarers.org The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 1086-4636) is published monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters, AFL-CIO; 5201 Capital Gateway Drive; Camp Springs, MD 20746. Telephone (301) 899-0675. Periodicals postage paid at Southern Maryland 20790-9998. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Capital Gateway Drive, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Communications Director, Jordan Biscardo; Assistant Communications Director, Nick Merrill; Assistant Editor, Aja Neal; Administrative Support, Jenny Stokes. Copyright © 2023 Seafarers International Union, AGLIW. All Rights Reserved. The Seafarers International Union engaged an environmentally friendly printer for the production of this newspaper. 2 Seafarers LOG SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey (left in both photos) met with U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg (right in photo above, right) and U.S. Maritime Administrator Ann Phillips (right in remaining photo) Aug. 4 during a ribbon-cutting ceremony in Houston for a federally funded container terminal expansion project. “It was a great opportunity to discuss the Jones Act, cargo preference, the Maritime Security Program, recruiting and training, and port infrastructure grants,” said Corgey, a longtime member of the Port Commission of the Port of Houston Authority. September 2023 �Pasha’s Janet Marie Christened The SIU-crewed Janet Marie, pictured in Long Beach, California, is sailing in the Jones Act trade. (Photo courtesy Port of Long Beach) In commemoration of the Janet Marie’s first call to the Port of Long Beach, Harbor Commission President Sharon L. Weissman (center) presents Pasha Hawaii President and CEO George Pasha IV (center) and Janet Marie Capt. Doug Fisher (standing next to George Pasha) with a plaque in honor of the captain and crew. (Photo courtesy Port of Long Beach) The SIU recently helped formally celebrate the addition of a new Jones Act vessel. Seafarers-contracted Pasha Hawaii on Aug. 9 hosted a christening ceremony in Oakland, California, for its containership MV Janet Marie. SIU President David Heindel was a featured speaker at the gathering; SIU Vice President West Coast Nick Marrone also attended, as did rank-and-file Seafarers. As reported in the August LOG, the LNG-powered vessel was delivered July 11. In addition to the christening, the company also previously conducted smaller commemorations for the Janet Marie’s first calls on the ports of Long Beach, California, and Honolulu, Hawaii, respectively. During the christening, Heindel underscored “the significance of brand-new, state-of-the-art, American-built tonnage entering the U.S. fleet and sailing with American mariners. This is truly something to celebrate.” He saluted the company’s “incredible commitment to our Seafarers, to our flag, and to our national, economic and homeland security. I know that our members are doing great work aboard this fine new ship, and George (Pasha IV, company president and CEO), you can count on us to continue taking good care of your mother’s namesake and to assure the delivery of her cargo.” Heindel also pointed out that “ships like the Janet Marie help our country maintain a pool of well-trained, reliable, U.S.-citizen seafarers who are available to work aboard military support ships as needed.” The Janet Marie is the second of two new ‘Ohana Class, 774foot containerships built at AmFELS in Brownsville, Texas. The company’s first vessel in the class, the SIU-crewed MV George III, began service in August 2022, becoming the first LNG-powered containership to call on the Bay Area. Pasha Hawaii is a subsidiary of the 76-year-old, third-generation, family-owned company The Pasha Group, whose roots were planted in the Bay Area in 1947. The George III and Janet Marie are named in honor of the late parents of George Pasha, IV. “These ships represent the legacy of my parents and the company they helped build from humble beginnings in San Francisco,” said George Pasha IV. “The success of our family business has always been based on ingenuity, striving for excellence and doing what is right for our customers and the communities where we live and work. Both George III and Janet Marie provide our customers with best-in-class vessels, while setting the standard for environmental stewardship when it comes to ship design and construction. Today is a very proud moment for the entire Pasha team and our family.” Chris Connor, president and CEO of the American Association of Port Authorities and board member of The Pasha Group served as emcee for the christening ceremony. Connor was joined by guest speakers Danny Wan, executive director of the Port of Oakland; Oakland Deputy Mayor Kimberly Mayfield; Heindel; and Pasha IV. Pastor Michael Ryan and Sister Judy Ryan, of St. James Cathedral in Seattle and siblings to the late Janet Marie Ryan Pasha, conducted a Catholic blessing, followed by a traditional Hawaiian blessing by Kahu (Pastor) Kordell Kekoa of Honolulu. George Pasha IV’s sister, Mary Jane Pasha, served as the ship’s sponsor, overseeing the breaking of the champagne bottle. Crowley Tug Artemis Signals New Jobs for Seafarers The new tug will mean additional jobs for SIU boatmen on the West Coast. Seafarers-contracted Crowley recently announced that it has entered into the company’s fourth long-term charter for its newest Tier IV ship assist tug, the Artemis, with SIU-contracted Brusco Tug & Barge. “The powerful, state-of-the-art vessel reinforces the company’s commitment to sustainability while providing high performance,” Crowley said in a news release. According to Crowley, the 77-foot tug “will deliver 7,000 horsepower with a bollard pull of 96 tons using two Caterpillar Marine 3516 Tier IV-compliant engines, meeting U.S. Environmental Protection Agency emission standards. Artemis will also feature advanced technology to enhance maneuverability and provide operators with remote monitoring of its performance, making it highly efficient and versatile for various operations.” “Artemis will not only offer the most power for its size like its sister vessel Athena; it showcases our dedication to September 2023 providing environmentally efficient services while maintaining the highest standards of performance and reliability,” said Paul Manzi, vice president, Crowley Shipping. “We are grateful to continue collaborating with Brusco Tug & Barge and Diversified Marine to bring new vessels that advance the industry’s capabilities.” The Artemis is slated to enter service later this year, serving Los Angeles and Long Beach with ship assists and escorts. “We are proud of our Hercules Class tugs and pleased to continue our partnership with Crowley and Brusco Tug & Barge,” said Frank Manning, president, Diversified Marine. “This will be the sixth DMI-built tug in Crowley’s fleet and the eleventh we have built for Brusco. Our company is based on relationships, and we are very thankful for the relationship we have with these forward-thinking operators.” Above: SIU President David Heindel expresses confidence in the union members sailing aboard the new ship. Below: Celebrating the ship’s first arrival in Honolulu Harbor are Pasha family members, Seafarers and SIU officials. Pictured from left are Savannah Pasha, George Pasha IV, Elyse Pasha, AB Eric Bell, AB Harold Harper, Pasha VP Ed Washburn, SIU Port Agent Hazel Galbiso, SIU VP Nick Marrone and SIU Safety Director Amber Akana. Seafarers LOG 3 �Port Event Highlights Threat To Food for Peace Program SIU members and officials are pictured after the ceremony. SIU VP West Coast Nick Marrone is sixth from left, while SIU Asst. VP Joe Vincenzo is at far right. SIU VP West Coast Nick Marrone (right) and Bosun Shatina Wright confer aboard the vessel. ica’s home-grown food to hungry families half a world away for 70 years and counting.” In remarks prepared for the ceremony, Marrone stated, “The Seafarers International Union proudly supports cargo preference and we strongly believe that the laws should be strengthened for the betterment of America’s national, economic and homeland security.” According to the latest data from the World Bank, across the Middle East and North Africa, one in five people are severely food insecure, including eight million children. Through Food for Peace, American farmers, millers, port workers, longshoremen and mariners sailing under the U.S. flag have played a critical role in the program to fight global food insecurity. In conjunction with the Longview event, Congressional representatives and other stakeholders offered their support for Food for Peace’s mission: Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-Washington) - “Eastern Washington’s agricultural community has a rich history of feeding the world, especially those in need. Thanks to the Columbia-Snake River system, our wheat farmers are able to send their products to hungry nations around the world, preserving their hard-earned legacy and ensuring America continues to shine as a beacon of hope. Thank you to our farmers, industry stakeholders, and maritime partners who helped make this tremendous humanitarian effort possible.” Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal (D-Washington) - “The United States must continue to provide robust international aid to meet the scale of need in the fight against hunger. I am inspired by the partnership of the maritime labor, carriers, and agriculture sectors in Washington and across the country to make this momentous contribution to global food security.” Congressman Adam Smith (D-Washington) - “I commend partners throughout Washington State for their continued commitment to USAID’s Food for Peace Program. Food for Peace plays an integral role in alleviating hunger throughout the world while also strengthening the United States’ diplomatic efforts. Thank you to the many partners, including Washington State agricultural producers and union workers, who make these efforts possible.” Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland (D-Washington) “Washington State has long been a leader in agricultural production and has put us in a position to create positive change. With eight billion dollars in agricultural exports last year and partnerships between public, private, trade groups, and labor, our state is well positioned to extend beyond our geographic boundaries and touch the lives of individuals and families facing hunger emergencies.” Jane Shey, Senior Policy Consultant, World Food Program USA – “Food security is national security. We must increase our collective efforts to access the funding and commodities needed to meet the challenge of a food-insecure world. Committed leadership on the part of the United States, from Capitol Hill to the docks where we stand today, is essential to securing a peaceful and prosperous future.” Dan McKisson, President, Washington Area District Council of the International Longshore and Warehouse Union – “American-grown commodities, like the soft, white wheat loaded on the U.S.-flagged vessel Liberty Glory here today, have saved lives all over the world. This is a tangible symbol of our nation’s generosity, loading these cargos and sending them to those in need overseas, also provides much-needed living wage jobs for our union members and for their families.” Randy Suess, on behalf of the Washington Grain Commission and Washington Association of Wheat Growers – “Food aid not only benefits everyone around the world and American farmers, but it also involves everybody in the supply chain: the truckers, the warehousemen, the shippers and the longshoremen.... Right now, one U.S. farmer feeds 166 others across the country and around the world. I am proud to be part of this program, working to achieve long-lasting and sustainable food security for the world.” The SIU crew of the Liberty Glory included Bosun Shatina Wright, ABs Qaid Alnaawi, Guillermo Legra and Samuel Vera Davis, STOSs Jose Oliva Umanzor and Venancio Bonifacio Suazo, OS Sincere Williams, GUDEs Lacorie Ray, Nabil Said and Virgil Tudorache, Steward/Baker Isabel Sabio, Chief Cook Eliezer Estremera and SA Yawoub Shack. The Seafarers-crewed vessel prepares for its voyage to the Middle East. (All photos courtesy American Maritime Congress) Washington State Department of Agriculture Director Derek Sandison addresses the attendees. At the Washington Port of Longview, American farmers, port workers, millers, mariners, and state and federal policymakers stood together Aug. 15 to commemorate the significant humanitarian shipment of 28,000 metric tons of American-grown wheat on the SIU-crewed Liberty Glory (Liberty Maritime) as part of the U.S. Agency for International Development’s (USAID) Food for Peace program. The shipment comes as Food for Peace is under intense pressure from lawmakers working to eliminate shipments of food produced by American farmers aimed at alleviating the worst hunger emergencies around the world. SIU Vice President West Coast Nick Marrone and SIU Assistant Vice President Joe Vincenzo attended the event, as did rank-and-file Seafarers. American-grown food has been the cornerstone of America’s foreign aid policy since Food for Peace was launched in the 1950s with crops like corn, sorghum, rice and wheat. The shipments represent an “unbroken chain of humanity” that stretches from America’s fertile fields to families facing an unprecedented crisis. During the last three years, the United States has donated more than one million tons of American-grown wheat per year through Food for Peace. Much of that wheat has gone to support hunger hotspots in the Middle East and East Africa, where food insecurity still persists. “Food for Peace is one of the most successful humanitarian programs because of the enduring commitment of America’s farmers, millers, port workers, longshoremen and merchant mariners to feeding the world,” said William P. Campbell, vice president of operations, Liberty Maritime Corporation. “However, there are some out there who want to eliminate the contribution of America’s farmers and mariners to Food for Peace or end the program entirely. World hunger is at its peak as conflict persists and the traditional breadbasket of Ukraine is disrupted. Against this backdrop, America must stand up and fight hunger and once again be the shining beacon of hope for those around the world. Food for peace is that hope.” “America’s farmers feed the world and this shipment will feed one million people facing starvation for an entire year; focusing on families who need it most,” said Washington Grain Commissioner Gary Bailey, a wheat grower in Whitman County. “Washington’s wheat farmers are proud to have connected Amer- 4 Seafarers LOG September 2023 �Merchant Marine Delivers Relief Cargoes in Hawaii At press time for this edition of the LOG (mid-August), Seafarers and SIUcontracted vessel operators were involved in the relief efforts in Hawaii, following the wildfires that devasted parts of the state. Additionally, the union is accepting voluntary donations via the Seafarers Disaster Aid Fund. More information about the fund is available on the SIU website (prominently linked on the home page). No SIU members are known to have been injured or to have lost their homes as a result of the fires. Seafarers-contracted Pasha Hawaii reported that its supply chain routes were fully operational as support efforts for Maui wildfire relief continue. The company has enacted its emergency response plan “which includes prioritizing emergency rations, foodstuffs and medical supplies via available barge capacity to Maui and its direct vessel roll-on/roll-off service,” Pasha said in a news release. Additionally, Seafarers-contracted Matson reported that it had begun transporting emergency response equipment and supplies to Maui for the Federal Emergency Management Administration (FEMA) and the Hawaii Food Industry Association (HFIA). Also in mid-August, the American Maritime Partnership, to which the SIU is affiliated, issued a “situation report” noting that state, local and federal authorities in Hawaii continue to respond to the needs of residents and the devastating impacts of several large wildfires, which had taken more the 100 lives and destroyed more than 2,200 homes and businesses. In what has been described as the deadliest wildfire incident in the U.S. in more than 100 years, the fires were exacerbated by extremely dry conditions and strong winds generated by the passage of Hurricane Dora. According to AMP, as of Aug. 14, all 10 ports within Hawaii’s Commercial Harbor System, including Kahului Harbor Piers 1, 2 and 3 on the island of Maui, remained operational. The coalition also noted the following, in addition to reporting about the respective efforts of Pasha and Matson: - Fuel availability, the movement of cargo and the flow of humanitarian assistance have not been restricted by the impacts of the wildfires. - Cargoes from the mainland U.S. to Maui are generally routed through Honolulu and transshipped to Kahului, Maui (the main harbor), but there is there is also direct U.S. barge service and roll-on/rolloff vessel service from the mainland to Kahului. - The American maritime industry is coordinating with county, state, federal, and emergency departments to prioritize and move cargo, and ensure safe and expedient delivery of disaster aid. - U.S.-flagged barges are arriving at Kahului Harbor in Maui to provide relief goods. - A barge with 20 Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) containers arrived on Thursday, August 10, carrying pallets of bottled water and ready-to-eat meals. - Another barge arrived on Saturday, August 12, carrying 191 containers with generators, emergency supplies, and other equipment to assist the community response efforts. - The Hawaii Department of Transpor- Meeting with Labor Secretary SIU President David Heindel (right) and MM&P President Don Marcus (left) are pictured with Acting Secretary of Labor Julie Su at AFL-CIO headquarters earlier this year. They discussed her solid support for workers’ rights, including the right to choose union representation. tation (HDOT) has waived all wharfage charges for cargoes inbound to Kahului Harbor through September 10, 2023 to support humanitarian relief in Maui. - HDOT will waive demurrage and storage fees and port entry and dockage for vessels displaced from small boat harbors on Maui, and have determined that the declared state of emergency is good cause for extensions of free time. - The National Guard has activated 134 troops, including 99 Army National Guard personnel and 35 Air National Guard personnel, to assist in the ongoing local and federal wildfire response efforts. - FEMA announced it had deployed more than 150 personnel, including search and rescue teams. LCLAA Elects SIU AVP Crespo As Puerto Rico Chapter President SIU Assistant Vice President Amancio Crespo recently earned an additional title. In August, Crespo was elected president of the Puerto Rico Chapter of the Labor Council for Latin American Advancement (LCLAA) during the organization’s twentyfourth convention in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Also elected as LCLAA officials were Vice President John Navas (Asociación de Maestros de Puerto Rico, or AMPR), SecretaryTreasurer Jose Ramirez (American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees or AFSCME), Log Secretary Nadrischka Martinez (Secretary, AMPR), Board member Nelly Ayala (President, AMPR), Board Member Maria Ortiz (Teacher and Tech Support, AMPR), and Board Member Hector Reyes (International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, or IBEW). All members of the LCLAAPR Chapter are also members of the executive Board of the Puerto Rico Workers Federation (Federación de Trabajadores de Puerto Rico, or FTPR AFL-CIO). During the convention, the new chapter electees adopted policy priorities and resolutions meant to ensure dignity for working families. They resolved to prioritize workplace initiatives for long-term economic stability, foster strength and success for LGBTQ workers and help build a bright future for the middle class. The resolutions also emphasize building power with immigrant workers, empowering women in the trades, ensuring quality beginnings to education, and advocating for workers’ rights in a global economy. The LCLAA plans to work toward instating workplace initiatives for longterm economic stability, advocating for affordable and accessible health care for all, and fighting for equal rights on the job and humanitarian protections for those in harm’s way, the organization reported. The convention’s theme, “Together Towards Tomorrow: Trabajadores para un Futuro Justo,” focused on improving the quality of life of all Latin Americans in the U.S. and enriching the benefits necessary to achieve happiness, good living, and the peace to which all Americans are entitled according to our Constitution and Civil Rights. It commenced with a chapter president’s meeting, during which Crespo and the other new chapter mem- September 2023 LCLAA friends and guests pose for a picture during the convention. bers from Milwaukee, Greater Boston, Puerto Rico, and South Central Arizona were welcomed. Stephanie Sepulveda offered insights on citizenship clinics, while Lucia Gomez led a workshop on voter education and partnering with other organizations for effective voting efforts. With inspiring speeches and discussions by esteemed speakers including AFLCIO Secretary-Treasurer Fred Redmond and American Federation of Teachers President Randi Weingarten, the session set the stage for a dynamic and transformative convention experience, according to attendees. During the plenary session, Redmond and Weingarten effusively exalted the Jones Act in their respective speeches. They referenced Crespo’s effective work promoting the law, and they emphasized how necessary and vital that statute is for Puerto Rico’s economy. Speakers also mentioned what this means for U.S. national security, especially in cases of national emergency like the major, devastating hurricanes and earthquakes that have hit Puerto Rico in the past five years. Both Redmond and Weingarten were received and dismissed with standing ovations. SIU Asst. VP Amancio Crespo (left in both photos) meets with (above, left) AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurer Fred Redmond and with American Federation of Teachers President Randi Weingarten (remaining photo). Seafarers LOG 5 �Eight SIU Stewards Reach Top Level Newly Recertified Seafarers Praise School, Union The latest class of recertified stewards, from left to right: Ingra Maddox, Natalie Delgado, Annie T. Nodd, Erwin Renon, Jermaine Robinson, J.D. Reyes, Bernard Butts and Dennison Dizon. T he newest class of recertified stewards graduated in August, and the group had plenty of good things to say about the experience. SIU members completing the top-level course at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education (PHC) were: Bernard Butts, Natalie Delgado, Dennison Dizon, Ingra Maddox, Annie T. Nodd, Erwin Renon, J.D. Reyes and Jermaine Robinson. They formally completed the class during the August membership meeting in Piney Point, Maryland. During their training, the stewards were instructed and tested on a variety of subjects, including leadership, baking ability, computer skills, social responsibilities, Coast Guard updates, and other department-specific workshops on healthy eating, safe work areas and more. During the two-week course, each member also gained new and additional insight into the functions of the various departments of the SIU as well as the Seafarers Plans, collective bargaining agreements, and the union’s affiliations with both the Maritime Trades Department and its parent organization, the AFL-CIO. As part of the graduation ceremony, each steward spoke to the assembled crowd of SIU officials, members and guests before receiving their certificates of completion. In each speech, the new recertified stewards described their experiences with the course, their careers as mariners and their time spent at the PHC. Without exception, each member of the class praised the curriculum, the staff and faculty of the school and the importance of upgrading and furthering their careers. Following are highlights of the respective graduation speeches. Bernard Butts Unable to attend the graduation ceremony in person, Butts nevertheless thanked the union’s executive board, staff and faculty for their assistance and instruction throughout the course. The Norfolk, Virginia-based mariner wrote, “I would like to thank the president, vice presidents, officials, patrolmen, chefs, instructors, my fellow recertified stewards and all the stewards that came before me that imparted wisdom, knowledge and guidance to help me reach this point in my career.” He continued, “It is an honor to stand before you as a new recertified steward. 6 Seafarers LOG I began my career as a mariner in 2001, after 12 years in the Navy. I embarked on my first ship, the USNS Bold, beginning what has become a prosperous and fulfilling career path in the SIU. “Since I joined the union, my life has excelled in many different ways. I have been able to provide the life for my family that I had always dreamed of. I have been able to see many different parts of the world that some only dream or imagine. I have been able to teach and mentor many along the way, sharing work knowledge, life lessons and insight into this great entity we call the SIU.” He concluded by offering advice to the apprentices and upgraders: “Continue to strive to become greater. Never limit yourself. Always press to take your career to the next level. Keep your head down, mouth closed and ears open. There is an opportunity in the SIU that you can’t find in a lot of places, called upgrading! Take full advantage of this opportunity, and don’t get stagnant or complacent in your current position.” Ingra Maddox Shipping from the Port of Tacoma, Washington, Maddox spoke about her career, as well as her family connection to the SIU. After thanking the officials seated on the dais, she reflected on her experiences in the program. “First, I’d like to say how honored I am to be here with my fellow recertified stewards, and humbly thank all of our great instructors, including Natalie (Delgado, who previously taught at the PHC during her shore time), for all they’ve done over the years to help me get to where I am today. I never could have imagined I’d be here. “My family has been a part of the SIU for 45 years,” Maddox continued. “I’ve been sailing for 20. Being a mariner has enriched my life in so many ways, but most importantly, by giving me the financial freedom to help in providing for my family. The long vacations don’t hurt, either.” To the apprentices, she said, “Please don’t waste the opportunity you’ve been given. Apply yourself, learn all you can and take full advantage of all our school has to offer. The school is here to help us all. When you get out on the ships, listen, learn and ask questions. The only stupid questions are ones not asked. Remember that we all had to start at the bottom. Never let anyone tell you that you are not good enough, or that you can’t do it. Prove them wrong, like I did.” She concluded, “I thank the SIU, and will always stand behind my union, as it has done for me.” Jermaine Robinson Next to speak was Robinson, who sails out of the Port of New Orleans. He detailed his career, starting with his first job in the industry. “I’ve been sailing with the SIU now for 26 years and five months. I took my first job on February 27, 1997, with the Delta Queen Steamboat Company. From there, my journey continued as I moved on to bigger deep sea vessels, where in 2004 I got a job aboard the USNS Altair.… Aboard that ship I was able to go completely around the world, where I got my chance to cross the Equator.” He thanked the union officials and the staff at the PHC, as well as talked about his family: “The SIU has been financially good to my family and me over the years. My wife and I have four kids and two grandkids, and my baby boy is about to graduate high school.” He then thanked the union for helping enable him to send all of his children to college. He also mentioned some of the skills he learned during the course, before turning to address the apprentices in the auditorium, saying, “Come aboard, work hard, listen to your supervisors, work alongside your fellow shipmates, learn as much as you can, don’t be afraid to ask questions and always remember to never stop there. Always come back and upgrade, upgrade, upgrade.” J.D. Reyes Sailing out of Tacoma, Reyes is another legacy mariner in this class, who followed his mother’s path to a career at sea: “I became a mariner in the year 2000, in New York, because my family’s history in the U.S. also began in New York. My mother was a sailor for more than 25 years, with the National Maritime Union,” he recalled. Reyes continued, “The most important part of being a mariner is to love what you are doing. If I wasn’t proud to be here, I wouldn’t still be sailing.” He then spoke about the importance of supporting the Seafarers Political Activities Donation (SPAD), the union’s voluntary political action fund. Finally, he offered the following advice to future mariners: “At sea, there is no such thing as half-[hearted]. That comes back to bite you, and gets you hurt. We want to send you back to your loved ones in one piece.” Dennison Dizon Dizon, hailing from the Port of Wilmington, California, was next to address the crowd, saying, “I am honored to be at this level in my career. It’s a dream come true to be a recertified steward. I became a merchant mariner because of my father, Bosun Dante Dizon. I joined the SIU and started sailing in 2009, and now I’m the permanent steward of the USNS Red Cloud. “The SIU provides a quality lifestyle, and I am evidence of that,” he continued, Continues on next page Recertified Steward Annie T. Nodd September 2023 �Recertified Stewards Dennison Dizon (left) and Jermaine Robinson “The SIU has helped me a lot, especially when it comes to supporting my family. It gives us a high standard of living, and financial security through our future.” He then offered advice to the trainees, saying, “Take advantage of the opportunity that you have right now, study hard while you’re here and learn as much as you can. Remember, ‘Talent wins games, but teamwork and hard work wins championships.’ Upgrading is a must, never settle for less than what you deserve, and you can’t be afraid to fail, because that’s the only way to succeed.” He also credited the union officials and staff of the PHC, before thanking his wife, who was in attendance: “She is the reason why I am here. She motivated me every single day. She’s my inspiration. I love you, and this is for you!” Annie T. Nodd After thanking the officials, Nodd talked about her history with the SIU. She hails from Mobile, Alabama. “I started as a trainee in the apprentice program – Class 563 – and that gave me the right amount of discipline that I needed, and the skills that I still use today,” she said. “I’m so grateful to God for guiding me in this direction. Without God’s guidance, I don’t know where I would be. “The SIU has given me a sense of stability and security,” she continued. “It has allowed me to travel the world and to continue to work and support my family, even when everything had shut down (during the COVID-19 pandemic). I am so grateful for that.” She also mentioned the importance of assisting young mariners, saying, “I had some great mentors, some old-timers who took me under their wing and taught me all they knew. To the trainees, I was once sitting where you all are now. The training and knowledge you all will learn here will take you throughout your career, if you apply it. Listen to your instructors and work hard. This school is not set up to fail you. If you fail, that’s on you.” She concluded by thanking the staff and instructors, saying, “Everyone here has always made me feel at home and safe. I grew up under you all, and I thank September 2023 you all for hosting this year’s steward recertification class.” Erwin Renon Renon began with the most important recognition, saying, “It is my distinct honor to be here, but, first and foremost I would like to thank my wife, who has stood with me all these years. I thank her, God, and my four beautiful daughters for helping me to be here today.” He quipped, “I have been a mariner for 23 years, longer than most of you have been alive.” He then spoke about his history with the union, saying, “I fell in love with my new career, and met so many wonderful people along the way. The union has become an important part of my family’s life. Without the support of the union, I would not have been able to provide for my family as well as I can, and I am forever grateful to the SIU for that.” He took a moment to thank the staff of his home port, Tacoma, before speaking Recertified Steward J.D. Reyes to the trainees: “All of us can agree that the road ahead is not going to be easy, but do try to do your best and take every opportunity that you are given. Your time here will teach you many skills, and connect you to many people. Payday is coming for you.” He concluded by urging his fellow mariners to contribute to SPAD, and by thanking the staff and instructors at the PHC. Natalie Delgado Last to speak, Delgado ships out of Wilmington, and has a long history with the union. Beyond her sailing career of more than 20 years, she also worked parttime at the PHC as an instructor for many years. “Prior to joining the union, I found myself struggling to stay above water financially,” she began. “I was working two full-time jobs…. Shortly after AHC went out of business, I got a call from a Navy captain, saying I came highly recom- mended. For the last 17 years, I’ve been loyal to the USNS Loyal as the permanent chief steward.” She added, “I consider myself truly blessed to have had the privilege of working with the chefs here at Piney Point: John Hetmanski, John Dobson, Paulie Gelrud, R.J. Johnson, and my mentor who took me under his wing, Ed White, God bless his soul. Gentlemen, from the bottom of my heart, I thank you.” Delgado stated, “Thank you to my husband, Edwin, for holding down the hatches while I was at sea.” She then urged those in attendance to support SPAD, as well as backing politicians who support the Jones Act, and getting out to the polls to vote. She concluded, “To the trainees, don’t be the one who years from now says, ‘shoulda, woulda, coulda’ or wonder where you would be in life if you had just committed to this industry. Joining the SIU and becoming a mariner changed my life.” Pictured above, from left to right: Jermaine Robinson, VP Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi, Dennison Dizon, J.D. Reyes, Erwin Renon, VP Contracts George Tricker, Natalie Delgado, Executive VP Augustin Tellez, VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey, Annie T. Nodd, Ingra Maddox, VP Great Lakes Bryan Powell, President David Heindel, Secretary-Treasurer Tom Orzechowski, AVP Pat Vandegrift, Port Agent Jose Argueta and VP Nicholas Celona. Seafarers LOG 7 �ABOARD USNS ALGOL – Pictured aboard the Ocean Duchess-operated vessel following a safety meeting are Capt. Raymond Davis, Recertified Bosun Ritche Acuman, GUDE Rodolfo Ludovice, Electrician Salah Saleh and GUDE Ruel Decrepito. ABOARD ATB MILLVILLE – Pictured aboard the Keystone vessel following a union meeting are Recertified Bosun Billy Yurick, AB/Tankerman Jimmy Hargrove, Capt. Michael O’Connell, SIU Houston Patrolman J.B. Niday, SIU Houston Patrolman Kirk Pegan and Second Mate Connor Shea. SHIPYARD SNAPSHOT – Many thanks to Recertified Bosun Adel Ahmed for this photo from the Alaskan Navigator’s recent shipyard period in South Korea. Pictured from left (standing) near the Alaska Tanker Co. vessel are QMED Ronilo Monares, AB Romeo Escalera, DEU Taher Ahmed, Bosun Ahmed, Recertified Steward Albert Sison, QMED Aljohn Fernandez, Chief Cook Nasr Almusab, AB Micheal Adote, AB Francisco Anacta, AB Zaid Said, SA Ammr Ali, AB Walid Nasser and AB Bonifacio Fortes. In front is DEU Paul Koomson. ENCOURAGING PROSPECTIVE APPRENTICES – SIU Asst. VP Amancio Crespo (second from left) assists candidates at the San Juan hall who are applying for the apprentice program based at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, located in Piney Point, Maryland. Behind the lens is Seafarer Jose Encarnacion. At Sea and Ashore with the SIU PROMOTING MARITIME CAREERS – SIU personnel (from left) Port Agent Hazel Galbiso, VP West Coast Nick Marrone and Junior Engineer Luke Failauga spread the word at a job and wellness fair in Honolulu. TALKIN’ RECRUITING IN CRESCENT CITY – SIU New Orleans Port Agent Chris Westbrook (left) meets with Louisiana Workforce Commission Apprenticeship Division Director Stephen Peychaud at the hiring hall, where they discussed ongoing recruiting collaboration. A-BOOKS IN JERSEY CITY – Picking up their respective A-seniority books at the hiring hall are QEE Jing Hui Huang (left in photo above, right) and Chief Cook Leonardo Bagnol (left in remaining photo). They’re pictured with SIU Port Agent Ray Henderson. BOOKS GALORE IN JACKSONVILLE – These photos were taken during the August membership meeting at the hall. From left in photo above, both receiving B-books, are STOS Antione Clark and SA Shantracycia Stripling (and SIU Port Agent Ashley Nelson). From left in the photo at left: Chief Cook Brittany Williams (B seniority), Steward/Baker Jeffery Toliver (A seniority) and Chief Cook Armon Bailey (A seniority). 8 Seafarers LOG September 2023 �SUPPORTING OUR TROOPS – SIU VP Government Services Nicholas Celona recently attended a change-of-command ceremony on the West Coast. He’s at right, with Brigadier General Douglas K. Clark, Commanding General, 4th Marine Division. WELCOME ASHORE IN JACKSONVILLE – SA Budiman Chandra (left) receives his first pension check following a 20-year career with the SIU. He’s pictured at the hiring hall with SIU Port Agent Ashley Nelson. ABOARD G&H TOWING TUG – SIU Patrolman Kirk Pegan (left) greets Seafarer Clay Casteel aboard the Atlas. FULL BOOK IN HOUSTON – AB Jose Ortiz (left) picks up his B-book at the hiring hall. He’s pictured with SIU Patrolman Kelly Krick. ABOARD PACIFIC TRACKER – During a recent voyage on the TOTE-operated vessel, Seafarers (from left) MDR Brandon Maeda, Chief Steward Julito Crodua and Chief Cook Michael Gramer noted that they all started sailing in the 1980s, with American Hawaii Cruises. “It was really great seeing each other again and sailing on the same ship,” Maeda wrote. At Sea and Ashore with the SIU ABOARD NATIONAL GLORY – These photos from the Intrepid Personnel and Provisioning ship, taken while the vessel was headed to Puerto Rico, include Chief Cook Esperanza Crespo (left in both snapshots), Chief Steward Melissa McCartney (right in photo at right) and Electrician Joe Flotta (right in remaining photo). BOSUN CREDITS ABs – Many thanks to Recertified Bosun Lee Hardman for this snapshot of SJ Joe Horton, AB Paul Jimenez and AB Levi Gorokhovsky aboard the Global Sentinel (SubCom). Photo was taken during a recent trip from the West Coast to the UK. Hardman said it “was a long trip but time to catch up on some maintenance. They knocked it out of the park chipping the lifeboat davits.” All are graduates of the apprentice program who recently secured their respective AB tickets. September 2023 BACKING PRO-WORKER CANDIDATE – SIU Houston Safety Director Kevin Sykes (left) greets John Whitmire, the labor-backed candidate for Houston mayor, during a gathering in support of the campaign. MILESTONE IN ALOHA STATE – QE4 Sean Carter (left) receives his A-book. He’s pictured at the Honolulu hall with SIU Administrative Assistant Caitlyn Wharton. WORTH CELEBRATING – SIU Port Agent Todd Brdak (left) attended a workers’ rights event earlier this year in Lansing, Michigan, featuring Gov. Gretchen Whitmer (right). The gathering celebrated Whitmer’s signing of legislation repealing the state’s so-called right-to-work (for less) law. Seafarers LOG 9 �From left to right: Maersk Line, Limited Vice President Ed Hanley, SIU VP Contracts George Tricker and SIU EVP Augustin Tellez show off a new addition to the (model) fleet. From left to right: SIU VP Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi, Asst. Vice President Pat Vandegrift and Secretary-Treasurer Tom Orezchowski stand ready to assist the members. Welcome to Your New Home, Norfolk The location and exterior bricks are quite familiar, but the rest of the hiring hall in Norfolk, Virginia, is essentially brand new, following a successful, months-long renovation. SIU members, retirees, family members and guests joined union officials July 25 for a ceremonial reopening of the facility, located at 115 Third Street. The union has operated from that spot since 1963, though it maintained temporary offices in nearby Chesapeake, Virginia, since late summer 2022, due to the refurbishment. As with any renovation of such extensive scope, this one included some figurative speed bumps, but the finished product elicited nothing but praise. Bosun Darrol Bates stated, “No joke, this looks really nice. It’s gorgeous, and I really like the desk area.” “It’s up to the times for the new generation coming in,” said Chief Steward Reynard Gibbs. “I think it’ll definitely bring a positive energy. The map of southeast Hampton Roads (behind the counter) is cool and the Wi-Fi works. I just logged in.” GUDE Blake Thrasher said, “Everything looks a whole lot better. It’s clean and more modern. The front desk is more organized and the hall has better spacing.” Retired Recertified Bosun Aubrey Davis noted, “The improvements make you feel good. I think it’s absolutely wonderful and beautiful.” The ceremony, which was followed by a catered luncheon, included remarks from (in chronological order) SIU Secretary-Treasurer Tom Orzechowski, SIU Norfolk Port Agent Mario Torrey, SIU Assistant Vice President Pat Vandegrift (who oversaw the renovation), Seafarers Trustee Tony Naccarato, Virginia Delegate Jeion Ward, and SIU President David Heindel. Attendees then gathered outside the building, where retired SIU Vice President Kermett Mangram, long a mainstay in Norfolk, SIU President David Heindel (right) poses for a photo with Virginia AFL-CIO President Doris Crouse-Mays. 10 Seafarers LOG cut the ceremonial ribbon following a blessing from local Pastor O.L. Cromwell. Moments before the program started, Seafarerscontracted Maersk Line, Limited (which is headquartered in Norfolk) presented a new, glass-encased model of the Maersk Peary, unveiled by company Vice President Ed Hanley. Heindel commended Vandegrift’s work in overseeing the renovation, which included completely replacing most or all of the plumbing and drainage systems, electrical components, flooring and ceilings, windows, offices, counter and more. “The building started to show its age,” Heindel said. “We invested in our membership to make sure you had a comfortable place. It was time. “Pat did an excellent job,” he continued. “He dedicated more than a year to get this project to conclusions. It wasn’t easy, but Pat has the tenacity to keep things on track and he did a hell of a job.” Heindel said the refurbished hall “symbolizes improvements in the present and the hope for the future. This location is excellent, and now this facility itself is state of the art and will serve our membership well into the future. It’s a place where our members and their families can feel safe and proud to come and take care of their business.” He concluded by telling the crowd that plans are being made to improve a few more of the hiring halls in the near future. Naccarato, who has worked in the maritime industry for 58 years, said the hall is “a beautiful building – a building that will not only serve to provide good jobs to members, but a building that will be a testament to the excellent and valuable labor-management relationships that owners and operators enjoy with the SIU. Buildings of this quality do not happen without vision and determination.” He also thanked the rank-and-file members “for your service and for your willingness to sacrifice time away from family and friends. You serve a very vital role. Being a seafarer is not an easy life. Please rest assured that you are truly appreciated not only for providing a decent living standard for yourself and for your families, but also for your valuable contribution to our shipping companies and to the defense and security of our country. Your participation and support absolutely are indispensable, now more than ever in a very dangerous and uncertain world.” In addition to her position as a state delegate, Ward is president of an American Federation of Teachers local and serves on the Virginia AFL-CIO Executive Council, where she spearheads the labor movement’s support in the general assembly. She complimented the new-look hall and also said, “If you tell me labor wants it, I’m going to fight for it…. When labor speaks, I listen.” Orzechowski opened the festivities and stated, “We couldn’t be more pleased with the product and we really believe that this building is going to serve the SIU membership well in the next several decades.” He also thanked Vandegrift, as did Torrey. The port agent added, “I can truly say it’s good to be back home. We’ve got the best of all worlds. We have the same great location, a beautiful building, and decades of history. No one knows more about these upgrades than Pat Vandegrift, who’s been in charge of this operation since day one. He’s worked tirelessly.” Vandegrift mentioned that he already was familiar with the area, partly because of family, partly because of his time in the Navy. The hall “stood the test of time, but it needed an upgrade,” he said. “It needed a yard period. We got a great product in the end, and I’m honored to serve all of you.” One of the guests, American Maritime Officers Secretary-Treasurer Bob Rice – who sailed with the SIU for a dozen years – hit the deck and recalled getting his start at the Norfolk hall. “Spring of 1990, I walked through that very door right there,” he said. Rice added that when he subsequently went to the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland, “I learned some of the best life lessons that I’ve ever learned. Hard work wins. You get out of life what you put into it. No matter how good you are, or how hard you work, bad things are going to happen to you. How you address those things largely will determine your character…. I just wanted to say how grateful I am to the SIU. It’s made me the man I am today.” A round of applause for the successful completion of the renovation project. September 2023 �Members, retirees and guests pose for a photo before the festivities. Bosun Mark Brownell (left) and AB Bartow Bridges enjoy the new hall. Virginia Delegate Jeion Ward speaks to a crowd which included many of her constituents. September 2023 Port Agent Mario Torrey Attendees partake of the provided luncheon after the ribbon-cutting ceremony. Seafarers Trustee Tony Naccarato American Maritime Officers Secretary-Treasurer Bob Rice talks about his Norfolk Hall memories. Seafarers LOG 11 �Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea “Total Registered” and “Total Shipped” data is cumulative from July 16 - August 15, 2023. “Registered on the Beach” data is as of August 16, 2023. Total Shipped Total Registered Port All Groups All Groups A B C A B C Trip Reliefs Registered on Beach All Groups A B C Seafarers Plans Administrator Maggie Bowen (above) conducts a benefits conference in Norfolk, Virginia. Benefits Conferences Continue Representatives from the SIU and the Seafarers Plans are conducting a series of benefits conferences at various hiring halls (the first took place in July). Seafarers, retirees and their families are strongly encouraged to attend at least one of the gatherings. Most of the conferences will take place the same days as the respective membership meetings for the given months. Designed to educate rank-and-file members as well as union employees, the conferences focus on various Seafarers Plans. Conference goals include making enrollees aware of benefits available to them under each plan. Special emphasis is placed on points that plan participants may not know about. There may be an exception or two, but each staff conference takes place ahead of the membership meeting, and is followed by a separate conference for members, dependents and retirees immediately after the membership meeting. The remaining schedule is as follows: Port Conference Date San Juan Thursday, September 7 Piney Point Monday, October 2 Jacksonville Thursday, October 5 Houston Monday, November 13 New Orleans Tuesday, November 14 Mobile Wednesday, November 15 Jersey City Thursday, November 30 Ft. Lauderdale Monday, February 19, 2024 Algonac Friday, March 8, 2024 September & October Membership Meetings Piney Point *Tuesday: September 5, Monday: October 2 Algonac Friday: September 8, October 6 Baltimore Thursday: September 7, October 5 Guam Thursday: September 21, October 19 Honolulu Houston Friday: September 15, October 13 Monday: September 11, **Tuesday: October 10 Jacksonville Joliet Thursday: September 7, October 5 Thursday: September 14, October 12 Mobile Wednesday: September 13, October 11 New Orleans Jersey City Tuesday: September 12, October 10 Tuesday: September 5, October 3 Norfolk Friday: September 8, October 6 Oakland Thursday: September 14, October 12 Philadelphia Wednesday: September 6, October 4 Port Everglades Thursday: September 14, October 12 San Juan Thursday: September 7, October 5 St. Louis Friday: September 15, October 13 Tacoma Friday: September 22, October 20 Wilmington Monday: September 18, October 16 *Piney Point change due to Labor Day Observance **Houston change due to Columbus Day Observance Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m 12 Seafarers LOG September 2023 �Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings MAERSK KINLOSS (Maersk Line, Limited), May 27 – Chairman Rufino Giray, Secretary Caezar Mercado, Educational Director Casey Frederick, Deck Delegate Christopher Justo, Engine Delegate Anatoli Vetsinov. Crew reviewed ship’s fund. Educational director advised members to upgrade at the Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested unlimited Wi-Fi access and a stronger connection via an additional router. Members would like medical exams to be required annually rather than every six months. Crew requested a chair for the gangway bridge, gym equipment, 30 for 30 vacation and wage increases. Next port: Charleston, South Carolina. SEABULK PRIDE (Eco Tankers Crew Management), May 30 – Chairman Brian Gauntt, Secretary Moses Scott. Contract posted in crew lounge. Starlink internet has been installed, but minor issues and bugs are still being worked on. Chairman and secretary gave positive reports. Educational director recommended members upgrade at the Piney Point school and stay up to date on credentials. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested increases to medical and pension benefits. Members discussed rotary position procedures and commended the steward department for a job well done. Next port: Long Beach, California. JEAN ANNE (PASHA), June 4 – Chairman Frank Hedge, Secretary Samuel Sinclair, Educational Director Richard Huffman, Deck Delegate Robert Knowlton, Engine Delegate Julius Bollozos, Steward Delegate Brandy Clemons. Chairman thanked crew for working safely and keeping ship clean. He encouraged members to keep vaccination records up to date and to leave clean rooms for oncoming reliefs. Secretary thanked crew for separating garbage and advised them to donate to SPAD, the union’s voluntary political action fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew expressed their appreciation for improvements to medical benefits. Members asked for annual physicals and commended steward department for providing good meals. Crew requested 30 for 30 vacation, increases to monthly pension payments, and expanded dental and optical coverage. Members discussed chiropractic care. Next port: Honolulu, Hawaii. KEYSTONE STATE (PacificGulf Marine), June 11 – Chairman Gheorghe Savencu, Educational Director Milan Dzurek. Chairman reminded crew to work diligently to prevent oil spills and commended their work on the deck plugs. Educational director suggested members upgrade at the Paul Hall Center to secure a lifetime of valuable benefits. Crew discussed ship’s wheel functional- The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted. Ships’ minutes first are reviewed by the union’s contract department. Those issues requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the union upon receipt of the ships’ minutes. The minutes are then forwarded to the Seafarers LOG for publication. ity with autopilot. Members reviewed issues regarding missing-man pay and penalty pay. Crew requested new air conditioning in SIU rec room. MAERSK SENTOSA (Maersk Line, Limited), June 11 – Chairman Mario Ordonez, Secretary Charles Brooks, Educational Director Jing Hui Huang. Chairman reminded crew of upcoming raise, taking effect July 1. Educational director advised members to upgrade at the union-affiliated Piney Point school. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested increases in work boot allowances and for company-paid travel to ship. Members asked for raises in vacation pay and for physicals to only be required annually. LIBERTY PASSION (Liberty Maritime Corporation), June 12 – Chairman Val Custis, Secretary Christopher Amigable, Engine Delegate Denzel Lalin, Steward Delegate Xander Farris. Payoff to occur June 15 in Tacoma, Washington, per chairman. Members were advised to keep documents up to date. Secretary thanked crew for keeping mess hall and lounge orderly and reminded everyone to leave fresh linen for reliefs. Educational director cautioned crew to allow extra time for renewing documents and to upgrade at the Paul Hall Center. He also encouraged everyone to donate to SPAD. No beefs or disputed OT reported. New fans in crew cabins and new mattresses have been formally requested. Vote of thanks was given to steward department for a job well done. Next port: Tacoma, Washington. USNS WATERS (Ocean Shipholdings Inc.), June 25 – Chairman Sergio CentenoAlvarez, Secretary Alexander Dominguez, Educational Director Randy Slue, Deck Delegate Michael Dibelardino, Steward Delegate Lamarai Jones. Chairman discussed starting a ship fund to purchase TVs. Educational director advised members to renew MMCs as soon as possible to avoid delays. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew discussed years of service requirement for retirement and asked for equal access to WiFi. Members requested change in vacation benefit. Crew asked for clarification on extra meal pay. Internet unavailable since last union meeting and crew’s requests for new mattresses were denied. EVERGREEN STATE (Intrepid Personnel & Provisioning), June 25 – Chairman John Cedeno, Secretary Roche Bonita, Educational Director Robert Noble. Ship Wi-Fi completion to occur in Jacksonville, Florida. Chairman addressed shipping rules by group and seniority in regards to sea days allowed by tour and reiterated the importance of SPAD. He also conducted a 401K worksheet exercise and advised crew to stay hydrated. Secretary reminded everyone to bag up dirty linen at sign off and to make sure to leave clean linen for oncoming members. Educational director urged crew to take advantage of the upgrading opportunities offered at the Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman reminded all rotary personnel to make sure to obtain a tour of duty form completed by captain at completion of tour. Chairman offered reminders about upcoming room sanitation inspection. Crew went over questions about retirement benefits. Members requested increases to vacation days and suggested a $200 boot allowance. Next port: Jacksonville, Florida. SEABULK PRIDE (Eco Tankers Crew Management), June 29 – Chairman Brian Gauntt, Secretary Moses Scott, Deck Delegate David Chance. Chairman reported a smooth trip. Secretary praised crew for keeping ship clean and having good attitudes. Educational director advised members to attend upgrading courses at the Piney Point school. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew reviewed collective bargaining agreement. Members requested repairing or replacing the juice machine. Crew would like increases to optical benefits and for completion of tour bonuses to be offered to reliefs. Steward department doing a good job. Next port: New Orleans. Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The Constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership’s money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the secretary-treasurer. A yearly finance committee of rank-and-file members, elected by the membership, each year examines the finances of the union and reports fully their findings and recommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District are administered in accordance with the provisions of various trust fund agreements. All these agreements specify that the trustees in charge of these funds shall equally consist of union and management representatives and their alternates. All expenditures and disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval by a majority of the trustees. All trust fund financial records are available at the headquarters of the various trust funds. SHIPPING RIGHTS. A member’s shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively by contracts between the union and the employers. Members should get to know their shipping rights. Copies of these contracts are posted and available in all union halls. If members believe there have been violations of their shipping or seniority rights as contained in the contracts between the union and the employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified mail, return September 2023 receipt requested. The proper address for this is: George Tricker, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Capital Gateway Drive Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers Appeals Board. CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU contracts are available in all SIU halls. These contracts specify the wages and conditions under which an SIU member works and lives aboard a ship or boat. Members should know their contract rights, as well as their obligations, such as filing for overtime (OT) on the proper sheets and in the proper manner. If, at any time, a member believes that an SIU patrolman or other union official fails to protect their contractual rights properly, he or she should contact the nearest SIU port agent. EDITORIAL POLICY — THE SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful to the union or its collective membership. This established policy has been reaffirmed by membership action at the September 1960 meetings in all constitutional ports. The responsibility for Seafarers LOG policy is vested in an editorial board which consists of the executive board of the union. The executive board may delegate, from among its ranks, one individual to carry out this responsibility. PAYMENT OF MONIES. No monies are to be paid to anyone in any official capacity in the SIU unless an official union receipt is given for same. Under no circumstances should any member pay any money for any reason unless he is given such receipt. In the event anyone attempts to require any such payment be made without supplying a receipt, or if a member is required to make a payment and is given an official receipt, but feels that he or she should not have been required to make such payment, this should immediately be reported to union headquarters. CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS. Copies of the SIU Constitution are available in all union halls. All members should obtain copies of this constitution so as to familiarize themselves with its contents. Any time a member feels any other member or officer is attempting to deprive him or her of any constitutional right or obligation by any methods, such as dealing with charges, trials, etc., as well as all other details, the member so affected should immediately notify headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU Constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Consequently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION (SPAD). SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and purposes including, but not limited to, furthering the political, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and furthering of the American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect and further his or her economic, political and social interests, and American trade union concepts. NOTIFYING THE UNION — If at any time a member feels that any of the above rights have been violated, or that he or she has been denied the constitutional right of access to union records or information, the member should immediately notify SIU President David Heindel at headquarters by certified mail, return receipt requested. The address is: David Heindel, President Seafarers International Union 5201 Capital Gateway Drive Camp Springs, MD 20746 Seafarers LOG 13 �Seafarers International Union Directory David Heindel, President Augustin Tellez, Executive Vice President Tom Orzechowski, Secretary-Treasurer George Tricker, Vice President Contracts Inquiring Seafarer This month’s question was answered by members and one pensioner in Piney Point, Maryland. Question: What are some things you like(d) about your job? Dean Corgey, Vice President Gulf Coast Nicholas J. Marrone, Vice President West Coast Joseph T. Soresi, Vice President Atlantic Coast Nicholas Celona, Vice President Government Services Bryan Powell, Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters HEADQUARTERS 5201 Capital Gateway Drive Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr., Algonac, MI 48001 (810) 794-4988 ANCHORAGE 721 Sesame St., #1C, Anchorage, AK 99503 (907) 561-4988 BALTIMORE 2315 Essex St., Baltimore, MD 21224 (410) 327-4900 GUAM P.O. Box 3328, Hagatna, Guam 96932 Cliffline Office Ctr. Bldg., Suite 103B 422 West O’Brien Dr., Hagatna, Guam 96910 (671) 477-1350 Frank Messick Pensioner (Sailed AB) I liked the travel. The pay was great and the education was fantastic. The brotherhood is another great thing. You see a lot of places you’d never even thought of. The friendships you get with your fellow union members. Julian Abreu Chief Cook Roslyn Anderson Chief Cook I like cooking and I like the people, my fellow crew members. Being able to cook with international products and experience different cultures – I love that. Michael Papaioannou Electrician Exploration and adventure. I would also say situations you don’t always run into, like making a barbeque for a lot of people on the ship. Keeping the customers happy, things like that. I actually enjoy that a lot. Traveling and working six months a year. The money is good, and you see new people all the time. I enjoy it. I’ve been with the union 20 years. Michael Jacob Caquias Chief Cook William Moran Chief Steward HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St., Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 625 N. York St., Houston, TX 77003 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 5100 Belfort Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32256 (904) 281-2622 JERSEY CITY 104 Broadway, Jersey City, NJ 07306 (201) 434-6000 It covers three things I like to do: I’m passionate about the sea, I love cooking, and I love providing the best for my daughter. With this job, I do all three with one shot. I get to interact with people from different cultural backgrounds and also get to play with food. I’ve been sailing since 2001 and have been with the union since 2014. JOLIET 10 East Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432 (815) 723-8002 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605 (251) 478-0916 Pics From The Past NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 NORFOLK 115 Third Street, Norfolk, VA 23510 (757) 622-1892 OAKLAND 1121 7th St., Oakland, CA 94607 (510) 444-2360 PHILADELPHIA 2604 S. 4 St., Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT 45353 St. George’s Avenue, Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 1221 S. Andrews Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 522-7984 SAN JUAN 659 Hill Side St., Summit Hills San Juan, PR 00920 (787) 721-4033 ST. LOUIS/ALTON 4581 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 TACOMA 3411 South Union Ave., Tacoma, WA 98409 (253) 272-7774 The SIU-crewed Sea-Land Portland is pictured in 1970 (bow) and 1973 (stern). The containership typically delivered food cargoes to Puerto Rico. Altogether, Sea-Land ships during that era called on the island’s major ports every 13 hours. WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave., Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4001/4002 If anyone has a vintage union-related photograph he or she would like to share with other Seafarers LOG readers, please send it to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Capital Gateway Drive, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Photographs will be returned, if so requested. High-resolution digital images may be sent to webmaster@seafarers.org 14 Seafarers LOG September 2023 �Welcome Ashore Each month, the Seafarers LOG pays tribute to the SIU members who have devoted their working lives to sailing aboard U.S.-flag vessels on the deep seas, inland waterways or Great Lakes. Listed below are brief biographical sketches of those members who recently retired from the union. The brothers and sisters of the SIU thank those members for a job well done and wish them happiness and good health in the days ahead. DEEP SEA RICHARD BORDEN Brother Richard Borden, 65, started his career with the union in 1978. He first shipped on the Aries and sailed in the deck department. Brother Borden upgraded at the Paul Hall Center on multiple occasions. He last sailed with Moran Towing of Maryland and makes his home in Hampstead, Maryland. BUDIMAN CHANDRA Brother Budiman Chandra, 71, joined the Seafarers International Union in 2004, initially sailing aboard the Alatna. He upgraded at the Piney Point school on multiple occasions and shipped in the steward department. Brother Chandra most recently sailed on the Overseas Martinez. He is a resident of Jacksonville, Florida. JORGE ELLIS Brother Jorge Ellis, 62, began sailing with the SIU in 1988. A steward department member, he first sailed aboard the Baltimore. Brother Ellis upgraded on several occasions at the Paul Hall Center and last shipped on the Seakay Star. He lives in Fort Pierce, Florida. ROBERT FIRTH Brother Robert Firth, 66, signed on with the SIU in 1970, first sailing with Michigan Tankers. He shipped in the steward department and up- graded at the union-affiliated Piney Point school on numerous occasions. Brother Firth most recently sailed on the USNS Seay. He resides in Powder Springs, Georgia. CAREY FOSTER Brother Carey Foster, 66, became a member of the Seafarers International Union in 1979 and first shipped on the Merrimac. He sailed primarily in the deck department and upgraded on multiple occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Foster’s final vessel was the Sumner. He resides in Conyers, Georgia. JAMES MORGAN Brother James Morgan, 65, embarked on his career with the Seafarers in 1987, initially working on the USNS Assertive. He was a member of the deck department and most recently shipped on the Jean Anne. Brother Morgan upgraded at the Piney Point school on multiple occasions. He calls Kamuela, Hawaii, home. ROLANDO SALAMAT Brother Rolando Salamat, 65, joined the SIU in 2007 when he sailed on the Pride of America. He sailed in the deck department and upgraded on several occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Salamat last shipped on the Louisiana and makes his home in Riviera Beach, Florida. He primarily worked in the deck department and upgraded at the Piney Point school on numerous occasions. Brother Solano last shipped on the Alliance St. Louis and resides in Houston. AHMED SULTAN Brother Ahmed Sultan, 68, began sailing with the Seafarers in 1997. He initially shipped on the USNS Capella and sailed in both the deck and engine departments. Brother Sultan upgraded at the Paul Hall Center on multiple occasions. He most recently shipped aboard the Maersk Columbus and lives in Staten Island, New York. INLAND JORGE BORGES DALMAU Brother Jorge Borges Dalmau, 70, embarked on his career with the Seafarers in 1976. He primarily worked in the deck department and sailed with Crowley Puerto Rico Services for the duration of his career. Brother Borges Dalmau makes his home in Kissimmee, Florida. CHARLES HODGES Brother Charles Hodges, 62, signed on with the union in 1984. He sailed in the deck department and first worked with G&H Towing. Brother Hodges upgraded at the Piney Point school on multiple occasions. He was last employed by Crowley Towing & Transportation and settled in Cuero, Texas. LONNIE KEYS Brother Lonnie Keys, 66, joined the Seafarers International Union in 1976 when he sailed with National Marine Services. He was a member of the deck department and upgraded at the Paul Hall Center on multiple occasions. Brother Keys last shipped with OLS Transport. He lives in Potosi, Missouri. ALBERT LONG Brother Albert Long, 57, signed on with the Seafarers in 1986. He sailed in both the deck and engine departments. Brother Long worked with Crescent Towing & Salvage for his entire career. He makes his home in Robert, Louisiana. ANTHONY ROMAN Brother Anthony Roman, 64, joined the SIU in 1978. He worked in the deck department and upgraded at the Piney Point school on numerous occasions. Brother Roman’s first and last employer was Moran Towing of Maryland. He is a Baltimore resident. NMU MICHAEL FOWLER Brother Michael Fowler, 66, joined the Seafarers International Union during the 2001 NMU/SIU merger. He shipped in the engine department and upgraded at the Paul Hall Center on multiple occasions. Brother Fowler’s final vessel was the Chesapeake Bay. He lives in Savannah, Georgia. STEVEN SANTOS Brother Steven Santos, 65, sailed with the NMU prior to the 2001 NMU/SIU merger. He sailed in the deck department and last worked with Boston Towing and Transportation. Brother Santos resides in Stuart, Florida. JOSEPH SHOEL Brother Joseph Shoel, 65, signed on with the union during the NMU/ SIU merger in 2001. He shipped in the engine department. Brother Shoel concluded his career aboard the Lykes Discoverer and makes his home in Seattle. With Seafarers Aboard Maersk Kinloss MARCELO SOLANO Brother Marcelo Solano, 65, signed on with the union in 1991, initially sailing on the Independence. Promoting Maritime, Workers’ Rights SIU Asst. VP Kris Hopkins (left) meets with U.S. Rep. Jared Moskowitz (D-Florida) at a labor roundtable event in Fort Lauderdale on Aug. 15. September 2023 Pictured aboard the vessel in Newark, New Jersey, are (back row, from left) ABM Robert Dunton, Recertified Steward Caezar Mercado, ABM Mahmoud Elsayes, SIU Port Agent Ray Henderson and QEE Tijani Rashid. In front are (also from left) AB Chris Justo and SA Wilson Palacios. Seafarers LOG 15 �Final Departures DEEP SEA CONSTANTINE BAILEY Pensioner Constantine Bailey, 81, passed away July 28. He signed on with the Seafarers International Union in 2001 and first sailed aboard the Marine Chemist. He sailed in both the deck and engine departments. Brother Bailey last shipped on the Overseas Chinook. He retired in 2021 and settled in Port Arthur, Texas. JOSE BAYANI Pensioner Jose Bayani, 97, died July 29. He became a member of the SIU in 1978 when he sailed aboard the Stuyvesant. Brother Bayani was a steward department member. He last shipped on the Horizon Pacific before becoming a pensioner in 2007. Brother Bayani made his home in San Jose, California. PAUL BURCKHARD Pensioner Paul Burckhard, 80, passed away June 27. He joined the union in 1970, initially sailing aboard the Topa Topa. Brother Burckhard primarily sailed in the engine department. He concluded his career aboard the El Faro in 2002. Brother Burckhard started collecting his pension in 2008 and was a resident of Tacoma, Washington. TOMAS DEL-ROSARIO Pensioner Tomas Del-Rosario, 81, died July 2. Born in the Philippines, he started sailing with the SIU in 1976. Brother Del-Rosario initially sailed with States Steamship Company and was a steward department member. He last shipped aboard the Independence and became a pensioner in 2001. Brother Del-Rosario lived in Bakersfield, California. JAY DILLON Pensioner Jay Dillon, 65, has passed away. First sailing aboard the Capricorn, he became a member of the SIU in 1979. Brother Dillon worked in the deck department. He went on pension 16 Seafarers LOG in 2018 after sailing aboard his final vessel, the Horizon Pacific. Brother Dillon resided in Gulfport, Mississippi. AMBROSIO FACHINI Pensioner Ambrosio Fachini, 80, died May 26. He embarked on his career with the Seafarers in 1966, initially sailing aboard the Overseas Joyce. Brother Fachini was a steward department member and last sailed on the American Merlin in 1999. He retired the following year and settled in Brazil. HOWARD HARE Pensioner Howard Hare, 88, passed away June 30. He joined the SIU in 1961 and first shipped with Bulk Ships Inc. Brother Hare was a member of the deck department and last shipped on the William Baugh. He went on pension in 1996 made his home in Mobile, Alabama. JOHN MAHONEY Pensioner John Mahoney, 88, died June 5. Born in Ireland, he began his career with the Seafarers in 1961. Brother Mahoney’s first vessel was the Rockypoint. A deck department member, he last shipped on the Endurance. Brother Mahoney retired in 1999 and resided in Seattle. 89, passed away July 17. Born in Greece, he signed on with the SIU in 1961. Brother Psanis first shipped a Sea-Land vessel. He was a deck department member and also worked on shore gangs. Brother Psanis went on pension in 1998. He called Sebastian, Florida, home. died July 22. He embarked on his career with the Seafarers in 1964, initially sailing on the Western Planet. Brother Vega shipped in the deck department. He last shipped aboard the Horizon Discovery and retired in 2004. Brother Vega was a Cleveland resident. JOSEPH QUINTELLA Pensioner Joseph Quintella, 81, died July 23. He signed on with the Seafarers in 1964. Brother Quintella’s first vessel was the Overseas Rose. He sailed in the engine department and also worked on shore gangs. Brother Quintella became a pensioner in 2002 and settled in Buckley, Washington. DAWUD YAMINI Pensioner Dawud Yamini, 78, passed away July 23. He signed on with the Seafarers International Union in 1991. Brother Yamini was first employed by Delta Queen Steamboat and primarily sailed in the deck department. He concluded his career aboard the Louis J. Hauge Jr. and became a pensioner in 2006. Brother Yamini resided in Brookhaven, Mississippi. CALVIN REID Pensioner Calvin Reid, 59, passed away June 19. He joined the Seafarers International Union in 1991. Brother Reid first shipped on the USNS Contender. He was a deck department member and most recently sailed aboard the Louisiana. Brother Reid became a pensioner earlier this year and made his home in Nashville, North Carolina. RONALD MOORE Pensioner Ronald Moore, 79, passed away July 19. He donned the SIU colors in 1962 when he shipped on the Del Valle. Working in the steward department, Brother Moore concluded his career aboard the Robert E. Lee. He became a pensioner in 1999 and settled in Mobile, Alabama. RONNIE RICHARDSON Pensioner Ronnie Richardson, 71, died July 25. He began sailing with the SIU in 1979. A steward department member, Brother Richardson first sailed aboard the Santa Maria. He concluded his career aboard the Blue Ridge and retired in 2016. Brother Richardson was a San Francisco resident. RAFAEL PEREIRA Pensioner Rafael Pereira, 83, died June 13. He became a member of the union in 1962, initially sailing with Sea Transport. Brother Pereira was a deck department member and also worked on shore gangs. He was last employed with American Service Technology and retired in 2015. Brother Pereira was a Houston resident. PERCIVAL SHAUGER Pensioner Percival Shauger, 95, passed away July 8. Brother Shauger signed on with the union in 1947. He first shipped aboard the Alice Brown and was a member of the steward department. Brother Shauger’s final vessel was the OMI Wabash. He went on pension in 1989 and lived in Madisonville, Texas. CHRISTOS PSANIS Pensioner Christos Psanis, RAFAEL VEGA Pensioner Rafael Vega, 83, GREAT LAKES JOHN CLARK Pensioner John Clark, 73, died July 5. He joined the SIU in 1971 when he sailed aboard a Great Lakes Associates ship. Brother Clark was a member of the deck department and last shipped on the Walter J. McCarthy. He went on pension in 2007 and settled in Duluth, Minnesota. INLAND JOHN BRYAN Pensioner John Bryan, 82, passed away July 22. He joined the SIU in 1980. Brother Bryan sailed in the deck department. He retired in 2003 after concluding his career with Crowley Towing and Transportation. Brother Bryan made his home in Orange Park, Florida. WILLIAM CARTER Pensioner William Carter, 82, died July 19. Signing on with the union in 1966, he first sailed with Berg Towing. Brother Carter worked in the deck department. He was last employed with Express Marine before going on pension in 2007. Brother Carter lived in Smyrna, Delaware. AMOS DANIELS Pensioner Amos Daniels, 89, has passed away. He began sailing with the Seafarers in 1976 and worked in the deck department. Brother Daniels was employed with Moran Towing of Virginia for almost all of his career. He became a pensioner in 1995 and called Chesapeake, Virginia, home. ISRAEL DEJESUS Pensioner Israel DeJesus, 62, died July 8. He joined the union in 1993. Brother DeJesus was a deck department member. He retired in 2019 after concluding his career with Port Imperial Ferry. Brother DeJesus resided in Maywood, New Jersey. CHARLIE FOSTER Pensioner Charlie Foster, 85, passed away July 15. He donned the union colors in 1961 and first worked with Gulf Atlantic Transport. Brother Foster shipped in the deck department. He last worked with Express Marine and became a pensioner in 2002. Brother Foster was a resident of Belhaven, North Carolina. JAMES GODWIN Pensioner James Godwin, 82, died June 17. He became a member of the Seafarers International Union in 1981. Brother Godwin was a deck department member. He retired in 2008 after concluding his career with Allied Transportation. Brother Godwin called Portsmouth, Virginia, home. CHARLES ROLLINS Pensioner Charles Rollins, 90, passed away July 20. He signed on with the union in 1961 and first sailed with Gulf Atlantic Transport. Brother Rollins was a deck department member and last worked for OSG Ship Management. He became a pensioner in 1995 and lived in Claremont, Virginia. FREDERICK TAYLOR Pensioner Frederick Taylor, 68, died July 3. He embarked on his career with the SIU in 1970, initially sailing with Michigan Tankers. Brother Taylor primarily shipped in the engine department. He last worked with Allied Transportation and retired in 1993. Brother Taylor resided in Portsmouth, Virginia. BLAINE VALOIS Brother Blaine Valois, 64, passed away June 6. Born in Pineville, Louisiana, he joined the union in 1998. Brother Valois was employed by E.N. Bisso & Son Inc for the duration of his career. He lived in Cottonport, Louisiana. September 2023 �Paul Hall Center Upgrading Course Dates The following is a list of courses that currently are scheduled to be held at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Maryland during the next several months. More courses may be added. Course additions and cancellations are subject to change. All programs are geared toward improving the job skills of Seafarers and promoting the American maritime industry. Seafarers who have any questions regarding the upgrading courses offered at the Paul Hall Center may call the admissions office at (301) 994-0010. Title of Course Start Date Date of Completion Deck Department Upgrading Courses Able Seafarer-Deck October 23 November 10 Lifeboat/Water Survival September 25 October 23 October 6 November 3 RFPNW October 9 November 13 October 27 December 1 Advanced Shiphandling September 25 October 6 Advanced Stability October 9 October 13 Advanced Meteorology October 16 October 20 Search & Rescue Management Level October 23 October 25 Title of Course Start Date Date of Completion Safety/Open Upgrading Courses Basic Training October 9 October 13 Basic Training (Revalidation) September 25 September 29 October 23 September 25 September 29 October 23 Government Vessels September 11 September 25 October 16 October 23 November 6 September 15 September 29 October 20 October 27 November 10 Tank Ship Familiarization DL September 18 September 22 Tank Ship Familiarization LG September 25 October 9 September 29 October 13 Engine Department Upgrading Courses RFPEW November 13 December 15 FOWT October 2 October 27 Junior Engineer Program October 23 December 15 Marine Electrician September 18 October 20 Advanced Refer Containers October 23 November 3 Pumpman September 18 September 22 Machinist September 25 October 13 Welding October 16 November 3 Steward Department Upgrading Courses Certified Chief Cook September 25 October 30 December 4 October 27 December 1 January 5 ServSafe Management September 18 October 23 November 27 September 22 October 27 December 1 Advanced Galley Operations October 16 November 10 Chief Steward September 11 November 13 October 6 December 8 UPGRADING APPLICATION Name ________________________________________________________________________ Address ______________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ Telephone (Home)_________________________ (Cell)_________________________ Date of Birth __________________________________________________________________ Deep Sea Member o Lakes Member o Inland Waters Member o If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security #_______________________ Book #_________________________________ Seniority_____________________________ Department_____________________________ Home Port____________________________________________________________________ E-mail_______________________________________________________________________ Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held_____________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ Are you a graduate of the SHLSS/PHC trainee program? o Yes o No If yes, class # and dates attended __________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? oYes o No _____________________________________________________________________________ With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty-five (125) days seatime for the previous year, MMC, TWIC, front page of your book including your department and seniority and qualifying sea time for the course if it is Coast Guard tested. Must have a valid SHBP clinic through course date. I authorize the Paul Hall Center to release any of the information contained in this application, or any of the supporting documentation that I have or will submit with this application to related organizations, for the purpose of better servicing my needs and helping me to apply for any benefits which might become due to me. September 2023 COURSE ____________________________ ____________________________ START DATE _______________ _______________ DATE OF COMPLETION ________________________ ________________________ ____________________________ _______________ ________________________ ____________________________ _______________ ________________________ ____________________________ _______________ ________________________ ____________________________ _______________ ________________________ LAST VESSEL: ___________________________________ Rating: ____________________ Date On: _______________________________ Date Off:____________________________ SIGNATURE ____________________________________ DATE______________________ NOTE: Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only if you present original receipts and successfully complete the course. If you have any questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. Not all classes are reimbursable. Return completed application to: Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education Admissions Office, Email:upgrading@seafarers.org Mail: 45353 St. George’s Ave., Piney Point, MD 20674 Fax: 301-994-2189. The Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education is a private, non-profit, equal opportunity institution and admits students, who are otherwise qualified, or any race, nationality or sex. The school complies with applicable laws with regard to admission, access or treatment of students in its programs or activities. 9/23 Seafarers LOG 17 �Paul Hall Center Classes Apprentice Water Survival Class #897 – Graduated July 14 (above, in alphabetical order): Darwin Alvarez-Lopez, Isaiah Jaim Balicha, Andrew Brown, D’Angelo Brown, Dedrick Carpenter, Patrick English, Christopher Flood, Lawrence Girard III, Theodore Hampton IV, Jacob Isaacs, Jonathan Jeronimo, Jacob Kemper, Victor Mak, Shaderricka McLaurin, Troy Mitchell, David Rojas and Ernest Ross Jr. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Government Vessels – Graduated July 21 (above, in alphabetical order): Amado Paulito Estimada Angeles, Joseph Bowen, Randall Campbell, Joshua Chamorro, Wilbur Edwards Jr., Raymond Forse, Ronald Glenn Jr., Eric Hondel, Calvin Johnson, Montree Nakwichet, Fidel Saludo Pascua, Mused Saleh, Terry Taylor Jr., Lucas Tiderman, and Gerald Toledo. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Junior Engineer - Basic Electricity – Graduated July 28 (above, in alphabetical order): Majed Alsharif, Christian Fredrick, Mohammed Gir, Tracy Mitchell Jr., Michael Papaioannou, Corey Reseburg, Alonzo Devinn Sanz, Tara Trillo, Jorge Valencia Bon, Oscar Jan Vencer III and Roberto Wadsworth. Instructor Roy Graham is also pictured (far right). Water Survival (Lifeboatman) – Graduated July 14: Tammy Gammage. Instructor Charles A. Noell III is also pictured (right). 18 Seafarers LOG Fast Rescue Boat – July 21 (above, in alphabetical order): Kingdom Alozie, Aaron Burnett, Raymond Green, Vernon Humbles, and Terence Pitts. Phase III Deck – Graduated July 14 (above, in alphabetical order): Tahjarian Campbell, Ayman Elahi Jr., Tahj Horton, Stephen Hoskins, Adam Mason, Cody Miranda, Jawuam Mixon, Jovanny Otero Negron, Malik Oxendine Jr., Nick Randall, and Ubaydulwakeel Shambley. RFPNW – Graduated July 14 (above, in alphabetical order): Ryan Heimberger, Jamzie Shepard III, Dacobi Timmons and Marvin White. September 2023 �Students Helping Students Apprentices from the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education recently volunteered for an annual back-to-school event sponsored by the local NAACP. Pictured in the photo below are trainees Christian Smith, Laron James, Brize Agbayani, Robert Crain, J’lon Williams, Dallas Smith, Adam Mason, Marcus Olmedo, Nick Randall, Ayman Elahi, Tajh Horton, Jovanny Otero and Cody Miranda (along with longtime Paul Hall Center employee Howard Thompson, third from left). Standing at far right in the photo at right is Maryland Delegate Todd Morgan (from St. Mary’s County). Notice Members Approve Changes to 4 Ports During the August membership meetings, votes were taken at all of the union’s constitutional ports on a matter proposed by SIU President Dave Heindel and unanimously approved by the SIU Executive Board to change the status of four informational port facilities: the halls in Norfolk, Virgina; Jacksonville, Florida; Wilmington, California; and Tacoma, Washington. A majority of the voting membership concurred and, as a result, effective October 1, 2023, the port offices in Norfolk, Jacksonville, Wilmington and Tacoma will all be classified as constitutional ports – meaning that official actions can be taken at the meetings in those ports, along with all other constitutional ports, starting with the October membership meetings. Paul Hall Center, Union Host Military Sealift Command Officials The SIU and its affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in late July hosted a quarterly labor-management meeting at the school that also included personnel from the U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC), the MM&P and the MEBA. Attendees covered a wide range of topics pertaining to federal-sector mariners. Following the meeting, they toured the campus in Piney Point, Maryland. Among those pictured in the posed photo (right to left, starting at far right) are SIU Representative Sam Spain, SIU Counsel Jon Madden, SIU VP Government Services Nicholas Celona and (far left) SIU Asst. VP Joe Vincenzo. September 2023 Seafarers LOG 19 �SEPTEMBER 2023 VOLUME 85, NO. 9 O F F I C I A L P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E S E A F A R E R S I N T E R N AT I O N A L U N I O N AT L A N T I C , G U L F, L A K E S A N D I N L A N D W AT E R S , A F L- C I O Norfolk Hall Grand Reopening Pages 10-11 Greetings from the USNS Mary Sears Many thanks to AMO member Ed McDonnell for these snapshots from the USNS Mary Sears (Ocean Shipholdings). The group photo was taken in Sydney, Australia. SIU members in the various photos include Recertified Bosun Joe Gierbolini, ABs Julian Lina, Mark Bolitho and Toby Blunt, OS Mohamed Saleh, QMEDs Mackenzie Latta, Peter Solis and Russ Bravo, Storekeeper Ana Calma, GVA Chris Gonse and SA Surait Kajuna. Ed also offered special kudos to Gierbolini, who "is above and beyond. He's super safety-conscious and always taking care of everyone. Amazing guy and has his kids following him into the industry.” A creative approach to life ring storage. Recertified Bosun Joe Gierbolini, alongside a 35-lb Mahi Mahi he caught. Storekeeper 20 Seafarers LOGAna Calma The crew of the USNS Mary Sears poses for a photo while in Sydney, Australia. QMED Mackenzie Latta SA Surait Kajuna AB Toby Blunt QMED Peter Solis AB Mark Bolitho May 2023 OS Mohamed Saleh � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 2020-present Description An account of the resource Volumes LXXXII of the Seafarers Log and beyond Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource September 2023 Description An account of the resource NORFOLK HALL REOPENS PASHA CHRISTENS JANET MARIE PRESIDENT BIDEN GIVES A SHOUT-OUT TO THE SIU STEWARDS COMPLETE RECERTIFICATION EVENT HIGHLIGHTS IMPORTANCE OF FOOD FOR PEACE CROWLEY ORDERS NEW TUG Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 09/01/2023 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 85, No. 9 2023 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/5c38707e606209f90380780dd739c8fc.pdf bbe57d39f17fe2184f902bd876d8ff6b PDF Text Text SEAFARERS LOG SEPTEMBER 2024 VOLUME 86, NO. 9 Seafarers to the Rescue! SIU members recently provided timely assistance to people in need, during separate incidents on the water. In mid-July, Seafarers aboard the Garden State (Intrepid Personnel and Provisioning) supplied food and water for 27 Cuban migrants whose makeshift boat had lost power and was falling apart near Key West, Florida. The SIU and AMO members on the Garden State (pictured above) secured and stayed with the distressed craft until U.S. Coast Guard personnel arrived. Just a few days later, SIU members employed by G&H Towing rescued four individuals whose tugboat had overturned after a collision with the Liberian-flag vessel Yangze 7 in the Houston Ship Channel. Those Seafarers – pictured from left aboard their boat, the George M – are Mate Tyler Walker, Wiper Hunter Legge, Chief Engineer Richard “Trey” Zyvoloski, Mate Stayton Sartor, and Capt. Jordan Ward. Tragically, one of the boatmen from the sunken tug perished. Coverage of the Garden State operation appears on page 4, while the George M article is on page 8. R �President’s Report Brotherhood of the Sea O n behalf of our entire executive board, I extend thanks and appreciation for the tremendous work done by Seafarers during two recent lifesaving efforts on the job. One involved the SIU-crewed Garden State rendering aid to 27 Cuban migrants who were in danger off the Florida coast. The other featured the Seafarers-crewed tug George M picking up four boatmen from a different vessel that had been struck by a ship in Houston. Tragically, one of the crew members from the stricken tug perished in the accident. I trust you will read those respective stories elsewhere in this edition. In the meantime, I can’t say enough about the professionalism, composure and selflessness demonstrated by all of the SIU brothers and sisters who handled these operations. You rose to the occasion and made us all proud. Congratulations on jobs well done, and on upholding the finest traditions of the Brotherhood of the Sea. Sound Rationale For anyone who missed last month’s LOG, my message primarily aimed to “lower the temperature” in our political discussions, regardless of one’s preferred candidates. While that notion may almost seem quaint just a few weeks later, I do appreciate the feedback received from members, pensioners and even some of our operators. Your responses reinforced my belief that on some level, we’ll all be grateful when Election Day is in the rearview mirror. With that said, I’d be remiss in not touching on some of the basic rationale for the union’s recent endorsement of Kamala Harris and Tim Walz (a former union member). The Biden-Harris administration has supported workers’ rights and the maritime industry from their earliest days in the White House. This includes ironclad backing of the Jones Act, the Maritime Security Program, the Tanker Security Program, and cargo preference laws. We have enjoyed unprecedented access to the current administration and would strongly anticipate a similar, if not a greater level of interaction if Kamala Harris becomes the president. Additionally, the Biden-Harris National Labor Relations Board has issued a whole host of pro-labor/pro-worker decisions throughout its tenure. It is a night-and-day difference from board members appointed by the current administration compared to the previous one. Major Maritime Bill Imminent Comprehensive, bipartisan legislation to revitalize the U.S. maritime industry is expected to be introduced in Congress in the very near future. The SIU has been working closely with other representatives from throughout the industry to provide useful input on the draft legislation, which is co-sponsored by Sen. Mark Kelly (D-Arizona), Sen. Marco Rubio (R-Florida), Rep. Mike Waltz (R-Florida), and Rep. John Garamendi (D-California). During a National Maritime Day address earlier this year in the nation’s capital, U.S. Sen. Mark Kelly (D-Arizona) describes his vision for a maritime revitalization bill. Seafarers LOG Volume 86 Number 9 September 2024 The SIU online: www.seafarers.org The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 1086-4636) is published monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters, AFLCIO; 5201 Capital Gateway Drive; Camp Springs, MD 20746. Telephone (301) 899-0675. Periodicals postage paid at Southern Maryland 207909998. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Capital Gateway Drive, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Communications Director: Jordan Biscardo Assistant Communications Director: Nick Merrill Assistant Editor: Aja Neal Administrative Support: Jenny Stokes Copyright © 2024 Seafarers International Union, AGLIW. All Rights Reserved. The SIU engaged an environmentally friendly printer for the production of this newspaper. 2 • SEAFARERS LOG Despite the former president’s public disavowals of Project 2025, most of its authors served in his first administration, and many are prime candidates to come back for a second one – and, therefore, to be in a position to push its anti-maritime, anti-worker components. In a worst-case scenario (which isn’t out of the question), Project 2025 could eliminate trade unions (and your contracts and benefits). The document calls for repeal or reform of the Jones Act, one of several misguided offerings regarding maritime. It would be too risky to have the drafters and major contributors that close to the Oval Office. My bottom line on Project 2025 is that it defies common sense to think none of it would come to fruition, and if someone is basically telling you they’re thinking of putting you out of business, you should take them seriously. Also as mentioned last month, I have no interest in trying to tell anyone how to vote. But it is part of my job to identify candidates who I believe will work in your best interests (at every level of government). To me, the choice is clear in this year’s presidential race. If you agree, talk to your families, friends and neighbors about the issues of importance and ask them to support the Harris/ Walz ticket. Truly Inspirational Last but not least, I congratulate the newest class of recertified stewards, who graduated in early August in Piney Point. There is never any shortage of incentive in this job, but hearing the graduation speeches always adds fuel to the motivational fire. There are no better ambassadors for our union than the rank-and-file members who know the SIU (and our affiliated school) the best. Their diverse backgrounds all converge in a collaborative, ongoing success story that traces its roots to our founding in 1938. In all the decades since then, so many Seafarers have found their calling in this union and this industry. Whether they’re legacies or trailblazers, “lifers” or in their second act, they contribute to and embody our collective success. The graduation remarks reinforced the life-changing career opportunities available through the SIU. Let’s continue working together to keep those pathways open. A very recent draft version of the untitled bill spanned 267 pages. Highlights included expanding cargo preference, new stipend programs, tax incentives, greater focus on workforce development and retention, and more. Kelly, a former mariner (in addition to his military service), addressed many of these components during his National Maritime Day speech earlier this year in the nation’s capital. Speaking at U.S. Department of Transportation headquarters (with a large SIU contingent on hand), Kelly mentioned that he graduated from the Merchant Marine Academy in 1986, and that his grandfather sailed as a mariner in the Atlantic during World War II. “The U.S. Merchant Marine and our maritime industry are incredibly important to me,” he stated. “We need to seriously and urgently reorient and rebuild our maritime industry…. I am working on and developing legislation to do exactly that.” The senator acknowledged that, when he and other legislators began the effort to craft the aforementioned bill, he was surprised by the breadth and complexity of challenges facing the industry. “Take, for example, our U.S.-flagged international fleet,” he said. “When I graduated from Kings Point in 1986, there were about 400 or so U.S.-flagged oceangoing ships. Today, that number has fallen to about 80 ships operating in international commerce flying the U.S. flag. By the way, China has nearly 5,500. “The reason for this change can almost entirely be attributed to policy decisions,” Kelly continued. “They were decisions made by prior administrations and prior congresses.” After describing the cost differences between operating an American-flag ship in international commerce compared to a foreign-flag vessel, Kelly stated, “If we want our merchant fleet to compete, we need to make some changes, and that means Congress needs to look at financial incentives for private companies to consider shipping cargo on U.S.-flag vessels. We can do this. We can do it through tax credits and other financial tools. We need the American government to make sure taxpayer dollars aren’t being used to ship cargo on foreign vessels, including those made or operated by China. We should restore the cargo preference requirements and agency reimbursements with which Congress undid in 2012.” A decorated U.S. Navy combat veteran, Kelly said that “because maritime security is a critical component of our national security, we need to reform our bedrock maritime security programs to increase the base stipend for the Maritime Security Program, the Cable Security Fleet and the Tanker Security Program. And we should make the common-sense changes of clarifying that shipping companies should not pay taxes on this stipend. I also believe that this means that we need to consider regulatory reforms like looking for efficiencies to improve the way the Coast Guard licenses and regulates vessels and evaluate whether there are ways for carriers and maritime labor to modernize workplace liability protections. And at the same time, we need to examine how the duties and taxes on foreign-flag vessels that come to American ports can more closely mirror what our vessels are required to pay by adversaries like China. I believe that these efforts can bend the cost curve… However, that’s just one piece of this equation. To truly reclaim our maritime industrial base and our heritage as a seafaring nation, we need to revitalize and rebuild our shipbuilding sector as well.” The senator explained how domestic yards are quite capable, but struggle to compete against foreign yards that receive billions of dollars in annual subsidies. He then proposed several potential solutions, including tax credits. Turning to the topic of shipboard manpower, Kelly called for “significant investments in the institutions that produce hundreds of qualified American mariners every year…. At the same time, we also need to do a better job of training qualified able-bodied seamen, and we can do this through supporting the union schools and also expanding the existing MARAD centers of excellence.” The training centers aren’t enough, he added. “We need to make sure that American workers realize that working at sea or working in an American shipyard is a good job and that it can be a good-paying job,” he said. “This starts with raising awareness for these careers. It also might require added incentives for students, like public service loan forgiveness or additional tax benefits for mariners who go to sea.” He concluded, “Rebuilding our domestic maritime industry will supercharge our economy and create great paying jobs while also enhancing our military readiness and allowing us to more strategically compete with China. I need all of your help to make sure that we can turn these concepts into concrete legislation and then we’ve got to work together to get this across the finish line.” SEPTEMBER 2024 �Bunker Barge Signals New Work for Seafarers The Progress can transport 3.17 million gallons. (Photo courtesy Crowley) S IU-contracted Crowley on July 31 announced that it had accepted delivery of the LNG bunker barge Progress, the largest U.S. Jones Act-compliant vessel of its kind, after construction was completed at Fincantieri Bay Shipbuilding in Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin. In a news release, Crowley noted, “The Progress will expand access to cleaner energy for ship operators at the Port of Savannah, Georgia, upon final commissioning there…. Shell NA LNG, LLC, (Shell) signed a long-term agreement with Crowley to operate the barge, providing another fueling location to ships using liquefied natural gas.” “This is another milestone for Crowley and a welcome addition to the Seafarers-crewed fleet,” said SIU Assistant Vice President Mike Russo. “As always, we are excited about the new jobs, and I know that SIU members will rise to the occasion.” “The Progress LNG bunker barge sets a new standard for quality and capability to serve the energy needs of the shipping industry,” said James C. Fowler, senior vice president and general manager, Crowley Shipping. “LNG offers a safe and reliable solution for ocean carriers that advances the transition to lower emissions. We congratulate the people whose dedication and hard work in designing and building this worldclass vessel allowed us to reach this milestone for the U.S. industry and our customers.” Designed by Crowley’s engineering services group, the 416-foot-long barge has a capacity of 3.17 million gallons and features “a transformative design, enabling efficient and dependable supply of LNG to fuel ships,” the company reported. “Progress’ technologies include capability developed by Shell and Crowley’s engineering services group to flexibly deliver LNG to various types of LNG containment systems.” LNG is the lowest carbon fuel currently available to shipping at scale, emitting up to 23% less greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions (well-to-wake) compared to very/ultra-low sulfur fuel oil. SIU, Rest of Labor Movement Enthusiastically Support Harris-Walz in White House Run This year’s presidential election took an unprecedented turn when President Biden – a longtime friend of the SIU and ardent supporter of workers’ rights and the U.S. maritime industry – decided not to seek re-election. In the days and weeks that followed, the SIU, the AFL-CIO, and virtually the rest of the entire labor movement rallied in support of Vice President Kamala Harris and, subsequently, former union member Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz after he was chosen as her running mate. The SIU Executive Board on July 30 unanimously voted to endorse Harris. The board later updated its endorsement to indicate unhesitating support for Walz. After the initial endorsement, SIU President David Heindel said, “Our union has worked with Vice President Harris for many years, dating back to her time as San Francisco District Attorney and continuing right up to today. Throughout her career, she has been a true champion of working families and a solid supporter of the U.S. Merchant Marine. I am extremely confident that she is the best candidate for our industry and for the labor movement.” The board pointed out that Vice President Harris currently is a key partner in what is arguably the most pro-labor, pro-maritime administration in modern times. She played a vital role in rebuilding our nation’s infrastructure while investing in good-paying union jobs. Her leadership has helped bring back manufacturing jobs to America; saved the pensions of more than a million union members and retirees; lowered prescription drug costs; and boosted workers’ rights to choose union representation. She is an outspoken advocate of organized labor’s top legislative priority, the Protecting the Right to Organize (PRO) Act. SEPTEMBER 2024 Trustees Approve Doubling Credit for Covered Employment Trustees of the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP) have announced an improvement that should make it easier for SIU members to maintain eligibility for benefits. Effective January 1, 2024 (this year), the trustees modified the SHBP’s regulations so that Seafarers receive full credit towards covered employment whenever they are taking required courses at the SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland. Specifically, whereas members participating in a qualified upgrading course at the Paul Hall Center’s Lundeberg School previously received employment credits for half of the course’s length, they now will receive full credit for each day of the class. In effect, the trustees doubled the credit. The specific amendment pertains to “Article 1., Definitions, Paragraph 7, Covered Employment, subparagraph e.” The newly approved entry reads as follows: “All days that an employee is participating, either remotely or in person, in a qualified upgrading course at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship; provided that such course is successfully completed and provided that the employee met the School’s eligibility requirements immediately prior to beginning the course.” (The words “all days” replaced “one half of the time.”) During her service as a United States Senator, Harris also strongly supported the PRO Act; introduced legislation to extend overtime rights and guarantee new minimum-wage rights to agricultural workers; sponsored a bill to ensure the rights of domestic workers; walked a union picket line, and much more. “As a United States Senator, I’ve been proud to stand with you in support of policies that ensure that our maritime industry remains strong, and that American workers have access to these good-paying jobs,” Harris said in an address to SIU officials. Heindel concluded, “We are not in the business of trying to tell our members how to vote, but I fully believe that any honest review of Vice President Harris’ career would clearly show that she has supported our key issues at every step along the way. She is pro-maritime, pro-union and pro-worker, and she will do a great job as the next Commander in Chief.” Following a late-July vote of the AFL-CIO Executive Council (Heindel serves on the group), which represents 60 unions and 12.5 million workers, the federation unanimously endorsed Harris for president. “From day one, Vice President Kamala Harris has been a true partner in leading the most pro-labor administration in history,” said AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler. “At every step in her distinguished career in public office, she’s proven herself a principled and tenacious fighter for working people and a visionary leader we can count on. From taking on Wall Street and corporate greed to leading efforts to expand affordable child care and support vulnerable workers, she’s shown time and again that she’s on our side. With Kamala Harris in the White House, together we’ll continue to build on the powerful legacy of the Biden-Harris administration to create good union jobs, grow the labor movement and make our economy work for all of us.” On Aug. 6, following Harris’ section of Walz, Shuler said, “By selecting Gov. Tim Walz as her running mate, Kamala Harris chose a principled fighter and labor champion who will stand up for working people and strengthen this historic ticket. We know that Gov. Walz will be a strong partner in the Harris White House, fighting every day to improve the lives of workers in communities across America. Gov. Walz isn’t only an ally to the labor movement, but also our union brother with a deep commitment to a pro-worker agenda. The labor movement stands united behind the Harris–Walz ticket, and we are ready to help lead the effort to defeat Donald Trump, JD Vance, and their anti-worker Project 2025 agenda in November.” Walz is a former public school teacher and union member. He has delivered on a comprehensive, pro-union legislative package and created the gold standard for state governments aiming to do right by workers. He has enacted some of the most pro-worker packages of legislation of any state in the country, including laws to guarantee paid family and medical leave and mandate paid sick days; prohibit noncompete clauses; bar employers from holding anti-union captive audience meetings; strengthen protections for meatpacking workers and Amazon warehouse employees; strengthen the collective bargaining power of teachers’ unions, including allowing bargaining over educator-to-student classroom ratios; and create a statewide council to improve conditions for nursing home workers, among numerous other accomplishments both as governor and when he served in the U.S. House of Representatives. SEAFARERS LOG •SEAFARERS OCTOBER 2023 LOG • 3 3 �Garden State Crew Assists Migrants Near Dry Tortugas SIU and AMO members aboard the Garden State (Intrepid Personnel and Provisioning) recently rendered crucial aid to 27 Cuban migrants near the isle of Dry Tortugas in Florida. The Garden State on July 16 received a distress call regarding the migrants, whose makeshift raft was failing. The Alexis M, a fishing vessel coming from Key West, initially contacted the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) concerning the vessel in distress, but Coast Guard personnel couldn’t establish consistent communication with the migrants. The agency then reached out to the Garden State to ask for assistance. Seafarers on the Intrepid ship included Bosun Derrick Alexander Jr., ABs Willie Grimes, Larelle Reid Jr., Calos Colon, Muhammad Khalid, and La'Terri Kohn, QEP Michael Banks, QE4 Troy Hubbard Jr., Oiler Nicholas Sweeney, Steward/Baker Nicoll Quinones-Rodriguez, Chief Cook Stacy Fuller, SA Victoria Butler, and Paul Hall Center Apprentice James Randall III. When the Garden State pulled alongside the distressed migrant craft, mariners saw that it contained 23 men and four women – and that it was slowly collapsing. The raft apparently consisted of wood and Styrofoam. Multilingual Seafarers Quinones-Rodriguez and Colon translated for the migrants and relayed information between them and the Coast Guard. They learned that the raft’s motor had failed three days ago and that the migrants had been navigating the ocean using wooden paddles since, and that they had no food or water left. The Garden State crew proved instrumental in relaying information to USCG Sector Key West. The crew was then called on to provide assistance as the USCG made an effort to get assets to the rescue site, which was estimated to take about three or four hours. After a few attempts, the Garden State maneuvered close enough with the fracturing migrant vessel. Chief Mate Shamus McDaniel along with support from the ship’s deck department helped bring the boat safely aside the Garden State. Captain Chris Menezes quickly ordered the accommodation ladder to be made ready in case the boat continued to fall apart. Fortunately, the vessel stabilized at approximately 0906 when the Garden State was alongside with lee made in order to prevent further collapse. The Garden State crew shared water, cool rags, hydration packets, bananas and strawberries with the migrants. One migrant seemingly fainted from dehydration/ heat exhaustion, but his breathing remained stable. After relaying this information to the Coast Guard, the crew decided it was safest to continue to keep them safely alongside until the USCG reached their location. At about 1024 USCG personnel arrived on scene followed by United States Customs and Border Protection agents. The migrants were transferred to USCG small boats and were taken from the area. By 1112, the Garden State was dismissed and continued on its voyage. According to Captain Menzes’s report of the incident, the Garden State crew did a wonderful job assisting the migrant vessel. “[The migrants] may have drifted for an unknown amount of time in the open ocean on a deteriorating raft without food or water if not for the assistance of the Garden State,” he said. “All departments all had a big hand in getting these people to safety. Well done by all.” 4 • SEAFARERS LOG These photos show various stages of the humanitarian outreach by the Garden State and the subsequent arrival of Coast Guard personnel. SEAFARERS LOG • OCTOBER 2023 4 SEPTEMBER 2024 �The most recent class of Recertified Stewards (from left to right): Delia Peters, Cayetano Toledor, Jesus Pacheco, Johnson Ashun, Emanuel Spain and Lamont Faulks. (Faulks was unable to attend the graduation ceremony due to a family emergency.) Six Recertified Stewards Reach the Mountaintop Seafarers comprising the most recent class of recertified stewards have proven their skills, while also learning more about the inner workings of the industry during the two-week course. Reaching the highest level of vocational training in their department in a graduation ceremony conducted on August 5 were Johnson Ashun, Lamont Faulks, Jesus Pacheco, Delia Peters, Emanuel Spain and Cayetano Toledo. The newly minted recertified stewards passed an all-encompassing training course, including leadership and social responsibilities, computer technology, various Coast Guard requirement updates, baking skills and other department-specific workshops on nutrition, sanitation and more. Most of the class took place at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Maryland. The curriculum also included a day at the union’s headquarters, located in Camp Springs, Maryland. The following quotes were provided by the graduates, both in written form and as speeches given to fellow members, union officials, apprentices, Paul Hall Center staff and others in attendance at the August membership meeting in Piney Point. Johnson Ashun Ashun, who joined the union in 2004, recounted his journey to reaching recertified status. Sailing out of Wilmington, California, he spoke about his family ties to the union, citing his uncles and brothers as his primary motivation to begin his career at sea. “At the beginning of my career, I joined the NMU (which later merged into the SIU),” he said. “I was so fortunate to work with a company called Alaska Tanker for many years, and it was a blessing. I have enjoyed being a merchant mariner, and my family is so proud of me. Everything I have, came from this union.” He then shared a story from his sailing career, detailing a close call with pirates in the Strait of Malacca: “We had an alarm ring out on the ship. We all ran down to the emergency station and the captain told us to be alert, and that there was a pirate attack on the ship. It was nighttime, so we slowly came to realize they were not attacking our ship, but another vessel that was a couple of ships in front of us. But we were an American ship, so there were Navy ships protecting us. We didn't even know if we would wake up in the morning, but the whole time we were protected because we were American Merchant Mariners.” Lamont Faulks Hailing from Norfolk, Virginia, Faulks started sailing in 2006. Due to a family emergency, he was unable to give his speech during the ceremony, but in his prepared remarks, he relayed the following messages: “I was introduced to shipping through a family friend when I was 20 years old. It was the best decision of my life. Through sailing with the SIU I was able see the world, and make good money doing it.” He also acknowledged some of the people whom he credited with helping him achieve his goals, writing, “I would like to thank all of the officials on the (executive) SEPTEMBER 2024 board. I would also like to thank the instructors, and everyone in the Norfolk hall. I would like to remind the trainees to stay focused and never give up. Don't forget to upgrade. Don't forget it is important to donate to SPAD, and support the Jones Act.” Jesus Pacheco Pacheco, who sails from San Juan, Puerto Rico, stated, “Today is a very special day in my life. In 2008, I was unemployed, jumping from one low-paying job to another. Then in March of 2009, I visited the SIU Hall in Santurce, and two months later I became a trainee here at Piney Point.” He continued, “Since that moment, my life took a 180-degree turn for the better. This school gave me the necessary tools that I needed to succeed in life and to become a part of this great family called the Seafarers International Union. Within two years, I became a chief cook, and since then I've been traveling all over the world. This job gave me a solid source of income, and with that I have made real estate investments, which is an accomplishment that I never dreamed possible before becoming an SIU member.” He concluded, “Every day, U.S. mariners go to work to ensure that Puerto Rico and the U.S. mainland have dependable domestic shipping, supplying our country with goods and supplies that enrich our lives. Being an SIU member means job security, excellent benefits, vacation pay, time off between jobs and a great pension. This is all made possible by our headquarters personnel and executive board members. They work hard creating and maintaining our collective bargaining contracts, ensuring that our families will remain safe and strong in today's modern world. We must continue to support them, because they support us. Today I am proud to say that I am SIU for life.” Delia Peters Sailing out of the Port of Houston, Peters described herself as a “proud graduate of Class 798.” She spoke about her journey to the SIU, as well as her experiences during her career. “I consider myself to be very lucky, and grateful to all the people who I have met along the way,” she said. “I had wonderful mentors in Ms. Edna Torris, Mr. Jeffrey Badua, the galley department here who showed me the importance of taste and presentation. Also, the administration, especially Ms. Priscilla (Labanowski) and Ms. Amber (Johnson).” She also credited the late SIU President Michael Sacco: “I cannot forget my own personal experience with the great Mike Sacco, especially seeing him at Sunday Mass when I was upgrading. He always prioritized his faith. I always felt too shy to speak directly to him, but I would smile and say ‘Peace be with you’ when I was seated behind him. I know he would be proud of what we have become as members of the union. To his family, you are so lucky to have a father like him. He left a legacy that will live on. I have so much respect for his leadership during hard times like Covid and war. To the current union officials, thank you all, most especially to our new president, David Heindel.” Peters said to the apprentices, “Stay focused on your goals and keep upgrading! You can go from steward assistant to chief steward in two years. After you gain experience, show your leadership to be recommended for recertified steward to get priority, preferences and permanent status. The school and the union give us the tools to succeed; your success is in your own hands!” Emanuel Spain Spain is the latest in a long line of family members to ascend the ranks within the SIU: “Have you heard the saying, ‘The family that works together stays together’? That's true with my family. There are five generations, and all are proud members of the SIU. Five generations from grandfathers, uncles, sons and nephews.” He sails from the Port of Norfolk, and began his union career after six years in the Navy and nearly a decade in hospitality. “This school is truly a blessing,” he continued. “I urge everyone to keep upgrading, as hard work pays off. There is no shortcut to success. Don't be afraid to upgrade and move up or go to the next level so that you can help your family faster.” He finished by saying, “To the trainees here, my advice, please do not buy a BMW on your first check. Save up money for your maintenance, try to put it in your pension plan or 401K. The more you sail, the more savings you earn, and when the time comes to retire, you won't worry about your finances.” Cayetano Toledo Sailing from the Port of Piney Point, Toledo began his SIU career in 1995. He thanked the many people who helped him sharpen his skills: “A lot of this could not been possible without the guidance and kindness of the instructors. I would like to express sincere thanks to Chef John Dobson, Chef John Hetmanski, Chef Ed White, Chef RJ and Chef Paul.” He then thanked the most important person in his life: “I would also like to acknowledge my wife, who has been a vital part of this journey. She has always been on my side and always my inspiration to keep going. Now she is also in the same profession and she has a much better understanding and appreciation of this industry and the career that we are fortunate to choose. “Being a part of the union brought me so much joy and prosperity,” he added. “I have been an inspiration to my family, (in particular) my brothers and niece and nephew for them to follow the same path. Our dream goals as a family for a better, fulfilling life have been achieved because of the opportunities that this career brings.” He then offered advice to the trainees, saying, “Be patient! All the sacrifices that you are encountering now are worth it, and make sure you keep upgrading. Stay humble and look out for your brothers and sisters.” SEAFARERS LOG •SEAFARERS OCTOBER 2023 5 LOG • 5 �Credentials Approved for Candidates to Union Offices REPORT OF CREDENTIALS COMMITTEE ON CANDIDATES FOR 2024 ELECTION OF OFFICERS FOR TERM 2025-2028 SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION OF NORTH AMERICA ATLANTIC, GULF, LAKES, AND INLAND WATERS We, the undersigned members of the Credentials Committee, were duly elected at a Special Meeting held at the Port of Piney Point on August 14, 2024. We have examined the credentials of candidates for elective office or job in the Seafarers International Union of North America-Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes, and Inland Waters for the years 2025-2028, in accordance with Article XI, Section 1, and submit the following report. Your Committee qualified or disqualified those members who submitted for office based upon the Union Constitution, particularly those provisions contained in Articles XII and XIII. The applicable constitutional provisions are as follows: ARTICLE XII Qualifications for Officers, Assistant Vice-Presidents, Port Agents, and Other Elective Jobs Section 1. Any member of the Union is eligible to be a candidate for, and hold, any office or the job of Assistant Vice-President, or Port Agent provided: (a) He has at least three (3) years of seatime in an unlicensed capacity aboard an American-flag merchant vessel or vessels. In computing time, time spent in the employ of the Union, its subsidiaries, and its affiliates, or in any employment at the Union's direction, shall count the same as seatime. Union records, Welfare Plan records and/or company records can be used to determine eligibility; and (b) He has been a full book member in continuous good standing in the Union for at least three (3) years immediately prior to his nomination; and (c) He has at least one hundred (100) days of seatime, in an unlicensed capacity, aboard an American-flag vessel or vessels covered by contract with this Union or one hundred (100) days of employment with, or in any office or job of, the Union, its subsidiaries and its affiliates, or in any employment at the Union's direction or a combination of these, between January 1 and the time of nomination in the election year, except if such seatime is wholly aboard such merchant vessels operating solely upon the Great Lakes or, if such seatime is wholly aboard tugboats, towboats or dredges and contractual employment thereon is for fixed days with equal amount of days off, he shall have at least sixty-five (65) days of such seatime instead of the foregoing one hundred (100) days; and (d) He is a citizen of the United States of America; and (e) He is not disqualified by law. He is not receiving a pension from this Union’s Pension Fund, if any, or from a Union-Management Fund, to which Fund this Union is a party or from a company under contract with this Union; unless such individual commenced receiving a pension benefit from any such fund by virtue of having reached the age of 70½. (f) He has not sailed in a licensed capacity aboard an American flag merchant vessel or vessels within twenty-four (24) consecutive months immediately prior to the opening of nominations. Section 2. All candidates for, and holders of, other elective jobs not specified in the preceding sections shall be full book members of the Union. Section 3. All candidates for, and holders of, elective offices and jobs, whether elected or appointed in accordance with this Constitution, shall maintain full book memberships in good standing. at the address of Headquarters. This letter shall be dated and shall contain the following: (a) The name of the candidate. (b) His home address and mailing address. (c) His book number. (d) The title of the office or other job for which he is a candidate, including the name of the Port in the event the position sought is that of Port Agent. (e) Proof of citizenship. (f) Proof of seatime and/or employment as required for candidates. (g) In the event the member is on a vessel, he shall notify the Credentials Committee what vessel he is on. This shall be done also if he ships subsequent to forwarding his credentials. (h) Annexing a certificate in the following form, signed, and dated by the proposed nominee: I HEREBY CERTIFY that during the past thirteen (13) years I have not been convicted of, or served any part of a prison term resulting from a conviction for robbery, bribery, extortion, embezzlement, grand larceny, burglary, arson, violation of narcotics laws, murder, rape, assault with intent to kill, assault which inflicts grievous bodily injury, or violation of Title II or III of the Landrum Griffin Act, or conspiracy to commit such crimes. In addition, I certify that I support the Constitution of the United States of America, its institutions and form of government.” Dated Signature of Member Book No._________ Printed forms of the certificate shall be made available to nominees. Where a nominee cannot truthfully execute such a certificate, but is, in fact, legally eligible for an office or job by reason of the restoration of civil rights originally revoked by such conviction or a favorable determination by the Board of Parole of the United States Department of Justice, he shall, in lieu of the foregoing certificate, furnish a complete signed statement of the facts of his case together with true copies of the documents supporting his statement. Any full book member may nominate any other full book member in which event such full book member so nominated shall comply with the provisions of this Article as they are set forth herein relating to the submission of credentials. By reason of the above self nomination provision the responsibility, if any, for notifying a nominee of his nomination to office shall be that of the nominator. All documents required herein must reach Headquarters no earlier than July 15 and no later than August 15 of the election year. The Secretary-Treasurer is charged with the safekeeping of these letters and shall turn them over to the Credentials Committee upon the latter’s request. In order to ascertain the meaning of the term “member in good standing” which is used in Article XII, Subsection 1(b), the Committee referred to Article XXIV, Section 9 of our Constitution which reads as follows: Section 9. The term “member in good standing” shall mean a member whose monetary obligations to the Union are not in arrears for thirty (30) days or more, or who is not under suspension or expulsion effective in accordance with this Constitution. Unless otherwise expressly indicated, the term “member” shall mean a member in good standing. Your Committee sought guidance from the Union’s General Counsel through the Secretary-Treasurer as to whether this section would apply to a member who is unable to pay dues because of employment aboard an American flag merchant vessel as stated in Article III, Section 3(e). Your Committee was advised that, in keeping with past practice and constitutional interpretation, the same thirty (30) day grace period should be applied in these situations. Accordingly, when a member who is working on foreign articles leaves the vessel, the dues for the applicable quarter must be paid within thirty (30) days from the date of discharge in order to maintain good standing. Your Committee also referred to Article XXIV, Section 13 for the definition of the term “seatime”. This section reads as follows: Section 13. The term “seatime” shall include employment upon any navigable waters, days of employment in a contracted employer unit represented by the Union or time spent in the employ of the Union or one of the Union’s direct affiliates as an elected or appointed representative. We also noted in Article XXIV, Section 14, the meaning of the term "in an unlicensed capacity aboard an American-flag merchant vessel or vessels." This portion of the Constitution reads as follows: Section 14. The term “in an unlicensed capacity aboard an American-flag merchant vessel or vessels” shall include persons employed in an unlicensed or licensed capacity aboard dredges, tugboats, towboats, and similar vessels used to tow, propel, or push barges or other conveyances or assist merchant vessels in docking or undocking, or persons otherwise employed in a contracted employer unit represented by the Union. After full and careful deliberations, the Committee made its decisions and sent appropriate notification to candidates. The ultimate decisions of this Committee are later set forth. In arriving at these ultimate decisions, the Committee was most concerned with carrying out a stated principle of our Union which is that "every qualified member shall have the right to nominate himself for, and, if elected or appointed, to hold office in this Union." In connection with the foregoing, we have also consulted with the Secretary-Treasurer who, under our Constitution, has the obligation to ensure appropriate election procedures as legally required (Article XIII, Section 7). Our Secretary-Treasurer has further consulted with the Union's Counsel as to the law applicable in Union nominations and elections. The following is a complete listing of all members who submitted their credentials to the Committee. Their names and the office or job for which they submitted such credentials are listed in the order in which this Committee feels they should be placed on the general ballot, that is, in alphabetical order under the office or job for which they run, and that the Ports, following the Headquarters offices, beginning with Piney Point, be arranged on the ballot geographically, as has been done in the past. After each member’s name and book number is his/her qualification or disqualification, followed by the reason for that decision. ARTICLE XIII Election for Officers, Assistant Vice-Presidents, and Port Agents Section 1. Nominations. Except as provided in Section 2(b) of this Article, any full book member may submit his name for nomination for any office, or the job of Assistant Vice-President, or Port Agent, by delivering or causing to be delivered in person, to the office of the Secretary-Treasurer at Headquarters, or sending a letter addressed to the Credentials Committee, in care of the Secretary-Treasurer 6 • SEAFARERS LOG SEAFARERS LOG • OCTOBER 2023 6 SEPTEMBER 2024 �Credentials Approved for Candidates to Union Offices PRESIDENT David W. Heindel, H-1443 Qualified Credentials in order EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT Augustin Tellez, T-764 Qualified Credentials in order SECRETARY-TREASURER Michael D. Murphy, M-2483 Qualified Credentials in order Thomas Orzechowski, Jr, O-601 Qualified Credentials in order VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF CONTRACTS AND CONTRACT ENFORCEMENT George Tricker, T-919 Qualified Credentials in order VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF THE ATLANTIC COAST Joseph T. Soresi, S-2658 Qualified Credentials in order VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF THE GULF COAST Dean E. Corgey, C-5727 Qualified Credentials in order VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF THE WEST COAST Nicholas J. Marrone, M-2308 Qualified Credentials in order VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF THE SOUTHERN REGION, GREAT LAKES, AND INLAND WATERS Bryan D. Powell, P-1987 Qualified Credentials in order VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF GOVERNMENT SERVICES AND FISHING INDUSTRIES Joe Vincenzo, V-518 Qualified Credentials in order ASSISTANT VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF CONTRACTS AND CONTRACT ENFORCEMENT Patrick A. Vandegrift, V-488 Qualified Credentials in order ASSISTANT VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF THE ATLANTIC COAST Amancio Crespo, C-2127 Qualified Credentials in order ASSISTANT VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF THE GULF COAST Kris A. Hopkins, H-1658 Qualified Credentials in order ASSISTANT VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF THE WEST COAST Christian Westbrook, W-5787 Qualified Credentials in order ASSISTANT VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF THE SOUTHERN REGION, GREAT LAKES AND INLAND WATERS Michael Russo, R-5772 Qualified Credentials in order ASSISTANT VICE-PRESIDENT IN CHARGE OF GOVERNMENT SERVICES AND FISHING INDUSTRIES Samuel Spain, S-2773 Qualified Credentials in order PINEY POINT PORT AGENT Mark von Siegel, V-612 Qualified Credentials in order NEW JERSEY PORT AGENT Raymond Henderson, H-1907 Qualified Credentials in order PHILADELPHIA PORT AGENT Joseph T. Baselice, B-2795 Qualified Credentials in order BALTIMORE PORT AGENT John Paul Hoskins, H-1630 Qualified Credentials in order HOUSTON PORT AGENT Joe Zavala, Z-5049 Qualified Credentials in order OAKLAND PORT AGENT Kathy Chester, C-1906 Qualified Credentials in order Hazel P. Galbiso, G-1458 Qualified Credentials in order ST. LOUIS PORT AGENT Chad Partridge, P-2057 Qualified Credentials in order DETROIT-ALGONAC PORT AGENT Todd R. Brdak, B-2684 Qualified Credentials in order In compliance with Article XIII, Section 2(b) of our Constitution, and in an attempt to give every nominee every consideration and to try to prevent any disqualifications by this Committee, Cayetano Toledo, of the Credentials Committee, remained at the entrance of the Headquarters building of the Union until midnight of Thursday, August 15, 2024, to receive any credentials that might have been delivered by hand after the closing of business hours by the Union. All credentials received as of August 15, 2024, have been furnished to the Committee in good order. All credentials have been examined in strict accordance with the Constitution. Any defect in the credentials disposed of by the Committee has been the sole responsibility of the sender and no person adversely affected by such defect has denied this to the Committee. Dated: August 16, 2024 MOBILE PORT AGENT Jimmy White, W-1600 Qualified Credentials in order Cayetano Toledo Chairman Marilou Toledo Jessica Valentin Damon Zschoche SIU Exec. VP Among AOTOS Honorees SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez is a recipient of the 2024 Admiral of the Ocean Sea (AOTOS) Award, the United Seamen’s Service (USS) announced in early August. The other AOTOS honorees are TOTE Group President and Chief Executive Officer Tim Nolan, and Fairwater Chief Executive Officer Daniel J. Thorogood. The annual awards dinner is scheduled for Friday, Oct. 25 in New York City. It will include special recognition for ILWU Local 142 and the Hawaii Longshore Division for their response to the catastrophic wildfires that hit Maui in August 2023. U.S. mariners also will be honored for heroism and bravery during the prior calendar year. NEW ORLEANS PORT AGENT George W. Owen, O-695 Qualified Credentials in order “For more than 50 years, USS has presented the AOTOS Award, widely regarded as the most prestigious accolade in the maritime sector, to individuals and organizations that have made exceptional contributions to the advancement of seafarers and the U.S. maritime industry,” the host organization said in a news release. Retired U.S. Army Lt. Gen. Kenneth R. Wykle once again is chairing the committee that oversees the event. He noted, “We are proud to announce our three very deserving AOTOS Award honorees, all of whom have made significant contributions to the maritime industry. As the leader of TOTE, Tim Nolan is playing a critical role in the Jones Act trade with TOTE Maritime Alaska and TOTE Maritime Puerto Rico. For nearly 50 Christian Cruz Mark Kim Cordova years, Augie Tellez has been an active leader with SIU and has been dedicated to protecting the wellbeing of seafarers throughout his entire career. Dan Thorogood is committed to ensuring Fairwater operates at the highest standards and prioritizes safety for seafarers, employees, cargo and the environment. These industry leaders have shown an unwavering commitment to advancing the maritime industry and protecting our seafarers’ best interests.” Proceeds from the AOTOS event benefit USS community services abroad for the U.S. Merchant Marine, seafarers of all nations, and U.S. government and military members overseas. SIU President David Heindel is this year’s dinner chairman. Contracts VP Announces Several Key Developments SIU Vice President Contracts George Tricker had no shortage of newsworthy items to share in his August report to the membership – and they spelled good news for Seafarers. In chronological order, Tricker reported the following developments: - A new, 12-month bridge agreement was reached in late July between the union and its contracted operators who have vessels in the Ready Reserve Force (RRF). Effective July 27, 2024, all FOS and ROS wages and wage-related items were boosted by the same significant amount. This includes an increase in vacation benefits while in ROS status. Additionally, all crew SEPTEMBER 2024 members shall receive FOS wages and benefits when a vessel is in a shipyard/repair facility, including transit to and from the facility. - All SIU jobs will remain intact with current contract terms and conditions as Crowley and SEACOR Holdings jointly announced the successful formation of Fairwater Holdings LLC. Fairwater integrates Crowley’s and SEACOR’s petroleum and chemical transportation vessels, capabilities and personnel to provide Jones Act shipping solutions. The combined fleet consists of 31 vessels, including various types of tankers and articulated tug-barges. In the weeks leading up to the formal announcement in early August, the company had contacted mariners who will be employed by Fairwater to help ensure a smooth transition and to reassure them that their respective collective bargaining agreements will remain unchanged. - The union reached a new, four-year contract with Transoceanic Cable Ship Company, effective July 1, 2024. The pact increases wages and overtime pay, among other gains. - Effective Aug. 3, 2024, Seafarers employed aboard the Overseas Mykonos (OSG Ship Management) received a contractually scheduled four percent increase to all wages and wage-related items. SEAFARERS LOG • OCTOBER 2023 7 SEAFARERS LOG • 7 �SIU Boatmen Rescue 4 Under enormous and abrupt pressure to render aid to fellow boatmen, the SIU crew of the tugboat George M delivered. SIU members aboard the G&H Towing/Bay Houston vessel rescued four people from a collision between the 55-foot towboat Miss Peggy and the 653foot Liberian-flag merchant vessel Yangze 7 in the Houston ship channel on July 19. A fifth crew member aboard the Miss Peggy did not survive the impact of the two vessels. Master Jordan Ward, Mate Stayton Sartor, Mate Trainee Tyler Walker, Chief Engineer Richard Zyvloski, and Wiper Hunter Legge were the SIU members on the George M whose good Samaritan efforts saved the four members of the Miss Peggy crew. SIU Vice President Gulf Coast Dean Corgey stated, “The immediate and efficient response by the SIU crew was nothing short of exemplary. They did a great job under emergency circumstances, and they deserve accolades. I know I speak for our entire organization when I say that we couldn’t be more proud of them.” Dive teams, the Coast Guard, and other authorities conducted a search-and-rescue in the area for roughly 32 hours to find the missing fifth crew member, deckhand Aquarius Lowman. Since the weekend of the incident, his remains have been recovered and the impacted boat has also been raised to the surface. Before the accident occurred, the George M crew had just completed a nearby docking job on a busy but otherwise normal day. The tug was headed away from the port when crew members observed the Yangze 7 closing in on the Miss Peggy as they both moved inbound. Sartor, who was steering at the time, slowed the George M down to observe the situation and witnessed the two vessels colliding. He immediately alerted the rest of the SIU crew so they could redirect their vessel to respond. Walker, who was keeping watch, also saw the two ships passing dangerously closely to each other. “I was up in the wheelhouse observing and I look over and saw that push boat kind of off the bow of that ship,” he recalled. “We were pretty much broadside them, so we couldn't tell with our depth perception if he was exactly in front of them or not, but it looked a little closer than normal. We're used to close-quarters situations all the time on the channel, so you know, you kind of get an eye for it and this one – it just seemed a little closer than normal.” When the crew aboard the Yangze 7 apparently didn’t seem phased by being in such close quarters, Walker breathed a sigh of relief, only to realize that he could no longer see the tug from the other side. Immediately, he alerted Ward that the two ships collided and the crew aboard the George M sprang into action. “The guys acted quickly,” Ward said. “The tug sank; initially three guys hit the water. I ran up to the wheelhouse and took over.” As ships nearby dropped their anchors, the George M crew prepared to assist the Miss Peggy crew. In less than a minute, Sartor turned the tug around and met the sinking boat at the scene, as the other crewmates deployed the man-overboard retrieval system and communicated with local authorities and nearby traffic. The SIU boatmen wore personal protective gear and used life rings to initially bring aboard three collision survivors (none wearing life vests). Because the accident happened during midday with sunny weather conditions, it made the shipwreck survivors easier to locate, even without their vests. A fourth survivor floated to the surface in his life vest, coughing blood and in need of medical attention due to being submerged underwater for an extended period of time. Walker was ready to assist in any way that he could, and commended Ward’s levelheaded approach to handling the rescue. “When we have an incident, there's a list of procedures that the captain has to follow to take care of everything,” Walker said. “I was back on deck checking on the guys and I ran upstairs and try to help Jordan out. He was doing what he could and there was a lot of stuff going on. He was able to communicate clearly with everybody. By the time we got back to the dock, we had firefighters and emergency people already waiting on us.” According to G&H Towing, the rescue “was carried out with the utmost professionalism and the master, Jordan Ward, commended mate Sartor’s radio communication and presence with involved parties and nearby traffic. All crew members were commended on their unified efforts and the deployment and use of emergency equipment and effective response procedures.” The company salutes each boatman for “their The sinking Miss Peggy. speedy and effective response, professionalism, situational awareness, assessment, insight, and for the support, sensitivity, and treatment offered to the victims rescued.” Sartor said, “I’ve been working at G&H for threeand-a-half years now and this is really my first time seeing anything that bad. It was a good thing that we had a good, maneuverable boat, that everyone knew what to do, and that we had that Dacon frame (rescue ladder) to help them get back on board.” Walker noted that after the things had calmed down, the George M crew considered what they would do if something like what they had just seen, happened to their boat. “We started thinking, ‘Okay, what would we do if this boat tipped over?’ I think all the doors on the Miss Peggy were closed, so it didn’t start to sink immediately, but once those guys started opening up those doors to get out, that's when it sunk,” Walker said. “All the watertight doors need to be closed when you're under way in order to maintain reserve buoyancy.” Even though they routinely check every month, the crew made sure to recheck their watertight doors and escape hatches after completing the rescue. Ward couldn’t be prouder of his crew’s efforts in this rescue. “My guys were great,” he said. “In all honesty, those two guys (Walker and Sartor) are pretty young, but they’re superstars. They grew up on boats. We’re all local, we all came up around here, we’re all aware, just to recognize a situation like that and get the boat around as fast as possible to get the guys out of the water…. Anything could have happened. Those guys did a really good job.” Important Notice: Updated Merchant Mariner Credential and MMC-related Documentation E-mail Submission Instructions Editor’s note: The U.S. Coast Guard’s National Maritime Center issued the following notice on Aug. 12. The bulletin is available on the SIU website; printed copies have been posted at the hiring halls. The National Maritime Center (NMC) has established a centralized e-mail inbox for the submission of certain merchant mariner credential (MMC) applications to streamline the MMC application submission process and better manage the receipt and initial processing of incoming MMC applications. Regional exam centers (RECs) will continue to receive and process MMC applications for Local Limited, Restricted, and First Class Pilot MMCs. Please continue to e-mail, mail, or hand- deliver these applications to the local REC responsible for the routes requested. E-mail is the preferred method for submission of these applications. The e-mail and physical address for each of the RECs is available on the NMC’s Regional Exam Centers webpage. Please note that sending First Class Pilot/Local Limited applications directly to the NMC may result in delays in processing your application. The NMC is centralizing the submission of all other MMC applications. The preferred method of application submission is e-mail. If you are applying for anything other than a Local Limited, Restricted, or First Class Pilot credential, please e-mail your ap- plication to MMCApplications@uscg.mil. Processing times at the NMC vary based on e-mail volume. Sending information via e-mail to the incorrect e-mail address or sending the same information to several e-mail addresses not only causes delays in processing for other mariners but will significantly delay the processing of your information. MMC and medical certificate applications and information are processed separately and should not be sent to the same e-mail address. For more detailed guidelines on submitting medical certificate applications and information, visit the NMC’s Medical Certificate webpage. You can help us improve our processing times by sending MMC applications as indicated above AND by adhering to the guidelines below when sending any other information electronically: • Subject lines for MMC related e-mails should include: the mariner’s last name, mariner’s first name, and mariner’s reference number (if available). • Attachments should be in PDF format, named in the following format: Mariner Last Name_Mariner First Name_ Mariner Reference Number (if available). For example: Smith_John_1234567. • Only submit documentation in PDF format attached to the e-mail. Other formats (including links to PDFs) will not be accepted and your application 8 SEAFARERS LOG OCTOBER 2023 8 • SEAFARERS LOG • and/or documentation will not be returned. • Drug test results are part of your MMC application and should NOT be sent with your Medical application (CG 719K or K/E). • E-mail documentation/information in response to an awaiting information letter related to an MMC application to: MMC-Awaiting-Info@uscg.mil. • E-mail general questions and requests for status updates to: IASKNMC@uscg.mil. • Do not send the same documentation and/or information to more than one e-mail address. • Send all required documentation with your application. • Mariners who do not have an active MMC application in process at the NMC or an REC should hold all documentation until they submit their next MMC application. Documents received without an open MMC application are not processed and will not be returned. Be advised that the NMC West Virginia does not accept walk-ins or in-person delivery of applications. RECs do accept in-person delivery of applications with an appointment. Should you have any questions, please contact the NMC Customer Service Center by using the NMC online chat system, by e-mailing IASKNMC@uscg.mil, or by calling 1-888-IASKNMC (427-5662). SEPTEMBER 2024 �Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea “Total Registered” and “Total Shipped” data is cumulative from July 15 - August 14, 2024. “Registered on the Beach” data is as of August 15, 2024. Total Shipped All Groups A B C Registered on Beach All Groups A B C Port Total Registered All Groups A B C Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington 15 1 3 23 3 6 8 41 28 21 2 6 19 9 5 0 8 17 5 18 7 1 5 5 1 7 2 19 24 9 1 1 14 3 1 2 4 8 3 8 1 1 0 4 1 3 0 9 6 3 0 4 9 2 0 1 1 3 1 1 13 1 3 17 2 8 3 24 26 13 3 8 13 6 5 0 6 9 3 24 7 2 3 6 1 6 1 14 23 2 1 1 14 1 0 2 1 6 2 6 0 0 0 2 0 2 0 9 4 6 0 1 8 1 0 0 1 0 1 2 7 1 2 3 1 4 3 14 13 8 0 3 8 1 1 0 2 4 2 11 19 2 1 34 3 7 14 58 37 39 3 8 27 18 1 1 10 29 2 44 7 2 3 14 1 7 1 28 32 11 1 3 16 3 1 2 5 8 0 8 3 1 0 5 1 3 1 9 6 4 0 3 10 3 0 1 0 3 1 5 TOTAL 238 125 50 187 99 37 88 357 153 59 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTAL 3 2 1 7 1 4 5 10 17 16 1 2 10 3 3 1 3 6 3 14 112 1 0 1 5 1 1 1 10 12 4 0 2 7 2 0 3 1 8 0 4 63 2 0 2 1 0 2 1 2 3 0 0 0 8 2 0 0 0 0 0 1 24 4 1 1 1 1 0 0 7 8 3 0 1 2 1 0 1 2 1 0 2 36 5 1 0 15 1 4 5 17 22 15 1 3 13 8 3 2 5 13 4 16 153 0 0 2 6 0 3 3 13 18 7 0 0 9 4 1 2 0 13 0 6 87 1 0 0 2 1 1 2 6 2 0 0 0 12 3 1 0 0 0 0 4 35 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTAL 5 1 1 4 1 3 11 13 18 6 1 2 16 11 2 4 1 6 1 16 123 1 0 1 2 1 2 1 10 12 5 1 2 12 3 0 6 5 5 1 5 75 0 1 3 0 0 2 0 3 3 1 0 0 4 1 0 3 1 2 1 3 28 0 0 1 3 0 1 4 12 15 5 0 1 8 9 3 1 1 7 1 17 89 0 0 2 2 0 1 2 5 9 2 2 0 5 3 0 1 1 3 0 5 43 6 1 0 9 1 4 11 21 33 7 2 3 21 14 1 5 8 11 1 33 192 0 1 0 4 2 4 3 9 18 4 1 4 11 9 1 5 5 7 1 7 96 0 1 2 1 0 2 0 4 4 1 0 0 6 2 0 2 1 0 1 2 29 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington 2 0 0 0 0 1 1 6 1 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 1 14 3 4 3 1 1 3 14 34 19 0 0 9 5 1 0 2 12 1 4 11 0 5 8 1 5 5 21 47 15 1 2 25 14 1 14 1 8 1 5 0 0 0 0 0 2 1 4 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 3 1 2 3 1 2 1 13 25 6 0 0 9 3 0 0 1 6 0 5 2 0 4 3 1 2 2 8 28 5 0 1 17 5 1 6 0 4 1 5 3 1 0 3 1 1 0 3 13 4 0 0 3 2 0 5 0 1 0 2 2 0 0 1 0 0 0 6 1 4 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 0 1 15 3 2 6 0 7 5 30 48 21 0 0 9 8 1 1 2 10 0 13 18 0 2 16 0 10 11 23 81 18 1 2 36 17 0 9 1 4 0 12 TOTAL 16 130 190 10 81 95 42 18 181 261 GRAND TOTAL 489 393 292 374 290 174 209 720 517 384 Trip Reliefs Deck Department Engine Department 3 1 4 1 0 2 4 9 17 9 0 4 9 2 2 2 7 4 0 8 88 4 0 1 3 1 2 3 5 9 3 0 3 5 3 0 0 2 3 0 1 48 2 1 2 0 1 2 1 1 3 1 0 0 4 0 1 0 0 0 1 1 21 Steward Department September & October Membership Meetings Piney Point Algonac Baltimore Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Tuesday: Sept. 3, Monday: Oct. 7 Friday: Sept. 6, Oct. 11 Thursday: Sept. 5, Oct. 10 Thursday: Sept. 19, Oct. 24 Friday: Sept. 13, Oct. 18 Monday: Sept. 9, Tuesday: Oct. 15 Thursday: Sept. 5, Oct. 10 Thursday: Sept. 12, Oct. 17 Mobile New Orleans Jersey City Norfolk Wednesday: Sept. 11, Oct. 16 Tuesday: Sept. 10, Oct. 15 Tuesday: Sept. 3, Oct. 8 Friday: Sept. 6, Oct. 11 Oakland Thursday: Sept. 12, Oct. 17 Philadelphia Wednesday: Sept. 4, Oct. 9 Port Everglades Thursday: Sept. 12, Oct. 17 San Juan Thursday: Sept. 5, Oct. 10 St. Louis Friday: Sept. 13, Oct. 18 Tacoma Friday: Sept. 20, Oct. 25 Wilmington Monday: Sept. 16, Oct. 21 Piney Point and Houston changes due to holiday observances Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. 1 0 1 3 0 2 3 6 12 2 0 0 12 2 0 3 8 1 1 5 62 0 1 2 0 0 1 0 0 3 2 1 0 5 1 0 0 1 2 0 2 21 Entry Department 9 SEAFARERS LOG • OCTOBER 2023 SEPTEMBER 2024 SEAFARERS LOG •SEAFARERS OCTOBER 2023 9 LOG • 9 �At Sea & Ashore with the SIU ABOARD USNS ALGOL – These four photos were taken during the most recent voyage of the Ocean Duchess vessel. Pictured from left in the group photo are Chief Steward Kim Holliman, Recertified Bosun Ritche Acuman, and Chief Cook Keyanna Williams. AB Jeremy Smoot is in the third photo from left. ABOARD ARC INTEGRITY ‒ Pictured from left aboard the TOTE vessel MEMORABLE MOMENT ‒ AB Art Galaura receives his A-seniority book at the Joliet hall. in Baltimore are Chief Cook Marcial Avila Solano, SA Rogelio Sadang, OS Ernest Ross Jr., Bosun Shatina Wright, Engine UA Rickie Abrams, Jr., and Engine UA Troy Lawrence. FULL BOOK IN SAN JUAN – STOS Jose Gonzalez Del Valle (right) receives his B-seniority book in Puerto Rico. He’s pictured with Safety Director Ricky Rivera. SUPPORTING THEIR COMMUNITY ‒ In the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl, Houston-area Seafarers have pitched in with cleanup efforts throughout the area. Pictured during a recent volunteer outreach are (from left) Safety Director Kevin Sykes, Patrolman Kelly Krick, State Senator Molly Cook, Texas AFL-CIO President Rick Levy, Patrolman J.B. Niday, SA Oger Bermudez, Patrolman Kirk Pegan, and Oiler Francisco Martinez. ABOARD OS MYKONOS ‒ Seafarers are pictured aboard the Overseas Ship Mgt. vessel in Hawaii. Standing, from left, are OS/Apprentice Steven Pham, Chief Cook Alondra Polanco, GUDE De’Shawn Jordan, Bosun Juan Ruiz Manaiza, SA Shavonne Freeman, GUDE Salmon Alhobabi, QEP Neil Tupas. Kneeling, also from left, are AB Manuel Delgado and Recertified Steward Juan Vallejo Hernandez. SIDE BY SIDE WITH NAVY PERSONNEL – Recertified Bosun LBJ Tanoa (right in the Seafaring Selfies) reports another successful crane-training session with U.S. Navy personnel aboard the SIU-crewed Cape Intrepid (Ocean Duchess). 10 •SEAFARERS 10 SEAFARERSLOG LOG • OCTOBER 2023 SEAFARERS LOG • OCTOBER 2023 10 SEPTEMBER 2024 �At Sea & Ashore with the SIU WELCOME ASHORE IN SUNSHINE STATE ‒ Recertified Steward George Monseur (left) picks up his first pension check outside the Jacksonville hall; Patrolman Eddie Pittman is at right. Monseur joined the union in 1989 (and, for anyone wondering, that’s his bike). ABOARD GREEN OCEAN ‒ Pictured aboard the Waterman ship in Jacksonville are (above, right) Bosun Nathaniel Guevara and (from left in other photo) SIU Safety Director Adam Bucalo and STOS Travis Houston. Photo credits to SIU Port Agent Ashley Nelson. ABOARD JANET MARIE ‒ Pictured from left during a recent servicing aboard the Sunrise Operations ship are ABs Victor Frazier, Andrei Tretyak and Zaid Said. ABOARD MAERSK DENVER ‒ During his off time, Recertified Bosun James Walker brings in a short-bill spear fish aboard the vessel in early August. REMEMBERING AN SIU BROTHER ‒ Seafarers got together at the Wilmington hall after the July membership meeting to celebrate the life of Patrolman Jesse Sunga Jr., who unexpectedly passed away July 4. Pictured at the hall are Jesse’s family (parents, son, brother, and niece) along with union personnel. (Editor’s note: The August LOG contains an article about Jesse, available both in print and online.) BOOKS GALORE IN JACKSONVILLE – These snapshots were taken during the July and August membership meetings (two photos apiece). In the group photo at bottom left, taking the oath at the hiring hall are (from left) SA Albernisha Jones (B seniority), AB Levon Prophet (A seniority), Chief Cook Ashley Fabor (A) and Chief Cook Greg Eady (A). Eady is also pictured in the top right photo, with his wife, Ervina, who was there for the milestone. Pictured from left in the other large group photo are Oiler Terrex Houston (A), SA Marissa Armstead (B), AB Aungelique Hordge (A), and QMED Eric Jackson (A). Patrolman Eddie Pittman is at the podium. The remaining photo includes Armstead (left) and Safety Director Adam Bucalo. SEPTEMBER 2024 SEAFARERS LOG •SEAFARERS OCTOBER 2023 11 LOG • 11 �At Sea & Ashore with the SIU PROMOTING MARITIME CAREERS – Hitting the recruiting trail recently in Kansas City are (from left) Ryan Covert and Lauren Liles of the SIU, Todd Wright from AMO and Jennifer Umali from MSC. The occasion was the American School Counselor Association Conference. ABOARD PRIDE OF AMERICA ‒ Union members (from left) Jeananne Bowers and Christopher Orr are pictured aboard the only U.S.-flag deep-sea cruise ship. Operated by NCL America, the ship sails to the Hawaiian Islands. CONGRATS IN HOUSTON ‒ AB Jose Castillo Lino (left) receives his full book at the hiring hall. He’s pictured with SIU Patrolman J.B. Niday. WELCOME ADDITION ‒ Chief Cook Ricardo Ramos (left) wanted to share this smile-inducing photo of his wife, Grace Nuñez, and their brand new baby, Camila Sofia Ramos. They’re pictured at the hall in San Juan, Puerto Rico. MILESTONE IN CHARM CITY ‒ Bosun’s Mate/Splicer-Joiner Wende Sadang (left) receives his A-seniority book at the Baltimore hall. He’s pictured with Safety Director Jose Argueta. ABOARD GREEN COVE ‒ Pictured from left aboard the Waterman vessel in Boston are Chief Steward Lenford Royes, Recertified Bosun Joseph French, and SIU Patrolman Osvaldo Ramos. ABOARD GEORGE II – Pictured from left in the group photo are SA Rickey Roberson, Chief Cook Brandy Clemons and Recertified Steward Sedell Mitchell-Reynolds. The remaining photos show some of the menu items from a recent indoor BBQ aboard the Sunrise Operations vessel. Thanks to vessel master Capt. Mark Tuck for submitting the photos, which were taken by his wife, Colleen. 12 •SEAFARERS 12 SEAFARERSLOG LOG • OCTOBER 2023 SEPTEMBER 2024 �Welcome Ashore! DEEP SEA LUVERTIS ALFORD Brother Luvertis Alford, 65, joined the union in 2001 and initially sailed aboard the Midnight Sun. He worked in the deck department and upgraded at the Piney Point school on several occasions. Brother Alford last shipped on the Pacific Collector and makes his home in Spanaway, Washington. PATRICK BUCKLEY Brother Patrick Buckley, 67, started sailing with the SIU in 1979 and first worked with American Barge Lines. He shipped in both the steward and engine departments and upgraded at the Paul Hall Center on multiple occasions. Brother Buckley most recently shipped on the Pacific Tracker. He resides in Milton, Vermont. WILLIAM CHITTICK Brother William Chittick, 62, became a member of the union in 2001 and sailed in the deck department. He was first employed by Penn Maritime and worked in the deck department. Brother Chittick’s final vessel was the Ocean Reliance. He lives in Portland, Maine. ROMEO CRUDA Brother Romeo Cruda, 69, started sailing with the union in 2006, initially shipping on the Pride of America. He sailed in the engine department and upgraded on multiple occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Cruda most recently sailed aboard the Alliance Fairfax and lives in Pearland, Texas. TESFAYE GEBREGZIABHER Brother Tesfaye Gebregziabher, 71, signed on with the SIU in 1993. He first sailed aboard the USNS Bellatrix and worked in the engine department. Brother Gebregziabher upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center. He last shipped on the Maersk Kansas and is a Houston resident. REYNALDO GONZALES Brother Reynaldo Gonzales, 65, joined the Seafarers International Union in 1991 and first sailed aboard the Independence. He upgraded at the Piney Point school on multiple occasions and sailed in the deck department. Brother Gonzales concluded his career aboard the Edward A. Carter Jr. and settled in Middleburg, Florida. We pay tribute to our brothers and sisters of the SIU who have recently retired. THANK YOU for a job well done and we wish you fair winds and following seas. CARLTON GRIFFIN TODD PEDEN Brother Carlton Griffin, 65, signed on with the union in 1978. He first sailed aboard the Santa Maria and worked in the steward department. Brother Griffin upgraded on numerous occasions at the union-affiliated Piney Point school. He last sailed on the Green Point and is a resident of Tucson, Arizona. Brother Todd Peden, 69, became an SIU member in 1977. He was initially employed with CSX lines and worked in the deck department. Brother Peden upgraded on several occasions at the Paul Hall Center and last sailed aboard the Chemical Pioneer. He makes his home in Inverness, Florida. RENE GUITY RANDELL PORTER Brother Rene Guity, 71, began his career with the Seafarers International Union in 1992, initially sailing on the Independence. He worked in the steward department and upgraded at the Paul Hall Center on several occasions. Brother Guity’s final vessel was the Magnolia State. He is a Miami resident. Brother Randell Porter, 51, embarked on his career with the Seafarers in 1992 when he shipped on the USNS Capella. He sailed in the deck department and upgraded at the union-affiliated Piney Point school on numerous occasions. Brother Porter’s final vessel was the Sunshine State. He resides in Jacksonville, Florida. LOUINS JOHNSON ALBERT RIOLLANO Brother Louins Johnson, 67, donned the SIU colors in 1990. He first sailed aboard the OMI Hudson and worked in the steward department. Brother Johnson upgraded often at the Piney Point school. He most recently sailed on the Pennsylvania and lives in Westwego, Louisiana. Brother Albert Riollano, 61, started sailing with the union in 2002, initially shipping on the Dodge Island. He sailed in the engine department and upgraded on multiple occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Riollano concluded his career aboard the Maersk Kinloss and lives in New York City. DERRICK MARTIN FRANCISCO VALLE Brother Derrick Martin, 71, signed on with the SIU in 2010. He sailed in the deck department and upgraded at the Paul Hall Center on numerous occasions. Brother Martin’s first vessel was the National Glory; his last, the Cornhusker State. He calls Norfolk, Virginia, home. Brother Francisco Valle, 62, joined the union in 1990 when he sailed aboard the Independence. He upgraded at the Piney Point school on numerous occasions and worked in the engine department. Brother Valle’s final vessel was the Horizon Spirit. He lives in Richmond, Virginia. INLAND PIOTR MLYMARCZYK Brother Piotr Mlymarczyk, 70, began sailing with the Seafarers in 1970. He sailed in the deck department and first shipped on the Gus W. Darnell. Brother Mlymarczyk upgraded his skills at the Piney Point school on multiple occasions. He most recently sailed on the Matson Tacoma and lives in Burien, Washington. REYNALDO NUQUI Brother Reynaldo Nuqui, 71, joined the union in 2002 and first sailed aboard the Black Eagle. He was a member of the deck department and upgraded at the Paul Hall Center on multiple occasions. Brother Nuqui last shipped on the Maersk Chicago. He resides in Fresh Meadows, New York. MARK BOLDIG Brother Mark Boldig, 68, joined the SIU in 1983. A deck department member, he worked with Association of Maryland Pilots for the duration of his career. Brother Boldig resides in Fayetteville, North Carolina. RONALD JARVIS Brother Ronald Jarvis, 67, embarked on his career with the Seafarers in 2007. He sailed in the deck department and upgraded his skills on multiple occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Jarvis was employed with Penn Maritime for the duration of his career. He lives in Columbia, North Carolina. GREAT LAKES MICHAEL GRAMER RANDOLPH PATTERSON SCOTT KRAJNIAK Brother Michael Gramer, 61, embarked on his career with the SIU in 1981 when he sailed on the Independence. He shipped in the steward department and upgraded at the Paul Hall Center on numerous occasions. Brother Gramer most recently shipped aboard the Pacific Tracker. He lives in Federal Way, Washington. Brother Randolph Patterson, 65, donned the SIU colors in 2000 when he sailed aboard the USNS Pollux. He upgraded on several occasions at the Piney Point school and worked in the engine department. Brother Patterson most recently shipped on the Harry Martin. He resides in Norfolk, Virginia. Brother Scott Krajniak, 57, began sailing with the Seafarers in 1990 and first worked aboard the Nicolet. He upgraded at the Piney Point school on multiple occasions and shipped in the deck department. Brother Krajniak most recently sailed on the Burns Harbor and makes his home in Hawks, Michigan. SEPTEMBER 2024 SEAFARERS LOG SEAFARERS 2023 13 • OCTOBER LOG • 13 �SIU Directory Inquiring Seafarer David Heindel, President Augustin Tellez, Executive Vice President Tom Orzechowski, Secretary-Treasurer George Tricker, Vice President Contracts Dean Corgey, Vice President Gulf Coast Nicholas J. Marrone, Vice President West Coast This month’s question was answered by steward department upgraders at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, located in Piney Point, Maryland. Question: What are some things you like about this school? Joseph T. Soresi, Vice President Atlantic Coast Joe Vincenzo, Vice President Government Services Bryan Powell, Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters HEADQUARTERS 5201 Capital Gateway Drive Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 Lekesha Stevenson Steward/Baker Nichol Corley Chief Cook I like the fact that it’s diverse. Everybody’s cool with each other and we really get along and help each other. I love the fact that they help you out and educate you on a lot of cooking. This is my first time here and I really love it. Lyaunna Bolden Chief Cook Sam Alston Chief Cook The free room and board, and getting time to practice cooking. This is my second time at the school. I got to learn how to cook gravy. The instructors were great and the accommodations were phenomenal. Ruby Jackson Chief Cook Jesus Fernandez Chief Cook I like the educational part. It’s taught me a lot. I’ve been cooking for many years but I’ve learned the right way to do things. The opportunity to upgrade, and how caring the crew is. Everyone wants to see you win; you always get a second chance, and they make it fair for everyone. ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr., Algonac, MI 48001 (810) 794-4988 ANCHORAGE 721 Sesame St., #1C, Anchorage, AK 99503 (907) 561-4988 BALTIMORE 2315 Essex St., Baltimore, MD 21224 (410) 327-4900 GUAM P.O. Box 3328, Hagatna, Guam 96932 Cliffline Office Ctr. Bldg., Suite 103B 422 West O’Brien Dr., Hagatna, Guam 96910 (671) 477-1350 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St., Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 625 N. York St., Houston, TX 77003 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 5100 Belfort Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32256 (904) 281-2622 JERSEY CITY 104 Broadway, Jersey City, NJ 07306 (201) 434-6000 JOLIET 10 East Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432 (815) 723-8002 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605 (251) 478-0916 NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 NORFOLK 115 Third Street, Norfolk, VA 23510 (757) 622-1892 Pic from the Past OAKLAND 1121 7th St., Oakland, CA 94607 (510) 444-2360 PHILADELPHIA 2604 S. 4 St., Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT 45353 St. George’s Avenue, Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 1221 S. Andrews Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 522-7984 SAN JUAN 659 Hill Side St., Summit Hills San Juan, PR 00920 (787) 721-4033 ST. LOUIS/ALTON 4581 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 TACOMA 3411 South Union Ave., Tacoma, WA 98409 (253) 272-7774 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave., Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 OS Edward Blaha (left) and Messman Armando Frissora take a break aboard the Emerson Steamship vessel Cecil N. Bean in 1952. 14 •SEAFARERS 14 SEAFARERSLOG LOG • OCTOBER 2023 SEPTEMBER 2024 �Final Departures DEEP SEA CARL DAVIS Pensioner Carl Davis, 70, passed away May 28. He began his career with the Seafarers International Union in 1991. A deck department member, Brother Davis first shipped on the Constellation. His final vessel was the Maersk Chicago. Brother Davis went on pension in 2018 and lived in League City, Texas. JACK HART Pensioner Jack Hart, 62, died May 13. He became a member of the union in 1981 and initially sailed aboard the Producer. Brother Hart worked in the steward department and last sailed on the Overseas Chinook. He retired in 2021 and was a resident of Jacksonville, Florida. CARTEZ HORTON Brother Cartez Horton, 50, passed away April 21. He signed on with the SIU in 1991 when he sailed on the Anders. Brother Horton sailed in the engine department and last shipped on the Global Sentinel in 2005. He resided in Mobile, Alabama. KONSTANTINOS KATSALIS Pensioner Konstantinos Katsalis, 86, died May 24. He embarked on his career with the SIU in 1969, initially sailing aboard the Seatrain New York. Brother Katsalis worked in the engine department and last shipped on the Nuevo San Juan. He went on pension in 1996 and settled in Athens, Greece. JOSE LOUREIRO Pensioner Jose Loureiro, 67, passed away May 31. He joined the Seafarers in 1991 and was a member of the deck department. Brother Loureiro’s first vessel was the Overseas Alaska; his last, the Alaskan Explorer. A frequent upgrader, he retired in 2022 and made his home in San Diego. ARTHUR MOORE Pensioner Arthur Moore, 80, died May 29. He started sailing with the SIU in 1992. A deck department member, Brother Moore initially shipped on the Producer. He concluded his career aboard the Baldomero Lopez and began collecting his pension in 2011. Brother Moore resided in Mountain Grove, Missouri. SUNDAY NWANKWO Brother Sunday Nwankwo, 64, has passed away. He signed on with the union in 2001 and first worked aboard the Allegiance. A deck department member, Brother Nwankwo most recently shipped on the Evergreen State. He lived in Hawthorne, California. SEPTEMBER 2024 In solemn remembrance, we honor the legacies of these union members who have crossed the final bar. May they rest in peace. MANUEL OLIVEIRA JUAN BONILLA Pensioner Manuel Oliveira, 90, died May 20. He joined the SIU in 1992 and first sailed aboard the Sealift Antarctic. A deck department member, Brother Oliveira concluded his career aboard the Endurance. He retired in 1999 and settled in San Diego. Pensioner Juan Bonilla, 87, has passed away. Brother Bonilla sailed in the deck department. He concluded his career aboard the Mormac Sky and went on pension in 2003. Brother Bonilla lived in Honduras. MICHAEL PSOINOS KERRY BUSH Brother Michael Psoinos, 40, has passed away. He began sailing with the union in 2018 when he worked on the Achievement. Brother Psoinos was a deck department member and most recently sailed aboard the Corsica. He lived in Plant City, Florida. Pensioner Kerry Bush, 83, died April 12. Brother Bush shipped in both the deck and engine departments. He last sailed on the Navigator and began collecting his pension in 2006. Brother Bush resided in Galveston, Texas. EMMANUEL ZEPHYR ANDRES CASTILLO Pensioner Emmanuel Zephyr, 75, died May 13. He signed on with the Seafarers in 2001 and first sailed aboard the USNS Roy M. Wheat. Brother Zephyr was a steward department member and last shipped on the Maersk Memphis. He became a pensioner in 2017 and made his home in Newport, Tennessee. Pensioner Andres Castillo, 93, passed away June 2. Brother Castillo worked in both the deck and engine departments. He became a pensioner in 2007 after sailing on his final vessel, the Yorktown Express. Brother Castillo lived in Galveston, Texas. JEON MING WANG GEORGE COONEY Pensioner Jeon Ming Wang, 97, passed away July 3. He signed on with the Seafarers International Union in 1988. An engine department member, Brother Wang worked aboard the Independence for the duration of his career. He became a pensioner in 1998 and settled in Pearl City, Hawaii. Pensioner George Cooney, 94, passed away January 27. Brother Cooney sailed in the deck department and concluded his career aboard the Brooklyn. He began collecting his pension in 1994 and called Laurel, Montana, home. LUIS GARCIA INLAND WALTER HAWKINS Brother Walter Hawkins, 76, died May 24. He began his career with the Seafarers International Union in 1982. Brother Hawkins was a deck department member. He was employed by JK McCammon for the duration of his career. Brother Hawkins resided in Kingsport, Tennessee. HUBERT JOSEPH Pensioner Hubert Joseph, 68, passed away June 3. He embarked on his SIU career in 2000 and initially sailed on the Ascension. Brother Joseph shipped in the deck department and concluded his career working with Crowley Towing and Transportation. He became a pensioner in 2019 and settled in Santurce, Puerto Rico. GLEN STRICKLAND Pensioner Glen Strickland, 77, died May 27. He started sailing with the union in 1968 when he worked with Hvide Marine. Brother Strickland was a deck department member. He last worked for Western Towing Company and began collecting his pension in 2009. Brother Strickland made his home in Kirbyville, Texas. NMU NED AUSTIN Pensioner Ned Austin, 96, passed away January 28. Brother Austin was a deck department member. He concluded his career aboard the Antiguan Pass and retired in 1989. Brother Austin lived in the Burnsville, North Carolina. Pensioner Luis Garcia, 96, died May 24. A steward department member, he concluded his career aboard the American Hawaii. Brother Garcia retired in 1987 and settled in Virginia Beach, Virginia. PHILLIP HINES Pensioner Phillip Hines, 72, passed away May 5. Brother Hines was a member of the steward department. He concluded his career aboard the Cape Taylor and became a pensioner in 2006. Brother Hines resided in Renton, Washington. VALVART LEAVY Pensioner Valvart Leavy, 91, died May 11. He worked in the deck department. Brother Leavy’s final vessel was the Green Valley. He went on pension in 2000 and made his home in Arverne, New York. FLOYD MCFIELD Pensioner Floyd McField, 93, died March 14. He was a member of the engine department and last sailed on the Kittanning. Brother McField retired in 1996 and was a resident of New Orleans. JAMES NEWELL Pensioner James Newell, 90, passed away May 14. Brother Newell worked in the deck department. He last sailed aboard the Tampa Bay before becoming a pensioner in 1989. Brother Newell made his home in Huntsville, Alabama. SEAFARERS LOG • OCTOBER 2023 15 SEAFARERS LOG • 15 �Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted. Ships’ minutes first are reviewed by the union’s contract department. Those issues requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the union upon receipt of the ships’ minutes. The minutes are then forwarded to the Seafarers LOG for publication. MAERSK KENSINGTON (Maersk Line, Limited), May 12 – Chairman Carlos Gibbons, Secretary Hussain Nagi Ali, Educational Director Ralph Garner, Deck Delegate Dennis Avila, Engine Delegate Keith McIntosh, Steward Delegate Andrea Hargrove. Chairman encouraged everyone to read the Seafarers LOG. He reminded members to visit the union website for valuable information regarding updating documents as well as pension and medical benefits. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members would like to see increases in pension and vacation pay and better Wi-Fi connectivity. Crew requested new TVs, mattresses, blankets, towels and sheets. MAERSK ATLANTA (Maersk Line, Limited), June 16 – Chairman Ferdinand Gongora, Secretary Glenn Williams, Educational Director Austin Blake, Deck Delegate Stephen Belden, Engine Delegate Tracy Mitchell, Steward Delegate Osmar Ramos. Chairman reminded everyone to leave clean rooms for oncoming crew and commended them for a job well done. Secretary thanked members for being good shipmates and asked them to leave dirty linen in laundry room before departing ship. Educational director encouraged members to up- grade at the union-affiliated Piney Point school. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew asked for new sheets, pillows and new drinking glasses. OVERSEAS MYKONOS (Overseas Ship Management), June 17 – Chairman Juan Ruiz Manaiza, Secretary Jason Beckford, Educational Director Neil Tupas, Engine Delegate Salman Alhobabi, Steward Delegate Shavonne Freeman. Educational director advised members to upgrade at the Paul Hall Center and to keep documents up to date. Fishing gear and supplies to be purchased through ship fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew discussed interests in increasing vacation to 20 for 30. Back doors should not be used at night while watch stand is sleeping. AMERICAN PHOENIX (Phoenix Crew Management, LLC), July 1 – Chairman Charles Hill, Secretary Anthony Jacobson, Educational Director Latiffe Brooks, Deck Delegate Yafet Antah, Engine Delegate Michael Lane, Steward Delegate Ma Marilynda Nance. Secretary reminded members to submit MMC and medical certificate applications early. Educational director encouraged crew to take advantage of the upgrading opportunities of- fered at the Piney Point school. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members expressed their gratitude for increased SHBP vision benefit and thanked galley gang for good meals. New microwave has been ordered. Crew motioned to add penalty time to contract for grinding garbage and to align vessel contract with Standard Tanker Agreement rather than the standalone contract. Specifically, crew asked for the contract to include the option to claim cash in lieu of day off, as well as an increase in vacation pay. Next port: Pascagoula, Mississippi. ALASKAN NAVIGATOR (Alaska Tanker Company), July 7– Chairman Adel Ahmed, Secretary Albert Sison, Educational Director Leland Peterson, Deck Delegate Nathaniel Rivera, Steward Delegate Nasr Almusab. Chairman reminded members to renew credentials and medical certificates early. Secretary thanked crew for good housekeeping and reminded everyone to follow sanitary practices during meal service. Educational director reviewed upgrading courses offered at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Maryland, including the one-day revalidation course. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members motioned to change rate of extra meal compensation from $1 to $5 per person and to change the rate from $5 to $10 per day when extra riders are staying on board ship. Relief crew requested an extra set of coveralls. Members would like physicals to be required once per year, increases in vacation to 20 for 30, penalty pay to DEU for cleaning grease traps and SA pay scale to be on par with entry level positions in all other departments. Members motioned to change normal retirement age to 62 and to reduce days of employment to qualify for vacation application. Crew suggested additional courses to be offered at the Piney Point school, including mandatory training on social and emotional intelligence. Next port: Long Beach, California. PATRIOT (TOTE Services), July 8 – Chairman Paulin Augustin, Secretary Bruce Johnson, Deck Delegate Chandler Dixon, Steward Delegate Joseph Yamson. Members discussed various ideas to modify collective bargaining agreement. Educational director encouraged crew to upgrade at the Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested new sheets, pillows, blankets, towels, washcloths and new treadmill. Next port: Baltimore. Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The Constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership’s money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the secretary-treasurer. A yearly finance committee of rank-and-file members, elected by the membership, each year examines the finances of the union and reports fully their findings and recommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District are administered in accordance with the provisions of various trust fund agreements. All these agreements specify that the trustees in charge of these funds shall equally consist of union and management representatives and their alternates. All expenditures and disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval by a majority of the trustees. All trust fund financial records are available at the headquarters of the various trust funds. SHIPPING RIGHTS. A member’s shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively by contracts between the union and the employers. Members should get to know their shipping rights. Copies of these contracts are posted and available in all union halls. If members believe there have been violations of their shipping or seniority rights as contained in the contracts between the union and the employers, they should notify the Seafar- ers Appeals Board by certified mail, return receipt requested. The proper address for this is: George Tricker, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Capital Gateway Drive Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers Appeals Board. CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU contracts are available in all SIU halls. These contracts specify the wages and conditions under which an SIU member works and lives aboard a ship or boat. Members should know their contract rights, as well as their obligations, such as filing for overtime (OT) on the proper sheets and in the proper manner. If, at any time, a member believes that an SIU patrolman or other union official fails to protect their contractual rights properly, he or she should contact the nearest SIU port agent. EDITORIAL POLICY — THE SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful to the union or its collective membership. This established policy has been reaffirmed by membership action at the September 1960 meetings in all constitutional ports. The responsibility for Seafarers LOG policy is vested in an editorial board which consists of the executive board of the union. The executive board may delegate, from among its ranks, one individual to carry out this responsibility. PAYMENT OF MONIES. No monies 16 16 •SEAFARERS SEAFARERSLOG LOG • OCTOBER 2023 are to be paid to anyone in any official capacity in the SIU unless an official union receipt is given for same. Under no circumstances should any member pay any money for any reason unless he is given such receipt. In the event anyone attempts to require any such payment be made without supplying a receipt, or if a member is required to make a payment and is given an official receipt, but feels that he or she should not have been required to make such payment, this should immediately be reported to union headquarters. CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS. Copies of the SIU Constitution are available in all union halls. All members should obtain copies of this constitution so as to familiarize themselves with its contents. Any time a member feels any other member or officer is attempting to deprive him or her of any constitutional right or obligation by any methods, such as dealing with charges, trials, etc., as well as all other details, the member so affected should immediately notify headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU Constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Consequently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION (SPAD). SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and purposes including, but not limited to, furthering the political, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and furthering of the American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect and further his or her economic, political and social interests, and American trade union concepts. NOTIFYING THE UNION — If at any time a member feels that any of the above rights have been violated, or that he or she has been denied the constitutional right of access to union records or information, the member should immediately notify SIU President David Heindel at headquarters by certified mail, return receipt requested. The address is: David Heindel, President Seafarers International Union 5201 Capital Gateway Drive Camp Springs, MD 20746 SEPTEMBER 2024 �Paul Hall Center Upgrading Course Dates Printed below are dates for courses scheduled to take place at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, located in Piney Point, Maryland. The QR code connects to a web page with the latest course dates (they may differ from what’s printed here, though in most cases the only changes are additions that haven’t yet made it into the LOG). Seafarers are welcome to contact the admissions office with questions about upgrading courses: (301) 899-0657, admissions@seafarers.org Title of Course Start Date Date of Completion Title of Course Start Date DECK DEPARTMENT UPGRADING COURSES Able Seafarer - Deck September 23 November 4 Latest Course Dates Date of Completion SAFETY/OPEN UPGRADING COURSES October 11 November 22 Basic Training Revalidation September 23 September 27 October 28 November 18 December 2 December 6 September 23 September 27 October 28 November 18 December 2 December 6 Combined Basic/Adv. FF October 7 October 11 Medical Care Provider September 30 October 4 Government Vessels September 9 September 30 October 7 November 4 December 9 September 13 October 4 October 11 November 8 December 13 MSC Ship Clip September 16 September 27 Tank Ship Familiarization - DL September 30 October 7 October 21 October 4 October 11 October 25 Tank Ship Familiarization - LG September 16 September 23 September 30 September 20 September 27 October 4 ENGINE DEPARTMENT UPGRADING COURSES Junior Engineer September 9 November 1 Pumpman September 16 September 20 RFPEW September 23 October 18 Welding September 23 October 28 October 11 November 15 FOWT September 23 October 18 STEWARD DEPARTMENT UPGRADING COURSES Certified Chief Cook September 23 November 4 October 25 December 6 ServSafe Management September 16 October 28 December 2 September 20 November 1 December 6 Advanced Galley Ops November 18 December 13 Chief Steward October 7 November 1 UPGRADING APPLICATION ____________________________ START DATE __________________ DATE OF COMPLETION ___________________________ ____________________________ __________________ ___________________________ ____________________________ __________________ ___________________________ ____________________________ __________________ ___________________________ If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. ____________________________ __________________ ___________________________ Social Security #_________________________________ Book # ________________________ Seniority_______________________________________ Department ___________________ Home Port _____________________________________________________________________ E-mail ________________________________________________________________________ Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held ____________________________________________ Are you a graduate of the SHLSS/PHC trainee program?  Yes  No If yes, class # and dates attended __________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses?  Yes  No _______________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________ __________________ ___________________________ Name _________________________________________________________________________ Address _______________________________________________________________________ Telephone (Home)______________________________ (Cell) ___________________________ Date of Birth ___________________________________________________________________  Deep Sea Member  Lakes Member  Inland Waters Member With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty-five (125) days seatime for the previous year, MMC, TWIC, front page of your book including your department and seniority and qualifying sea time for the course if it is Coast Guard tested. Must have a valid SHBP clinic through course date. I authorize the Paul Hall Center to release any of the information contained in this application, or any of the supporting documentation that I have or will submit with this application to related organizations, for the purpose of better servicing my needs and helping me to apply for any benefits which might become due to me. SEPTEMBER 2024 COURSE LAST VESSEL: ___________________________________ Rating: _______________________ Date On: _______________________________________ Date Off: _______________________ Signature: ______________________________________________ Date: __________________ NOTE: Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only if you present original receipts and successfully complete the course. If you have any questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. Not all classes are reimbursable. Return completed application to: Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education Admissions Office, Email:upgrading@seafarers.org Mail: 45353 St. George’s Ave., Piney Point, MD 20674 Fax: 301-994-2189. The Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education is a private, non-profit, equal opportunity institution and admits students, who are otherwise qualified, or any race, nationality or sex. The school complies with applicable laws with regard to admission, access or treatment of students in its programs or activities. SEAFARERS LOG •SEAFARERS OCTOBER 2023 LOG • 17 17 �Paul Hall Center Class Photos APPRENTICE WATER SURVIVAL CLASS #910 – Graduated June 21 (above, not all are pictured): Amir Buie, Edward Carbaugh, Lamonica Daniels, Mohamed Diallo, Mario Fletcher, Jock Litzinger, Richard Mejia, James Mihay, James Morris, Tony Noble, Jamison Parris, Travon Pinnekins, Derek Pohlad, Isaiah Riascos, Malachi Riggs, Sangoutit Saliphan, Jonathan Schmitt, William Simpson, JonThomas Stewart, Wolsey Thomas Jr. and Catyria Wilson. ADV. GALLEY OPS – Graduated July 26 (above, in alphabetical order): Gilma David, Jordan Harris, Brian Kluth Jr., Nadine Nomed-Ryf, Ricardo Petilo and Lekesha Stevenson. CHIEF STEWARD – Graduated Aug 2: Brian Kluth Jr. RFPNW – Graduated July 19: Russell Cacho Sabio. CERTIFIED CHIEF COOK – Graduated July 5 (above, not all are pictured): Samone Alston, Lyaunna Bolden, Nichol Corley, Jesus Fernandez, Shawnda Hall, Ruby Jackson, Rosalinda Lorenzo, Diana Perez, Gina Settle, Costadeano Tsantilas and Frederick Wilson. ABLE SEAFARER (DECK) – Graduated July 26 (above, not all are pictured): Christian Alvarado, Jamari Chavis, Ne'shawn Christopher, Abdiel Cintron Crespo, Michael Cruz Diaz, Nailah Cundiff, Austin Gonzalez, Colontae Hargrove, Jordan Jeffries, Denzel Johnson, Lamar Johnson, Samuel Lambert, Jeremiah Mills, Cody Miranda, Valerie O'Reilly, Andrew Pecheux, Brian Ransom Jr., Abdul-Qadir Shahid, Ubaydulwakeel Shambley, Derek Smaw Jr., Hector Torres-Rodriguez, Christian Westcott, Kenneth Wilson and Dylan Wright. 18 18 •SEAFARERS SEAFARERSLOG LOG • OCTOBER 2023 SEPTEMBER 2024 �Paul Hall Center Class Photos FOWT – Graduated August 1 (above, in alphabetical order): Luel Berhanu, Abubakar Bockarie, Jermie Francis, Curtis Gilliard, Dajah Gosha, Izadean Hafid, Sierjohn Jove, Jon Kavanagh, Kamaria LaPread, Jylnn LeCounte, Eduardo Lopez Guity, Mario Martin, Sara Mesa, Amar Ogletree, Josh Rivera, Tre Scott, Donald Slue and Ian Tarwater. Instructor Patrick Coppola is at the front left. GOV'T VESSELS – Graduated July 26 (above, not all are pictured): David Alvarez, Amelia Brown, Norrell Casey, Nichol Corley, Michael Elmore Jr., Shanitta Felton, Andrew Macleod, Christian Mercado Nunez, Reinaldo Rivera Rivera and Kaishona Stimphil. JUNIOR ENGINEER (BASIC ELECTRICITY) – Graduated August 2 (above, not all are pictured): Abdul-Ghaffar Abu-Bakr, Saif Al Tamimi, Rohmy Butler, Maria Escobar, Michael Gaylord, King Haber, Ivan Kondakov, Isacc Lesh, David Seymore, Shawn Smith, Calvin Taylor and Kevin Willis. Instructor Christopher Morgan is at far right. RFPNW – Graduated July 19 (above, not all are pictured): Nathan Angst, Kaleb Brock, Max Cronley, Torin Holly II, Nicholas Howard, Nathan Laverdure, Matthew Lee, Mayson Lyndes, Brandon Mitchell, Adam Nasser, Autum Pough, Ezekiel Smart Jr., Taye Stapleton, Tevin Toliver, Darryl Williams Jr. and Raymond Winter. TANK SHIP FAMILIARIZATION (DL) – Graduated July 5: Dedrick Carpenter Jr., Walter Figueroa, Dennis Freeman Jr., Jasper Hayward, Diamond Jackson, Kenyatta Mabine, Alexis Martinez, Marcos Medina-Vargas, Frederick Rivers III, Simeon Roberts, Andrew Tingle and Emma Wang. RFPEW – Graduated July 26 (above, not all are pictured): Edwin Abueg Jr., Ismael Andriamasy, Jason Binosa, Raenell Brewster, Shawn Byers, Theodore Cash Jr., Paul Green, Gideon Korley, Kevin McCann, Corey Porter, Gabriel Rodriguez III, Braden White and Mario Yancey. SEPTEMBER 2024 SEAFARERS LOG • OCTOBER 2023 19 SEAFARERS LOG • 19 �SEPTEMBER 2024 VOLUME 86, NO. 9 SEAFARERS LOG Hands-On Training a Piney Point Staple for 57 Years Cataloguing all of the changes that have taken place throughout the years at the SIU’s affiliated school in southern Maryland would be quite an undertaking. The Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education (PHC) opened 57 years ago this month – with no formal classrooms. Those were located in a barge at the Piney Point, Maryland, facility. Today, the school is state-of-the-art in every way. It features modern simulators and classrooms, a fully operational training vessel, and other high-tech equipment that’s utilized by apprentices as well as upgraders from all three shipboard departments (deck, engine, and steward). The PHC also boasts a well-equipped marine firefighting school located on a nearby satellite campus. One thing that hasn’t changed during the PHC’s history is its emphasis on practical training. Although the school started small, hands-on instruction has been a prominent part of the mix from day one. That’s still the case today, as practical training is featured in most of the 70-plus U.S. Coast Guard-approved curriculums offered in Piney Point. The photos on this page depict students taking various classes at the PHC in 2024. For more information about the school, visit the SIU website (www.seafarers.org) and/or MyMaritimeCareer.org. � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 2020-present Description An account of the resource Volumes LXXXII of the Seafarers Log and beyond Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource September 2024 Description An account of the resource MAJOR MARITIME BILL IMMINENT BUNKER BARGE SIGNALS NEW WORK FOR SEAFARERS TRUSTEES APPROVE DOUBLING CREDIT FOR COVERED EMPLOYMENT SIU, REST OF LABOR MOVEMENT ENTHUSIASTICALLY SUPPORT HARRIS-WALZ IN WHITE HOUSE RUN GARDEN STATE CREW ASSISTS MIGRANTS NEAR DRY TORTUGAS SIX RECERTIFIED STEWARDS REACH THE MOUNTAINTOP CREDENTIALS APPROVED FOR CANDIDATES TO UNION OFFICES SIU EXEC. VP AMONG AOTOS HONOREES CONTRACTS VP ANNOUNCES SEVERAL KEY DEVELOPMENTS SIU BOATMEN RESCUE 4 IMPORTANT NOTICE: UPDATED MERCHANT MARINER CREDENTIAL AND MMC-RELATED DOCUMENTATION E-MAIL SUBMISSION INSTRUCTIONS HANDS-ON TRAINING A PINEY POINT STAPLE FOR 57 YEARS Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 09/01/2024 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 86, No. 9 2024 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/6a831fe7baaf473ea8ac93cd3f1d8ee3.pdf 1d53ebba49c2a991171e04ce164f545b PDF Text Text SEAFARERS LOG SEPTEMBER 2025 VOLUME 87, NO. 9 OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION — ATLANTIC, GULF, LAKES AND INLAND WATERS, AFL-CIO Reflagged Containership Means New SIU Jobs Seafarers are sailing aboard the newly reflagged CMA CGM Phoenix, which formally joined the U.S. fleet in late July. In the inset photo, SIU President David Heindel (standing fourth from left) meets with SIU crew members aboard the containership before the flag-in ceremony in Charleston, South Carolina. Pictured from left are Joseph Horton, Joshua Mensah, Toinette Williams, President Heindel, (crouching) Alexis Figueroa, Nathaniel Simmons, Fernandez Wilcox, and Raymond Murphy. Page 3. Cable-Laying Vessel Joins SIU Fleet The new cable-laying barge Marmac 306, pictured below, is one of the newest additions to the Seafarers-crewed fleet. The Jones Act-compliant vessel is part of a joint project involving Crowley Wind Services and the energy company Nexans. Page 4. RRF CONTRACTS AWARDED • PAGE 2 // PAUL HALL CENTER CLASS PHOTOS • PAGES 18-19 �President’s Report Cargo is King Congress is in recess as of this mid-August writing, but the SIU and our maritime industry allies are still very active on Capitol Hill, working to advance and protect your interests and those of the U.S. maritime industry. As you may recall, one of our central objectives is to help secure enactment of the SHIPS for America Act, a bipartisan bill that promises to revitalize multiple segments of our industry. We have reported the following fact more than once, but it’s worth repeating: The legislation does focus – in part – on domestic (Jones Act) and international shipbuilding, but it is wide-ranging. There’s more to it than David Heindel boosting vessel construction. With that said, our current work also includes detailed, behind-the-scenes promotion of the U.S. Maritime Security Program, the Jones Act, cargo preference laws and more. These are among the staples that will help ensure there are cargoes available for carriage on however many new vessels enter the U.S.-flag fleet. Depending on how long you’ve worked in the industry, you may have heard this expression once or a hundred times: Cargo is king. Without cargo, we could gain a huge number of vessels, but it wouldn’t matter. You can think of it like the maritime version of the movie “Field of Dreams,” whose script famously included the line, “If you build it, they will come.” I am very confident that if there’s ample cargo for American-flag ships, the SIU will help meet any manpower challenge. Speaking of which, I’m sure many Seafarers have noticed the tremendous progress we’ve made in the past year addressing our segment of what truly is a global maritime manpower shortage. Our all-ports list is the smallest it has been in years, and our affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland, is consistently packed, both with apprentices and with upgraders. Our recruiting efforts are SIU Jobs Secure with RRF Awards SIU members will continue sailing aboard dozens of U.S. Ready Reserve Force (RRF) vessels for the next 10 years, following the recent announcement of new contracts by the U.S. Maritime Administration (MARAD). The agency on July 30 reported that agreements covering 51 vessels had been signed, with a combined value of $6.2 billion. For the SIU, the number of shipboard jobs will largely remain unchanged, though the union did gain around 40 billets when the “Cape Ts” (Taylor, Texas and Trinity) are in full operating status. As noted by MARAD, the RRF “provides strategic sealift support for the rapid deployment of U.S. military forces and equipment during conflicts, crises, and emergencies.” “The Ready Reserve Force supports our military men and women and strengthens our supply chains,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy. “When our military is called to respond, the RRF delivers the tanks, the trucks, and the supplies. These ships don’t just support the mission – they are the linchpin that makes the mission possible. National security depends on strategic sealift, and strategic sealift depends on the RRF.” “Our contracts with seven ship managers will ensure the fleet stays ready, reliable, and responsive,” said Acting Maritime Administrator Sang Yi. “MARAD Seafarers LOG Volume 87 Number 9 paying off, and we won’t let up. By the way, your consistently outstanding work aboard the ships and tugs makes it easier for us to promote the union and the industry. New Tonnage This month’s LOG includes coverage of three new – and very different – types of vessels that now employ Seafarers: a cargo ship, a tugboat, and a cable-laying barge. These gains reflect our membership’s wide-ranging capabilities along with the SIU’s perpetual striving to secure new work. These aren’t isolated occurrences. This year alone, we have welcomed new passenger ferries, an LNG carrier, and a general cargo ship. We anticipate additional flag-ins before the end of the year, too. And, as with our political outreach, we never stop working to facilitate gains in the deep sea, Great Lakes, and inland sectors. Workers’ Labor Day Labor Day will have passed by the time many of you read this column, but the lead-up to this year’s holiday was unique. The SIU planned to join with our sisters and brothers from throughout organized labor at various Labor Day events around the country aimed at underscoring the vital importance of trade unions and workers’ rights. These gatherings and demonstrations marked a high point of a nationwide bus tour titled “It’s Better in a Union – Freedom, Fairness and Security.” As part of the outreach, which began July 9 in the nation’s capital, the AFL-CIO identified the holiday not merely as Labor Day, but as Workers’ Labor Day. A central message of the campaign is that when working people join together and fight for each other, we can win. Although there is no doubt that these are challenging times, toughness defines working people, especially now. We’ve got the most unified labor movement that we’ve had in decades, and working people are hungrier than ever for a union on the job. More than 70 percent of our citizens, including nearly nine in ten people younger than age 30, support unions. From factory floors and deckplates to federal agencies, unions have always stood as the frontline advocates for working families. Through our persistence and unity, we’ll remain a cornerstone of the American workforce. has a tremendous responsibility to maintain the RRF so that during critical military, humanitarian, and natural disaster operations, Americans can rely on these vessels for logistics support.” Vessel turnovers were expected to start around press time. Under terms of the new agreements, the following Seafarers-contracted companies will operate the vessels that are listed: TOTE: Cape Taylor, Cape Texas, Cape Trinity, Pollux, Regulus, Altair, Bellatrix, Pacific Tracker, Pacific Collector, Gordon, Gilliland, Cape Sabel, Cape San Juan, Cape Starr. Patriot Contract Services: Cape Victory, Cape Vincent, Admiral Callahan, Cape Orlando, Cape Henry, Cape Horn, Cape Hudson. Ocean Duchess: Cape Inscription, Cape Intrepid, Cape Isabel, Cape Island, Curtiss, Wright. Intrepid Personnel and Provisioning: Mendonca, Benavidez, Cape Arundel, Cape Cortes. Pacific-Gulf Marine: Cornhusker State, Gopher State, Cape Kennedy, Cape Knox, Keystone State, Gem State. Keystone: Cape Decision, Cape Diamond, Cape Domingo, Cape Douglas, Cape Ducato, Cape Edmont, Cape Race, Cape Ray, Cape Rise, Bob Hope, Brittin, Fisher. Sunrise Vessel Operations: Cape Washington, Cape Wrath. The fleet includes roll-on/roll-off vessels, auxiliary crane ships and aviation maintenance vessels. As further reported by MARAD, “The 10-year contracts cover maintenance, repair, logistics support, activation, operation, deactivation, crewing, and management of RRF vessels, ensuring they are ready to deploy at a moment’s notice…. RRF ships are a key component of the Department of Defense’s strategic sealift capability, transporting unit equipment, combat support gear, and initial resupply during critical surge periods. “These MARAD-owned, contractor-operated vessels are maintained in a high state of readiness and can be activated within five days for worldwide deployment. Ships in priority readiness are staffed in reduced operating status, with maintenance crews of about 10 merchant mariners. Once activated, these crews are supplemented by additional mariners as needed.” Honoring Capt. Johnston September 2025 The SIU online: www.seafarers.org The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 1086-4636) is published monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters, AFLCIO; 5201 Capital Gateway Drive; Camp Springs, MD 20746. Telephone (301) 899-0675. Periodicals postage paid at Southern Maryland 207909998. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Capital Gateway Drive, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Communications Director: Jordan Biscardo Assistant Communications Director: Nick Merrill Assistant Editor: Aja Neal Administrative Support: Jenny Stokes Copyright © 2025 Seafarers International Union, AGLIW. All Rights Reserved. The SIU engaged an environmentally friendly printer for the production of this newspaper. 2 • SEAFARERS LOG The SIU and its affiliated Paul Hall Center earlier this year joined in saluting Capt. Robert Johnston with an honorary union book. Pictured at the presentation in Piney Point, Maryland, are (from left) SIU Secretary-Treasurer Tom Orzechowski, SIU President David Heindel, and Capt. Johnston. Although he retired more than a decade ago as president and CEO of Overseas Shipholding Group, Johnston remains active in the industry, including service as chairman of the American Maritime Association. His maritime career dates to the 1960s; prior to coming ashore in 1976, he served on crude oil tankers and product carriers in positions ranging from third mate to master. SEPTEMBER 2025 �Stars and Stripes Raised aboard Phoenix The vessel formerly sailed under the flag of Singapore, as the APL Phoenix. (Photo by Thorsten Aurin) SIU members are sailing aboard the newly reflagged CMA CGM Phoenix – the largest U.S.-flag commercial containership. SIU President David Heindel and Vice President Contracts George Tricker attended the flag-in ceremony July 24 in Charleston, South Carolina. The vessel, formerly named the APL Phoenix and sailing under the flag of Singapore, is operated by Osprey Ship Management, Inc. “It was a short but meaningful event,” Heindel stated. “We had the chance to meet with most of the unlicensed crew on board, and morale was strong. The vessel is modern, well-kept, and a solid addition to the American-flag fleet.” The CMA CGM Phoenix is the first of several vessels that reportedly are expected to reflag American in the months ahead. During the ceremony, Acting U.S. Maritime Administrator Sang Yi said, “Adding the CMA CGM Phoenix into the U.S.-flagged fleet is a powerful move toward reclaiming America’s maritime strength. This is about more than ships; it’s also about jobs, trade, and economic strength and national security for Americans. By partnering with innovative companies, we’re reinforcing American competitiveness and protecting the future of global commerce.” First launched in 2013, the CMA CGM Phoenix is a Neo-Panamax container ship measuring approximately 1,079 feet long and 151 feet wide, with a gross tonnage of 110,000 GT and a summer deadweight capacity of about 130,000 tons. It has a 9,300 TEU capacity. “We’re proud to be investing in the future of U.S. maritime power,” said Adeline Franger Chouraqui, CEO of CMA CGM America. “This milestone marks a new chapter in our long-term commitment to the United States. By expanding our U.S.-flagged fleet, we will create new jobs, support American exports, and help strengthen the nation’s maritime capabilities for years to come.” According to the company, the vessel will also serve as a training platform for future mariners and “will operate on the CMA CGM INDAMEX Service, connecting the U.S. East Coast with Pakistan, India, and Sri Lanka.” Union officials join company, port and government personnel for the formal reflagging. Among those pictured are (from far right) SIU VP George Tricker, SIU President David Heindel, and American Maritime Officers President Willie Barrere. SEPTEMBER 2025 AB Javulin Pollard (right) greets SIU President David Heindel before the ceremony. Pictured from left aboard the ship are ACU Toinette Williams, Steward/Baker Nathaniel Simmons, SIU Jersey City Port Agent Osvaldo Ramos, Chief Cook Raymond Murphy, and Recertified Bosun Joshua Mensah. SEAFARERS LOG •SEAFARERS OCTOBER 2023 LOG • 3 3 �Cable-Laying Barge Means New Jobs for Seafarers The new barge is crewed by SIU and AMO members. (Photo by John Mansfield) SIU members are sailing aboard the new Crowley barge Marmac 306, a cable-laying vessel that is Jones Act-compliant. The barge is part of a joint endeavor involving Crowley Wind Services and the energy company Nexans. In a joint news release, Crowley and Nexans noted, “Dedicated to supporting the installation of subsea transmission lines necessary for offshore wind energy, telecommunications and other major industrial applications, this collaboration underscores both companies’ commitment to providing solutions for the expansion of U.S. energy sources and other industrial uses that require underwater cabling.” Built in Louisiana, the Marmac 306 is 300 feet long. It is expected to “play a critical role in laying and burying the subsea cables needed to deliver energy from offshore to the grid onshore,” the release continued. “The barge is the first to have vertical injectors along with a dynamic positioning system and a multiple-anchors positioning system, which Labor Groups Seek Tax Relief for Members The SIU has teamed up with 20 other labor organizations in asking United States House and Senate leaders to correct a technical error in the tax code which could cost individual union members thousands of dollars each year. As noted in a joint letter sent in late July to Senators John Thune (R-South Dakota) and Chuck Shumer (DNew York), along with Representatives Mike Johnson (R-Louisiana) and Hakeem Jeffries (D-New York), “As amended by the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, the tax code allows most hourly workers to deduct up to $25,000 of overtime pay from their annual income for tax purposes. That represents as much as $6,000 in tax savings per year for working families…. However, the tax code uses an extremely limited and outdated definition of overtime from the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) – a law that was never intended to be used related to the tax code or the taxable treatment of worker’s time. This definition exempts millions of hourly workers and uses arbitrary formulas that begin overtime at 55 hours of work or more each week.” The letter continued, “Wedging this definition into the tax code has left airline, motorcoach, railroad, trucking, delivery, emergency response, and many other workers out in the cold. The FLSA definition of overtime completely excludes nearly all transportation workers, including airline, rail, trucking, maritime and others based off their employer and job duties.” It is worth noting that the recently passed legislation does not end taxes on all overtime pay. Instead, it allows for a tax deduction that can lower the federal income tax burden on such earnings. Additionally, the deduction only applies to federal income tax. For now, the overtime component of the Big Bill does not help mariners. The SIU and our allies are pushing for new legislation that ensures all hourly workers are eligible for the new financial benefit. 4 • SEAFARERS LOG allow for accurate and efficient cable placement, even in challenging conditions. “The barge boasts a 3,500-ton capacity carousel to lay and bury subsea cable using burial tools such as a vertical injector, a jet sled, or a jetting ROV, with the potential to be upgraded to 7,000 tons with two carousels for bundle cable lay and burial. The barge is positioned to support Equinor’s Empire Wind offshore wind farm for New York and can be configured to lay or repair cable for a multitude of other subsea applications.” “The SIU welcomes this exciting opportunity and looks forward to providing dedicated, welltrained mariners to help ensure the new vessel’s success,” said SIU President David Heindel. “SIU members have sailed aboard cable-laying vessels for decades, so we are more than up to the task. This is a worthwhile project that will boost American shipboard manpower while reinforcing the great importance of the Jones Act, which has protected United States national, economic and homeland security for more than a century.” “AMO is proud to be the leading source for United States Coast Guard licensed officers in the wind farm space,” said American Maritime Officers President Willie Barrere. “Our long-lasting partnership with Crowley, and our new relationship with Nexans, will help to provide clean, affordable and sustainable energy to millions of Americans and will open the door to future offshore projects.” Pascal Radue, an executive with Nexans, stated, “This barge will support our existing fleet of cablelaying vessels … and we are pleased to be working with Crowley on developing the capability to lay nearshore subsea cable in the U.S.” “The cable-lay barge will provide a productive supply chain solution for offshore energy, telecommunications and other sectors,” said Graham Tyson, vice president of operations, Crowley Wind Services. “Coupled with our U.S. maritime fleet and mariners providing feeder services and other logistics and project management capabilities, we could not be better equipped to serve the needs of industries seeking subsea cable solutions.” SIU Mourns Valerie Cole She may not have been an SIU member, but Union Plus Representative Valerie Cole (pictured in 2019 in Piney Point, Maryland) definitely was part of the Seafarers family. “Val” passed away July 28, at age 55, following a number of health challenges. She served as the Union Plus representative for the SIU and for affiliate unions the United Industrial Workers and the Seafarers Entertainment and Allied Trades Union for decades, and repeatedly visited hiring halls throughout the years in order to helpfully promote and explain the Union Plus benefits available to Seafarers and their families. SIU President David Heindel and SIU Union Plus Liaison Kristy Clements (a close friend of Val’s) were among the attendees at her memorial service. SEAFARERS LOG • OCTOBER 2023 4 SEPTEMBER 2025 �Great Lakes Maritime Task Force Honors Rep. McClain The Great Lakes Maritime Task Force (GLMTF) on Aug. 18 recognized Michigan Congresswoman Lisa McClain (R) for her efforts advocating for the Great Lakes Navigation System and those who live and work on or near the Fourth Sea Coast. A ceremony took place in Port Huron, Michigan, with SIU Assistant Vice President Todd Brdak in attendance. McClain received the task force’s Legislator of the Year award. The SIU is a GLMTF affiliate. “It is an incredible honor to be recognized as Legislator of the Year by the Great Lakes Maritime Task Force,” McClain said. “The Great Lakes are not only a vital economic engine for our region, but a national treasure that demands strong, informed policy. I am proud to advance legislation in Congress that strengthens maritime commerce, modernizes our water infrastructure, and protects the longterm sustainability of the Great Lakes. I will always fight to ensure our Michigan ports, waterways, and maritime workers have the support they need to thrive.” John Clemons, president of the GLMTF and national vice president of the Seafarers-affiliated American Maritime Officers, said, “Representative McClain has been a relentless advocate for the Great Lakes Navigation System. Whether she is supporting the new heavy U.S. Coast Guard Great Lakes icebreaker, funding for arguably the most important infrastructure project ever at the Soo Locks, or ensuring our lakes are mapped to the highest modern standards, Representative McClain leads the way for Michigan and the entire Great Lakes.” McClain’s district falls squarely in the crosshairs of annual ice jam flooding that occurs on the St. Clair River. The new heavy Great Lakes icebreaker is a critical tool needed to alleviate those jams to prevent flooding, the task force noted, and McClain U.S. Rep. Lisa McClain (R-Michigan) (fifth from left) and supporters including SIU Asst. VP Todd Brdak (left) at the award ceremony. “has aggressively sought construction funding for the vital asset.” The construction of the new large navigational lock in Sault Ste Marie, Michigan, remains on track for completion in 2030, “thanks in large part to Representative McClain’s tenacious pursuit of U.S. Army Corps of Engineers funding which has kept costs under control and workers on the job. The progress at the Soo Locks has been phenomenal and serves as an ideal example for how a major infrastructure project can be completed when Congress provides bipartisan support,” the GLMTF added. Jim Weakley, president of the Lake Carriers’ Association and vice president of the GLMTF, said, “It is a privilege to be here today to award Representative McClain a well-deserved ‘thank you’ on behalf of the entire U.S. Great Lakes maritime industry. Legislators like Congresswoman McClain get things done and the Great Lakes are fortunate to have such a powerful voice on Capitol Hill moving our region forward.” The Great Lakes Maritime Task Force, with nearly 80 members, is the largest coalition to speak for the Great Lakes Navigation System. Advocating for domestic and international shipping, its members represent labor and management from U.S.-flag vessel operators, shipboard and longshore unions, port authorities, cargo shippers, terminal operators, shipyards, and other Great Lakes interests. The Great Lakes commercial maritime industry supports more than 147,000 American jobs in eight Great Lakes states and generates more than $36 billion in economic activity. New Boat Joins GLT Fleet The SIU helped celebrate Great Lakes Towing’s (GLT) newest boat, the New York, during a July 31 ceremony in Cleveland. Pictured from left at the event are Maritime Partners CFO Stewart Andrade, SIU Port Agent Tyson Little, SIU VP Bryan Powell, GLT President & CEO Joe Starck, GLT VP Gregg Thauvette, SIU Asst. VP Todd Brdak, and Maritime Partners VP Troy Bernier. (Maritime Partners recently acquired GLT’s parent company, The Great Lakes Group, but there is no change to the SIU’s contract with GLT. All SIU jobs with the company remain secure.) (Tug photo, inset, by Bill Kloss) SEPTEMBER 2025 SEAFARERS LOG •SEAFARERS OCTOBER 2023 5 LOG • 5 �In Their Own Words: SIU Women at Sea Editor’s note: This article is the fourth in an occasional series spotlighting female mariners. Our aim is to increase awareness about maritime career opportunities, and to underscore the fact that the U.S. Merchant Marine is a viable path for all people. This installment focuses on Faith Gonse, a chief cook who sails from the port in Norfolk, Virginia. Q: What has your overall experience been like as a female Seafarer? A: It’s been a great experience overall, especially the last few years that I’ve been sailing. Every career has its ups and downs, but for the most part, it’s been really rewarding, and I love being at sea. Q: Since the last time I talked to you (her last LOG feature, which ran in the February 2024 edition, described how she and her son both have made careers for themselves as Seafarers), I think you were in the process of taking a couple of classes to become a chief cook. How is that going? A: I was taking a chief cook class, yes. I’ve been cooking since we spoke and I just came back from training to upgrade for Advanced Galley Ops, which is the first step on the path to becoming a chief steward. Although I mainly sail as a chief cook, I can still pick up a steward job, or steward/ baker job to get that sea time – but right now, I’m just going to do a couple more tours cooking, because I really enjoy cooking. Q: What is a normal day like for you when you’re sailing? A: I’m an early bird so I wake up really early and get myself together, and grab some coffee. Then I go downstairs and I pull whatever I need for the day for each meal. Breakfast is the first meal of the day, and my steward mainly handles that, but we work together as a team and I help him serve breakfast. After that I start preparing things for the next meals of the day. When I’ve got the music playing, I’m in my own world, in my own zone, and I just cook up a storm and enjoy what I do. Q: So you get to do what you love. You get to be at sea. You get to see a lot of new places. A: Absolutely. Q: My next question kind of coincides with that. Do you feel that being a woman at sea offers you any unique opportunities, and if so, what are they? A: As far as offering me any unique opportunities, I feel like we get rewarded with the same opportunities men get. However, sometimes we do have to work a little bit harder just to prove ourselves, because we generally get the misconception that, you know, we don’t pull our weight. We’ve got to work twice as hard and go above and beyond because the last thing we want anybody saying is, ‘Oh, she’s pulling the girl card. She’s making everybody else do her work for her.’ So, we have to do our work with storage; I’m lifting heavy things, I bring it all in and put it all away. If I need your help, I’ll ask you. I put in a little extra effort because that’s how I work anyway, but it needs to be like that on the ships because of that stereotype. Q: So, you are actively working against that to kind of prove them wrong? A: Yes, I want to show them that we (female mariners) can do this. Q: Do you feel like there are any unique challenges that you face as a female seafarer? And then, if so, what are they? And I think that your last answer kind of ties into that. Seafarer Faith Gonse says she enjoys many different aspects of her maritime career. A: You’ve got just a few oldfashioned sailors that have been in the business a long time that aren’t really happy with women in the industry, because in the past, I guess, it has caused some problems, but I wasn’t there for that. I just try to stay focused on my job and keep my nose in my own business, and stay to myself for the most part, but when it comes to doing my job and cooking, I always greet people with a smile, but I still take care of my business. Q: It seems like you don't pay much attention to people that have something negative to say, but you’re all for being a team player with people who don’t act like that. With this series, our goal is to paint a realistic picture of what it’s like to sail, because we want to encourage more women to sail, and that way, hopefully you won’t be such a minority there and it will be more diverse, and so people will be more comfortable. That’s our goal, but we need to hear an accurate experience of what it’s like for women who are sailing right now so we know what we need to improve, and we know what we want to focus on and emphasize what’s going well, and we know what challenges that we still need to work on. Faith Gonse captured these images during various voyages that took her to (from left to right) Australia, Singapore, and Japan. 6 • SEAFARERS LOG SEAFARERS LOG • OCTOBER 2023 6 SEPTEMBER 2025 �A: For the most part, I’ve worked with a great group of people. I’ve met a group of amazing people throughout my journey, and they have taught me a lot. And, you know, I’ve kept in contact with some of them because you can make a lot of good friends and good connections out there, and not just a professional rapport, but you know, on a friendship level. There are other women who I’ve sailed with that I’ve gotten to know, too which has been very empowering. Q: How many women are usually sailing with you when you’re on a ship? What are the numbers like? Is it usually just you or are there maybe a few other women aboard? A: For the current ship that I’m working with now I was the only female on the crew of 17 until another female came aboard. She was awesome and a really hard worker. On the ship prior to that that I was on, which had a larger crew, there were about three or four women aboard. I can’t say too much about that one though, because it was one of the “secret” ships, but it had a lot of sponsors and civilian contractors on it, and probably at least half of them were women. So, we can get anywhere from five women on a ship, up to 15. Q: Oh, that’s a lot. Okay so my next question would be, would you encourage other women to follow in your footsteps as a Seafarer and consider this career? A: This job isn’t for everyone. You gotta have a little bit of thick skin and make good choices when you’re out there, because it is a male-dominated industry. Things happen, but for the most part, I would definitely encourage women to go through the channels to become a Seafarer, because it’s very rewarding. I’m proud to say that I’m a mariner, and I love being out to sea, and I would recommend it. Q: How long have you been doing this, by the way? A: Going on four years. Q: Okay that’s a nice amount of time to get an idea of all the things you could do and see in this line of work. A: Well, I came in a little late in the game, in my upper 40s and as a mother. That’s another thing – when you have children at home as a parent, especially for women and moms, it’s hard to be away from them. My son graduated high school before I actually went out, and then I got him on the ship and into the sailing industry, and then we got to sail together for two years on the one ship. It’s a good industry to work in, and I just wanted to make sure that all the kids were squared away before I took off. “Sailing is amazing…. I like the camaraderie. I like being out to sea, on the ocean. I like the job itself. I love cooking. I love being a part of a union, and I love that we have this wonderful school….” – Faith Gonse Q: I think that’s good, though, that you were able to make that career change later in life. Since your kids are not as young, you don’t have to worry about being away from them as long, because they’re older and more self-directed. Plus, the fact that you sailed with your son and can relate to him through working in the same career is really cool. I think you answered some of this before in the previous questions, but what are some other things that you like about being a Seafarer, if there’s anything that I missed? A: I like the camaraderie. I like being out to sea, on the ocean. I like the job itself. I love cooking. I love being a part of a union, and I love that we have this wonderful school (the Paul Hall Center) that we can go to upgrade and better our careers. Everybody’s been pretty welcoming for that. I just got back from Piney Point recently, actually. Q: Love to hear that. What are some improvements that you think will help encourage more women to consider careers at sea? Recently, I was on an ITF call during Women’s History Month, and they spoke about some of the challenges that women face while they are aboard ships. For example, there might not be enough bathrooms, or the bathroom for women is super far away and they’re on a post on the other side of the ship. Or the PPE doesn’t fit because it’s all tailored to men with bigger hands and feet. Or they might not have sanitary stuff stocked on the boats, because they’re not thinking about that, because there’ll be maybe one or two women. So, in a similar vein, if there are any improvements that you think would help make it more comfortable and manageable for women to be sailing for several months at a time, what do you think they would be? A: Honestly, I can’t. I’ve been comfortable during my four years at sea. I can’t really think of any improvements just tailored for women as a group. I don’t think there’s anything that I would suggest. Q: That’s great! My last question would be, what is one thing that you would like to share with any woman who might be interested or on the fence about starting a career in sailing? A: I’d tell them that you can make your own hours work for you. You can pick your own ship. You can make your own money. You’ll have enough money to own your own home, own your own car, and be completely independent and don’t have to ask anybody for anything. Sailing is amazing. You can travel the world, meet great people, make great money, learn new things, experience new cultures, and eat new foods. It’s amazing. It really is. I wouldn't trade it for anything. Chief Cook Faith Gonse and her son, OMU Christopher Gonse, both have found a home with the SIU. They are pictured at the hiring hall in Virginia, and aboard the USNS Mary Sears (Ocean Shipholdings) SEPTEMBER 2025 SEAFARERS LOG •SEAFARERS OCTOBER 2023 7 LOG • 7 �At Sea & Ashore with the SIU A-BOOKS IN ALGONAC ‒ Two Seafarers recently obtained their respective A-seniority books at the hiring hall. ABM Ali Mohamed is at right in photo above, left, with SIU Asst. VP Todd Brdak, while AB Kassem Saleh is at right in the other photo, with Safety Director Jason Brown. ALOHA-STATE GATHERING ‒ SIU VP West Coast Joe Vincenzo (left) meets with SIU members who are employed by American Marine in Honolulu. With Vincenzo are Seafarers Peter Birschbach, Traviz Eugenio, Sam Kaz, Andrew McDonald, Bryson Oliveira, Brandon Peterson, and Michael Stone. PROMOTING WORKERS’ RIGHTS ‒ The SIU recently took part in two noteworthy union events in Atlanta. In photo above, left, pictured July 23 at the AFL-CIO Southern Regional Convention are (from left) Nadry Martinez from the Puerto Rico Federation of Labor, SIU Asst. VP Amancio Crespo, AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler, and Puerto Rico Federation of Labor President Nelly Ayala. The remaining photo was taken at a subsequent conference: the 25th National Convention of the Labor Council for Latin American Advancement (LCLAA). Pictured from left are Victor Bonilla, VP of the American Federation of Teachers (AFT) and president of AMPR; Evelyn DeJesus, LCLAA national president and AFT executive VP; AFT President Randi Weingarten; SIU Asst. VP Amancio Crespo; Mario Gomez, SIU office manager and LCLAA delegate; and Xochitl Cobarruvias, LCLAA executive VP and USW official. ABOARD GEORGE III ‒ Recertified Bosun Kissinfor Taylor takes a break from a morning aloft on the Sunrise Operations/Pasha vessel. CAPE INTREPID ON THE MOVE ‒ SIU members recently helped relocate the Ocean Duchess-operated Ready Reserve Force vessel from Tacoma, Washington, to Beaumont, Texas. OS Saleh Mukbil, AB Joseph Tier, Recertified Bosun LBJ Tanoa GUDE Adrian Hogan Seafarers gather for a snapshot immediately after a shipboard union meeting. AB Jonathan Tucker AB Tinika Anderson, SA Wilfredo Martinez, Chief Steward Delbra Singleton-Leslie 8 •SEAFARERS 8 SEAFARERSLOG LOG • OCTOBER 2023 GUDE Adrian Hogan, Recertified Bosun LBJ Tanoa, Second Mate Ben Rush SEAFARERS LOG • OCTOBER 2023 8 SEPTEMBER 2025 �At Sea & Ashore with the SIU ABOARD EL COQUI ‒ Pictured from left on the Intrepid vessel are Safety Director Ricky Rivera, Bosun Joseph Dupre, QEE Edwin Velez, and Chief Cook Steven Lopez. ABOARD OVERSEAS ANACORTES ‒ This Seafaring Selfie from the Overseas Ship Management vessel includes SIU Patrolman Jack McElveen IV (left) along with Chief Cook Manes Sainvil, Chief Steward Terrell McMillian, OS Kevin O’Lone, OS Eric Planer, and SA Gionet Dennis. ABOARD GREEN DELTA ‒ These snapshots were taken July 9 when the Waterman vessel was in Tacoma, Washington. Pictured from left in the crew mess are Bosun David McRoy and ABM Benjamin Watson. In the galley (also from left) are SA William Harrison, Steward/Baker Dequan Smith, and Chief Cook Tekeisha Brown. The last photo includes Bosun McRoy and STOS Ruby Jones. ALOHA X2 ‒ During the July membership meeting in Honolulu, Seafarers bid farewell to SIU VP West Coast Nick Marrone on his retirement, and welcomed his successor, longtime official Joe Vincenzo. Pictured from left at the table are Vincenzo, Marrone, SIU VP Hazel Galbiso, and Safety Director Amber Akana. CONGRATS IN GARDEN STATE ‒ AB Jose Gonzalez (left) obtains his A-seniority book at the hiring hall in Jersey City, New Jersey. He’s pictured with SIU Asst. VP Ray Henderson. ABOARD GREEN WAVE ‒ As seen aboard the Waterman ship in mid-July in Tacoma, Washington: Bosun Josesimo Balerite (on gangway); the bosun and AB Paul Calcaterra (in crew mess, displaying their favorite monthly publication); Calcaterra and AB Fredy David (working stores); and Chief Cook Juan Boissett and Steward/Baker Mohamed Nour (in galley). Last but not least, from left in the large group photo: Bosun Josesimo Balerite, AB Louis Holder, AB Fredy David, Chief Cook Juan Boissett, AB Paul Calcaterra, SA Ali Omar, (back, far right) STOS Josiah Tunkey, and (front, far right) Steward/Baker Mohamed Nour. SEPTEMBER 2025 SEAFARERS LOG • SEAFARERS OCTOBER 2023 99 LOG • �At Sea & Ashore with the SIU BOOKS RECEIVED IN LONE STAR STATE ‒ AB Kenny Rodriguez (left in photo above, left, with SIU Patrolman Kirk Pegan) and QMED Evan Murff (right in remaining photo, with SIU Port Agent J.B. Niday) pick up their respective B books at the Houston hiring hall. ABOARD ISLA BELLA ‒ Pictured from left on the TOTE vessel are Recertified Steward Richard Jones, Safety Director Ricky Rivera, ABM Gary Boyd, Chief Cook Yoaquin Gonzalez, QEE Jerome Culbreth, ABM Stanley Bailey, Oiler Landon Clemons, and Recertified Bosun Tavell Love. WELCOME ASHORE IN HAWAII ‒ QMED Michael Bautista (center), who sailed with the SIU for 38 years, picks up his first pension check. He is pictured at the Honolulu hall with SIU VP Hazel Galbiso (left) and Safety Director Amber Akana. TAKING THE OATH IN FLORIDA ‒ Being sworn in at the July membership meeting in Jacksonville, Florida, are (from left) SA Chanta Rattler, OMU William Means Jr., ABB Tanner Page, ABG Deshante Jackson, Oiler Jr Lee Eludo, Oiler Danny Challenger, and Storekeeper Tyrone Brown. Means received his A-seniority book, while the other Seafarers got their respective B books. SIU Port Agent Ashley Nelson is at right. ABOARD LIBERTY PROMISE ‒ These snapshots from the Liberty Maritime ship were taken in the Pacific Northwest. ABM Hamzah Mohamed is pictured next to a pallet jack, while SA Wilfredo Cosme Ayala is shown at a sink. STOS Anthony Crockett is at the gangway in reflective vest. STOS Matthew McLeod (coveralls) is in the remaining pic. ABOARD MATSON ANCHORAGE ‒ Pictured aboard the ship in Tacoma, Washington, are (at the gangway) AB Samuel Moore, (left to right in the crew mess) QMED Erl Jan Encina and SA Javier Wurttele, and (remaining photo) Chief Cook Engracio Moratin. 10• SEAFARERS SEAFARERS LOG LOG • OCTOBER 2023 10 WITH SEAFARERS IN OAKLAND ‒ Taking the union oath during the July membership meeting are (from left) STOS Brandon Bradley, Chief Cook Kyara Nunez, and QEE Rahsaan Alexander. SIU Port Agent Duane Akers is at right. Bradley and Nunez received their respective B-seniority books, while Alexander obtained his A book. SEPTEMBER 2025 �At Sea & Ashore with the SIU SOLIDARITY ON WHEELS ‒ The SIU turned out for one of the first stops on the AFL-CIO’s “It’s Better in a Union: Fighting for Freedom, Fairness and Security” bus tour, July 12 in Norfolk, Virginia. Pictured from left in the larger group photo are SIU Port Agent Mario Torrey, SIU VP Sam Spain, Virginia AFL-CIO President Doris Crouse-Mays, and USW Local 8888 President Charles Spivey. Torrey and Spain also are in the remaining photo, with Virginia Delegate (and longtime workers’ rights advocate) Jeion Ward. PROMOTING MARITIME ‒ On the recruiting trail in Long Island are (from left) SIU Asst. VP Ray Henderson and Patrolman James Bast. ON THE RECRUITING TRAIL ‒ The SIU took part in the American School Counselor Association’s (ASCA) “Navigate and Innovate” conference July 12-15 in Long Beach, California. It’s a major recruiting event for maritime (and other industries); this is the union’s third time attending the conference. Several SIUcontracted companies also participated, as did the Seafarers-affiliated American Maritime Officers and the U.S. Military Sealift Command. Approximately 5,000 school counselors attend each conference. SIU Director of Recruiting Ryan Covert is pictured at the SIU/Paul Hall Center booth, talking to a guest. ABOARD PRIDE OF AMERICA ‒ Pictured aboard the only U.S.- flag deep-sea cruise ship are (from left) union member Anthony Moy, SIU VP Hazel Galbiso, member Michael Passarella, and SIU VP Joe Vincenzo. (Editor’s note: Visit our social media pages for many additional recent photos from the Pride of America.) ABOARD USNS SIMANEK ‒ Sailing aboard the Ocean Ships, Inc. vessel are (from left) SIU hawsepiper Chief Mate Jason Davis, OS Raekwann Lewis, Bosun Jose Argueta, OS Sam Preston, AB Larry Mann, Bosun’s Mate Ibrahim Abubaker, and OS Noel Gay. BOOKS GALORE IN VIRGINIA ‒ Following the August membership meeting in Norfolk, Virginia, taking the oath (large group photo) are Seafarers (starting second from left) Chief Cook Vanessa Osborne-Brumsey, ABG Jeremy Garcia, GUDE Jayson Davis, and Chief Cook Adam Bechtold. SIU VP Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi is at far left. Osborne-Brumsey received her A-seniority book, while the other members obtained their respective full books. Also recently receiving their full books are GVA Trent Harris (right in photo above, right, with SIU Patrolman Josh Rawls) and GUDE Jasmine Porter (right in remaining photo, also with Rawls). SEPTEMBER 2025 SEAFARERS LOG SEAFARERS 2023 11 • OCTOBER LOG • 11 �Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted. Ships’ minutes first are reviewed by the union’s contract department. Those issues requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the union upon receipt of the ships’ minutes. The minutes are then forwarded to the Seafarers LOG for publication. AMERICAN PHOENIX (Phoenix Crew Management), April 27 – Chairman Charles Hill, Secretary Abraham Mills, Educational Director Michael Blue, Deck Delegate Ricardo Guevara, Engine Delegate Arlie Villasor, Steward Delegate Juan Boissett. Chairman discussed union dues. Television on board has been down for two months. Secretary advised crew to get physicals taken care of as soon as possible after sign-off and encouraged them to donate to SPAD (Seafarers Political Activities Donation). Educational director reminded members to upgrade at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, located in Piney Point, Maryland. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Motion made by chairman to align current vessel contract with Standard Tanker Agreement. Members would like to claim cash in lieu of day off and for vacation pay to be increased to 18 for 30 days. ALASKAN NAVIGATOR (Alaska Tanker Company, LLC), June 8 – Chairman Jerome Luckett, Secretary Albert Sison, Educational Director Harry Whitney, Engine Delegate Aljohn Fernandez, Steward Delegate Nasr Almusab. Chairman directed crew to SIU website for information pertaining to shipping and union matters. Secretary reiterated the importance of keeping crew lounge clean and asked members to keep personal belongings out of clean linen room. Educational director advised crew to check school schedules for upgrading courses at the Piney Point school. No beefs or disputed OT reported. SA in need of new refrigera- tor. Crew requested new dining chairs and that basic toiletries be made available in the slop chest. Members would like unlimited Wi-Fi access, 20 for 30 vacation, increased vision benefits, and eligibility to retire with full benefits at age 62 for those with qualifying sea time. Crew suggested increasing SA pay rate to match entry level pay rates in all other departments and for contracts to officially include 30-minute breaks. Next port: Long Beach, California. OVERSEAS SUN COAST (Overseas Ship Management), June 8 – Chairman James Hall, Secretary Dustin Haney, Educational Director Chukwudi Alfred, Steward Delegate Quad Cheatham. Crew reviewed old business including reports from members having trouble scheduling classes. Chairman directed crew to website for any questions regarding benefits, including vacation and retirement. Captain to allow full use of food budget. Secretary thanked everyone for a smooth and stress-free work environment. Educational director urged members to upgrade as soon as possible and to be sure to check sea time requirements when signing up for classes. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew would like 26 for 30 vacation, unlimited WiFi, movies for crew lounge and vented clothes dryers to be installed in crew laundry. Members expressed gratitude for new mattresses, new refrigerator and improved Wi-Fi. OVERSEAS ANACORTES (Overseas Ship Management), June 23 – Chair- man Toribio Valentin, Secretary Terrell McMillian, Educational Director Victor Arzu, Deck Delegate Robert Johnson, Engine Delegate Dennis Morallo, Steward Delegate Manes Sainvil. Chairman reminded members to upgrade at the Paul Hall Center and to request reliefs early. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew laundry in poor condition, with only one washing machine for crew of 15. Wi-Fi needs improvement. Secretary encouraged members to renew documents and to upgrade at the Piney Point school. Crew requested updated washer and dryers. AMERICAN PHOENIX (Phoenix Crew Management), June 29 – Chairman Charles Hill, Secretary Abraham Mills, Educational Director Steve-O Tate, Deck Delegate Reynaldo Bernardez, Engine Delegate Arlie Villasor, Steward Delegate Marlin Carey. Television problem was resolved with new antenna and satellite. Chairman reminded members about quarterly dues increase and the importance of keeping documents up to date. Secretary encouraged crew to vote on proposed contract and to keep mess hall and laundry room clean. Educational director advised crew to attend upgrading courses at the Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. GLOBAL SENTINEL (Transoceanic Cable Ship Company), July 5 – Chairman Lee Hardman, Secretary Jessica Dunney, Educational Director Aleksey Vigovskiy. Chairman went over pay raise sheet. He advised members to handle medical certificates yearly along with physicals. Fourth of July BBQ was celebrated thanks to help from deck department with breakdown and pig roast by engine department. Educational director warned crew against waiting too long to upgrade. Paperwork should be filed as soon as possible. Crew suggested making improvements in common areas to boost morale such as purchasing new furniture and an entertainment console in lounge. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Bosun would like clarification about extra day of vacation for not getting hurt since it was not mentioned in past two contracts. Crew asked for increases in boot allowance and requested fresh fruit upon first few days of arrival at port. Next port: Baltimore. MAERSK ATLANTA (Maersk Line, Limited), July 6 – Chairman Ion Irimia, Secretary Glenn Williams, Deck Delegate Demichael Lewis, Engine Delegate Vernon Humbles, Steward Delegate Leonardo Bagnol. Chairman thanked everyone for a nice trip. Secretary reminded crew to put dirty linen in laundry room before departure and thanked the deck department for their help with cleaning staterooms. Members were directed to see SA for clean linen. Educational director recommended that crew upgrade their skills at the Piney Point school. Crew reviewed ship’s fund and talked about plans to purchase a coffee machine and new refrigerator. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members requested 401k match benefit and increases in pension. Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The Constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership’s money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the secretary-treasurer. A yearly finance committee of rank-and-file members, elected by the membership, each year examines the finances of the union and reports fully their findings and recommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District are administered in accordance with the provisions of various trust fund agreements. All these agreements specify that the trustees in charge of these funds shall equally consist of union and management representatives and their alternates. All expenditures and disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval by a majority of the trustees. All trust fund financial records are available at the headquarters of the various trust funds. SHIPPING RIGHTS. A member’s shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively by contracts between the union and the employers. Members should get to know their shipping rights. Copies of these contracts are posted and available in all union halls. If members believe there have been violations of their shipping or seniority rights as contained in the contracts between the union and the employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified mail, return receipt requested. The proper address for this is: George Tricker, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Capital Gateway Drive Camp Spr ings, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers Appeals Board. CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU contracts are available in all SIU halls. These contracts specify the wages and conditions under which an SIU member works and lives aboard a ship or boat. Members should know their contract rights, as well as their obligations, such as filing for overtime (OT) on the proper sheets and in the proper manner. If, at any time, a member believes that an SIU patrolman or other union official fails to protect their contractual rights properly, he or she should contact the nearest SIU port agent. EDITORIAL POLICY — THE SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful to the union or its collective membership. This established policy has been reaffirmed by membership action at the September 1960 meetings in all constitutional ports. The responsibility for Sea­farers LOG policy is vested in an editorial board which consists of the executive board of the union. The executive board may delegate, from among its ranks, one individual to carry out this responsibility. 12 •SEAFARERS 12 SEAFARERSLOG LOG • OCTOBER 2023 PAYMENT OF MONIES. No monies are to be paid to anyone in any official capacity in the SIU unless an official union receipt is given for same. Under no circumstances should any member pay any money for any reason unless he is given such receipt. In the event anyone attempts to require any such payment be made without supplying a receipt, or if a member is required to make a payment and is given an official receipt, but feels that he or she should not have been required to make such payment, this should immediately be reported to union headquarters. CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS. Copies of the SIU Constitution are available in all union halls. All members should obtain copies of this constitution so as to familiarize themselves with its contents. Any time a member feels any other member or officer is attempting to deprive him or her of any constitutional right or obligation by any methods, such as dealing with charges, trials, etc., as well as all other details, the member so affected should immediately notify headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU Constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Conse­ quently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION (SPAD). SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and purposes including, but not limited to, furthering the political, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and furthering of the American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect and further his or her economic, political and social interests, and American trade union concepts. NOTIFYING THE UNION — If at any time a member feels that any of the above rights have been violated, or that he or she has been denied the constitutional right of access to union records or information, the member should immediately notify SIU President David Heindel at headquarters by certified mail, return receipt requested. The address is: David Heindel, President Seafarers International Union 5201 Capital Gateway Drive Camp Springs, MD 20746 SEPTEMBER 2025 �Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea “Total Registered” and “Total Shipped” data is cumulative from July 14 - August 14, 2025. “Registered on the Beach” data is as of August 15, 2025. Port Total Shipped All Groups A B C Total Registered All Groups A B C Trip Reliefs Registered on Beach All Groups A B C Deck Department Algonac 24 Anchorage 4 Baltimore 3 Fort Lauderdale 21 Guam 3 Harvey 6 Honolulu 2 Houston 28 Jacksonville 34 Jersey City 18 Joliet 1 Mobile 5 Norfolk 16 Oakland 8 Philadelphia 4 Piney Point 2 Puerto Rico 5 St. Louis 3 Tacoma 17 Wilmington 24 12 1 1 11 3 2 2 16 32 9 3 3 20 3 1 2 4 4 5 7 2 1 4 4 2 8 0 13 17 2 1 6 11 1 2 0 2 1 4 3 16 3 2 14 2 10 7 30 34 12 2 5 12 4 2 1 6 1 14 19 10 2 0 10 2 2 3 19 27 6 2 5 9 3 1 2 4 0 3 9 2 0 3 3 0 2 1 6 13 2 0 3 9 1 1 0 2 0 1 3 7 2 3 7 1 3 0 17 20 7 0 2 14 2 3 2 2 1 3 10 26 2 3 30 4 7 2 45 41 35 1 9 23 12 4 2 11 3 24 43 9 3 3 13 3 5 2 24 28 9 2 3 24 5 0 3 4 3 7 14 1 3 2 11 2 8 1 13 17 4 2 6 9 3 2 0 0 0 6 2 TOTAL 228 141 84 196 119 52 106 327 164 92 Algonac 4 Anchorage 3 Baltimore 4 Fort Lauderdale 5 Guam 4 Harvey 4 Honolulu 3 Houston 6 Jacksonville 22 Jersey City 8 Joliet 1 Mobile 1 Norfolk 13 Oakland 3 Philadelphia 1 Piney Point 0 Puerto Rico 2 St. Louis 0 Tacoma 11 Wilmington 11 TOTAL 106 4 0 2 11 0 4 1 7 19 7 1 0 18 4 2 4 1 1 7 13 106 1 0 0 0 0 1 2 5 4 2 0 0 5 3 1 0 1 0 0 1 26 2 0 2 3 0 0 1 6 10 4 0 2 13 3 0 0 1 0 3 6 56 6 2 2 14 1 5 6 8 28 12 3 4 9 2 2 3 6 0 16 18 147 2 0 1 10 0 2 3 7 23 8 1 2 20 6 2 2 3 3 3 6 104 3 0 2 1 0 2 3 13 12 0 0 0 5 3 1 0 1 0 1 3 50 Algonac 6 Anchorage 0 Baltimore 0 Fort Lauderdale 8 Guam 2 Harvey 5 Honolulu 7 Houston 11 Jacksonville 22 Jersey City 8 Joliet 2 Mobile 0 Norfolk 10 Oakland 9 Philadelphia 3 Piney Point 4 Puerto Rico 6 St. Louis 0 Tacoma 7 Wilmington 19 TOTAL 129 2 1 0 3 1 3 2 12 17 4 2 1 17 5 1 1 6 0 3 7 88 1 0 0 2 0 0 0 3 7 0 0 0 4 1 1 1 1 0 1 1 23 2 0 0 6 1 2 4 16 19 2 1 1 9 9 4 1 4 1 3 18 103 0 1 1 3 1 0 3 8 13 2 0 0 8 6 4 2 2 0 3 11 68 7 0 0 10 2 4 10 14 34 12 1 2 17 15 3 6 7 2 13 27 186 2 3 2 4 2 4 2 15 34 9 2 2 21 6 0 0 7 1 5 8 129 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 5 8 0 0 0 7 1 2 1 0 0 1 1 28 Algonac 0 Anchorage 0 Baltimore 0 Fort Lauderdale 1 Guam 0 Harvey 1 Honolulu 0 Houston 5 Jacksonville 1 Jersey City 0 Joliet 0 Mobile 0 Norfolk 1 Oakland 0 Philadelphia 0 Piney Point 0 Puerto Rico 0 St. Louis 0 Tacoma 2 Wilmington 0 5 0 4 6 1 2 2 10 28 13 2 0 9 6 2 2 1 0 6 11 19 3 3 9 3 4 2 16 46 19 0 1 38 14 2 6 1 0 6 23 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 1 0 3 0 1 4 0 3 1 10 37 8 2 2 8 7 2 2 0 0 4 9 2 0 1 7 0 2 1 4 14 12 2 2 18 3 1 1 1 0 4 12 0 0 0 3 0 0 0 2 3 4 3 0 4 4 0 3 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 0 1 0 6 1 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 3 0 8 1 2 7 2 1 4 18 42 18 0 0 14 10 1 1 1 0 7 12 26 4 2 14 3 6 7 25 89 23 1 0 66 26 4 3 2 0 8 39 TOTAL 11 110 215 6 103 87 28 14 149 348 GRAND TOTAL 474 445 348 409 358 180 258 674 546 518 Engine Department 2 1 4 3 3 1 4 10 19 10 1 4 18 4 0 1 3 0 5 11 104 3 0 1 4 0 2 4 7 15 3 0 0 10 1 0 2 2 0 5 10 69 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 3 6 2 0 0 5 4 0 0 0 0 0 3 25 Steward Department September & October Membership Meetings Piney Point Algonac Monday: Sept. 8, Oct. 6 Thursday: Sept. 18, Oct. 16 Baltimore Thursday: Sept. 11, Oct. 9 Guam Thursday: Sept. 25, Oct. 23 Honolulu Friday: Sept. 19, Oct. 17 Houston Monday: Sept. 15, Tuesday: Oct. 14 Jacksonville Thursday: Sept. 11, Oct. 9 Joliet Thursday: Sept. 18, Oct. 16 Mobile Wednesday: Sept. 17, Oct. 15 New Orleans Tuesday: Sept. 16, Oct. 14 Jersey City Tuesday: Sept. 9, Oct. 7 Norfolk Friday: Sept. 12, Oct. 10 Oakland Thursday: Sept. 18, Oct. 16 Philadelphia Wednesday: Sept. 10, Oct. 8 Port Everglades Thursday: Sept. 18, Oct. 16 San Juan Thursday: Sept. 11, Oct. 9 St. Louis Friday: Sept. 19, Oct. 17 Tacoma Friday: Sept. 26, Oct. 24 Wilmington Monday: Sept. 22, Oct. 20 Meeting date change due to holiday Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. SEPTEMBER 2025 0 1 1 1 1 1 0 6 16 4 0 1 11 5 1 3 8 0 3 4 67 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 3 0 1 0 4 1 0 0 1 0 0 4 16 Entry Department SEAFARERS LOG • SEAFARERS OCTOBER 2023 LOG •13 13 �SIU Directory David Heindel, President Augustin Tellez, Executive Vice President Tom Orzechowski, Secretary-Treasurer Inquiring Seafarer George Tricker, Vice President Contracts Dean Corgey, Vice President Gulf Coast Joe Vincenzo, Vice President West Coast Joseph T. Soresi, Vice President Atlantic Coast Sam Spain, Vice President Government Services Bryan Powell, Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Pat Vandegrift, Vice President Hazel Galbiso, Vice President HEADQUARTERS 5201 Capital Gateway Drive Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr., Algonac, MI 48001 (810) 794-4988 ANCHORAGE 721 Sesame St., #1C, Anchorage, AK 99503 (907) 561-4988 BALTIMORE 2315 Essex St., Baltimore, MD 21224 (410) 327-4900 GUAM P.O. Box 3328, Hagatna, Guam 96932 Cliffline Office Ctr. Bldg., Suite 103B 422 West O’Brien Dr., Hagatna, Guam 96910 (671) 477-1350 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St., Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 625 N. York St., Houston, TX 77003 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 5100 Belfort Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32256 (904) 281-2622 JERSEY CITY 104 Broadway, Jersey City, NJ 07306 (201) 434-6000 JOLIET 10 East Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432 (815) 723-8002 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605 (251) 478-0916 This month’s question was answered by members of the most recent steward recertification class. Question: Why did you join the SIU, and why have you stuck with it? Raul Napoles Recertified Steward Roberto Coronado Recertified Steward I used to work in a restaurant, but I saw a cruise ship in 1998 or 1999 and applied to be a cook aboard the ship. I’ve been here for 25 years because the SIU provides great benefits, education, and opportunities. Working here was an opportunity for me to get a better job and make more money. I was even able to get surgery for my heart with the medical benefits that SIU provides. Before I joined the SIU, I worked on foreign cruise ships, but the SIU offered more opportunities to gain experience in my career and make more money to support my family and travel. This job helps me continue to grow in my passion for cooking and most importantly gives me an opportunity to help my family, especially my kids, earn their education so they will be able to sustain their financial freedom, live comfortably and travel, too. Dylan Faile Recertified Steward Aurelio Esperanza Recertified Steward I cut my teeth in the oil field and then I was working for the SBX project and wanted to join them, and I joined the union to do that. I’ve stuck around because everything is constantly changing (in a good way). I can’t even tell you how many countries I’ve been to, but I have been to five continents. I love traveling and meeting new people and having new experiences. The more people you work with, the more things you learn. I joined the SIU because I knew it would put me on the right track for a successful future. Where else can you go to find the kind of quality training that is offered at the Paul Hall Center? The SIU looks out for you and makes sure you have a job. Work hard and you will be successful. George Egbert Recertified Steward Matthew Conyac Recertified Steward I joined the SIU to secure a good life for me and my family. I’ve gained experience and skills through the SIU that I can apply to everyday life, and I make good money. You don’t have to be a doctor or lawyer to make good money. After working various jobs, I was looking for a career change. The SIU offers many benefits including advancement opportunities and training that is hard to find. I’ve stayed because of the vacation time. NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 NORFOLK 115 Third Street, Norfolk, VA 23510 (757) 622-1892 Pic from the Past OAKLAND 1121 7th St., Oakland, CA 94607 (510) 444-2360 PHILADELPHIA 2800 S. 20th Street, Building 12B, Suite A Philadelphia, PA 19145 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT 45353 St. George’s Avenue, Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 1221 S. Andrews Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 522-7984 SAN JUAN 659 Hill Side St., Summit Hills San Juan, PR 00920 (787) 721-4033 ST. LOUIS/ALTON 4581 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 TACOMA 3411 South Union Ave., Tacoma, WA 98409 (253) 272-7774 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave., Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 14 • SEAFARERS LOG Bosun Basilio Maldonedo works aboard the tanker Ogden Wabash (OMI Corp.) in 1982. SEAFARERS LOG • OCTOBER 2023 2025 14 SEPTEMBER �Welcome Ashore! DEEP SEA PAUL AMATO Brother Paul Amato, 74, joined the union in 2004, initially sailing aboard the USNS Capella. He worked in the deck department and upgraded at the Paul Hall Center on multiple occasions. Brother Amato most recently shipped on the Liberty and makes his home in Jacksonville, Florida. ALBA AYALA Sister Alba Ayala, 66, started sailing with the SIU in 2000 and first worked on the Prudhoe Bay. She shipped in the steward department and upgraded at the Piney Point school on multiple occasions. Sister Ayala last sailed on the Maersk Denver. She resides in Kent, Washington. ALBERT BHARRAT Brother Albert Bharrat, 71, signed on with the SIU in 2002. He first sailed with Penn Maritime and worked in the deck department. Brother Bharrat upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center. He last sailed on the Overseas Key West and is a resident of Hope Mills, North Carolina. LEANDRO CACHO Brother Leandro Cacho, 67, embarked on his career with the SIU in 1992 when he sailed on the Independence. He shipped in both the deck and engine departments and upgraded at the Paul Hall Center on multiple occasions. Brother Cacho concluded his career aboard the Maersk Chicago and lives in Midway, Florida. DOMINGO CAZON Brother Domingo Cazon, 67, signed on with the union in 2001. He initially sailed aboard the Kenai and worked in the deck department. Brother Cazon upgraded at the union-affiliated Piney Point School on multiple occasions. He most recently shipped on the California and is a Las Vegas resident. JOHN DENTON Brother John Denton, 71, started sailing with the SIU in 1978. He first shipped on the Overseas Alaska and sailed in the deck department. Brother Denton’s final vessel was the Long Lines. He makes his home in Marrero, Louisiana. CARLOS ECLEVIA Brother Carlos Eclevia, 65, joined the Seafarers International Union in 2001. A deck department member, he first sailed aboard the Maersk Arizona. Brother Eclevia upgraded at the Paul Hall Center on several occasions and most recently shipped on the Cape Edmont. He is a resident of Ladson, South Carolina. SEPTEMBER 2025 We pay tribute to our brothers and sisters of the SIU who have recently retired. THANK YOU for a job well done and we wish you fair winds and following seas. ROBERT HALL PRENTISS SMITH Brother Robert Hall, 71, began sailing with the Seafarers in 2005 and first worked aboard the Louis J. Hauge Jr. He upgraded on multiple occasions at the Piney Point school and shipped in both the deck and engine departments. Brother Hall last sailed on the SBX and makes his home in Hood River, Oregon. Brother Prentiss Smith, 65, began his SIU career in 1980 when he sailed on the USNS Potomac. He shipped in the engine department and upgraded at the Paul Hall Center on multiple occasions. Brother Smith’s final vessel was the Keystone State. He resides in Sacramento, California. LEO VENEGAS Brother Leo Venegas, 55, signed on with the SIU in 2001. A deck department member, he first sailed aboard the Sea Reliance. Brother Venegas upgraded often at the Piney Point school. He last shipped on the Pacific Reliance and settled in Kane, Pennsylvania. RICK JAMES Brother Rick James, 59, signed on with the Seafarers in 1991. He sailed in the deck department and first shipped on the Cape Canaveral. Brother James upgraded his skills at the Piney Point school on numerous occasions. He most recently sailed on the Cape Washington and lives in Green Cove Spring, Florida. ERIC VONZELL Brother Eric Vonzell, 65, began sailing with the Seafarers in 1988. A deck department member, he first worked with Asian Tug & Salvage. Brother Vonzell concluded his career aboard the Bernard F. Fisher and settled in Zion, Illinois. CLAUDIA KAMMEYER HALE Sister Claudia Kammeyer Hale, 72, joined the union in 1992 and first sailed aboard the Independence. She was a member of the steward department and upgraded at the Paul Hall Center on multiple occasions. Sister Kammeyer Hale last shipped on the USNS Charlton. She resides in Port Haywood, Virginia. STEPHEN VOTTA Brother Stephen Votta, 68, joined the Seafarers International Union in 1983. He initially worked aboard the Independence and sailed in the deck department. Brother Votta upgraded often at the Piney Point school. He last shipped on the Liberty Island and makes his home in Lighthouse Point, Florida. VLADIMIR LOUTAEV Brother Vladimir Loutaev, 77, became an SIU member in 2006. He was an engine department member and upgraded on multiple occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Loutaev’s first vessel was the Pride of America; his last, the Ocean Giant. He makes his home in Granada Hills, California. INLAND TIMOTHY BLACK ORLANDO PIZARRO Brother Orlando Pizarro, 71, embarked on his career with the Seafarers in 1989 when he shipped on the President Kennedy. He sailed in the steward department and upgraded at the union-affiliated Piney Point school on multiple occasions. Brother Pizarro’s final vessel was the President Jackson. He resides in Lomita, California. GERALD RAY Brother Gerald Ray, 67, started sailing with the union in 1977, initially shipping on the Long Lines. He sailed in the deck department and upgraded his skills at the Paul Hall Center on multiple occasions. Brother Ray concluded his career aboard the Alliance St. Louis. He lives in Indialantic, Florida. Brother Timothy Black, 65, signed on with the SIU in 1979 when he shipped on the Hugh Gordon. He sailed in the deck department and concluded his career with Crowley Towing and Transportation. Brother Black lives in Moreno Valley, California. JOHN D’ALESSANDRO Brother John D’Alessandro, 65, became a member of the Seafarers in 1991. He shipped in the engine department and upgraded at the Piney Point school on multiple occasions. Brother D’Alessandro first sailed on the Gus W Darnell. He concluded his career aboard the Legend and settled in Magnolia, Texas. NMU BILLY MCLAUGHLIN MATTHEW SAGAY Brother Matthew Sagay, 71, joined the union in 2001. A deck department member, he first sailed aboard the Overseas Marilyn. Brother Sagay upgraded the Piney Point school on several occasions. He most recently shipped on the Alliance Norfolk and makes his home in Houston. Brother Billy McLaughlin, 70, began sailing in 1979. He shipped in the engine department and upgraded his skills at the Paul Hall Center on multiple occasions. Brother McLaughlin was the last director of education before the 2001 NMU/SIU merger and also worked as safety director of both the Port of New York and New Jersey. He last sailed aboard the Cape Domingo and makes his home in Quincy, Massachusetts. SEAFARERS LOG • OCTOBER 2023 15 SEAFARERS LOG • 15 �Final Departures DEEP SEA MARION COLLINS Brother Marion Collins, 48, died June 12. He began his career with the Seafarers in 1999, initially sailing aboard the Richard G. Matthiesen. Brother Collins worked in the engine department. He most recently sailed on the Brenton Reef and lived in Canton, Mississippi. LEONTE CORDOVA Pensioner Leonte Cordova, 88, passed away July 27. He joined the union in 1980 and first shipped on the Houston. Brother Cordova worked in the deck department. He last sailed aboard the Robert E. Lee and became a pensioner in 2002. Brother Cordova made his home in Terrytown, Louisiana. P EVALD FAHLE Pensioner P Evald Fahle, 79, died April 26. He signed on with the SIU in 1966 when he shipped on the Saphire Sandy. Brother Fahle worked in the engine department and last sailed aboard the Consumer. He started collecting his pension in 2011 and settled in Newbury, Vermont. HECTOR FREDERICK Pensioner Hector Frederick, 80, passed away June 27. He joined the SIU in 1986 and first sailed aboard the Sugar Islander. Brother Frederick worked in the engine department and last sailed on the Overseas Luxmar. He went on pension in 2010 and made his home in Houston. ROMERO JOMOC Pensioner Romero Jomoc, 70, died January 30. He became a member of the Seafarers International Union in 2004 when he shipped on the Paul Buck. Brother Jomoc was a deck department member. He last sailed aboard the Intrepid and became a pensioner in 2019. Brother Jomoc was a San Francisco resident. VINCENT KIRKSEY Pensioner Vincent Kirksey, 69, passed away June 16. Brother Kirksey signed on with the union in 1976 when he shipped on the Yukon. He worked in the engine department and last shipped aboard the Ocean Grand before retiring in 2018. Brother Kirksey lived in Eight Mile, Alabama. PATRICK LEGRAS Pensioner Patrick Legras, 72, died July 21. He began his career with the Seafarers International Union in 1981, initially sailing aboard the Independence. A steward department member, he last shipped on the Patriot in 2001. Brother Legras began collecting his pension in 2023 and was a resident of Spanaway, Washington. 16 • SEAFARERS LOG In solemn remembrance, we honor the legacies of these union members who have crossed the final bar. May they rest in peace. THOMAS LONG MICHELLE WATERS Pensioner Thomas Long, 81, passed away June 30. He donned the SIU colors in 1961. An engine department member, Brother Long was first employed by Metro Petroleum. He last sailed aboard the OMI Champion in 1983. Brother Long became a pensioner in 2009 and made his home in Mobile, Alabama. Pensioner Michelle Waters, 65, died June 17. She signed on with the Seafarers in 1983. A steward department member, she first shipped on the Independence. Sister Waters last sailed on the Cape Gibson in 2002. She became a pensioner earlier this year and lived in Merritt Island, Florida. ROBERT MOBLEY EDWARD WHISENHANT Brother Robert Mobley, 59, died July 3. He became a member of the SIU in 2003 when he sailed aboard the Anders Maersk. Brother Mobley worked in the deck department and most recently shipped aboard the Benavidez. He was a Philadelphia resident. Pensioner Edward Whisenhant, 89, passed away July 11. He embarked on his career with the SIU in 1952, initially sailing aboard the Corsair. Brother Whisenhant worked in the engine department and concluded his career aboard the Overseas Chicago. He began collecting his pension in 2000 and called Chickasaw, Alabama, home. ABDULALAH MOHAMED Pensioner Abdulalah Mohamed, 83, passed away June 13. He signed on with the union in 1979. Brother Mohamed first shipped on the Overseas New York and was a member of the steward department. He last sailed aboard the Lihue and went on pension in 2012. Brother Mohamed resided in Oakland, California. JORGE MORA Pensioner Jorge Mora, 82, died July 25. He donned the SIU colors in 1991 and first shipped on the USNS Chauvenet. A member of the steward department, Brother Mora concluded his career aboard the Maersk Iowa and retired in 2010. He called Allentown, Pennsylvania, home. ANTONIO PRIZMIK Pensioner Antonio Prizmik, 88, passed away June 30. He became a member of the union in 1965 when he sailed aboard the Del Norte. Brother Prizmik worked in the steward department. He last sailed aboard the SGT Matej Kocak before going on pension in 1999. Brother Prizmik lived in Orlando, Florida. TERRY SMITH Pensioner Terry Smith, 86, died June 15. He joined the Seafarers International Union in 1968 and first sailed with Alcoa Steamship. Brother Smith was a steward department member. He concluded his career aboard the Liberty Grace and became a pensioner in 2004. Brother Smith lived in Baytown, Texas. CAROLYN THIFAULT Pensioner Caroyln Thifault, 84, passed away June 25. Sailing first aboard the USNS Wright, she donned the SIU colors in 1990. Sister Thifault worked in the steward department and last shipped on the Shughart. She went on pension in 2011 and resided in Marstons Mills, Massachusetts. GREAT LAKES TREVOR ROBINSON Brother Trevor Robinson, 57, died May 24. He joined the SIU in 1999, initially sailing aboard the Sam Laud. Brother Robinson was an engine department member. He last worked on the Pride of America and made his home in Houston. INLAND DONALD GREGORY Pensioner Donald Gregory, 89, died July 4. He began sailing with the Seafarers in 1975. Brother Gregory sailed in both the deck and engine departments. He was employed with Moran Towing of Maryland for his entire career. Brother Gregory went on pension in 1998 and made his home in Perry Hall, Maryland. COREY HORNIG Brother Corey Hornig, 48, passed away May 26. He embarked on his career with the union in 2007 when he worked with Port Imperial Ferry. Brother Hornig worked in the deck department and most recently shipped with Watco. He resided in Kearny, New Jersey. WILLIAM PALMER Pensioner William Palmer, 83, died June 13. He became a member of the Seafarers International Union in 1959. Brother Palmer first sailed with G&H Towing and worked in the deck department. He last sailed aboard the Pacific Reliance before becoming a pensioner in 2009. Brother Palmer was a resident of Hitchcock, Texas. SEPTEMBER 2025 �Paul Hall Center Upgrading Course Dates Printed below are dates for courses scheduled to take place at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, located in Piney Point, Maryland. The QR code connects to a web page with the latest course dates (they may differ from what’s printed here, though in most cases the only changes are additions that haven’t yet made it into the LOG). Seafarers are welcome to contact the admissions office with questions about upgrading courses: (301) 899-0657, admissions@seafarers.org Title of Course Start Date Date of Completion Basic Training Revalidation Oct. 20 Nov. 3 Nov. 7 Dec. 8 Dec. 12 Oct. 20 Nov. 3 Nov. 7 Dec. 8 Dec. 12 Government Vessels Sept. 29 Oct. 20 Nov. 17 Dec. 8 Oct. 3 Oct. 24 Nov. 21 Dec. 12 Tank Ship Fam. - DL Sept. 29 Oct. 20 Oct. 3 Oct. 24 Tank Ship Fam./LG Sept. 22 Oct. 27 Sept. 26 Oct. 31 DECK DEPARTMENT UPGRADING COURSES Lifeboatman/Water Survival Sept. 29 Oct. 10 RFPNW Oct. 13 Oct. 31 Able Seafarer - Deck Oct. 13 Nov. 3 Dec. 1 Oct. 31 Nov. 21 Dec. 19 ENGINE DEPARTMENT UPGRADING COURSES FOWT Sept. 15 Nov. 17 Oct. 10 Dec. 12 RFPEW Oct. 13 Nov. 10 Nov. 7 Dec. 5 Junior Engineer Sept. 29 Nov. 21 ARCM Sept. 29 Dec. 1 Oct. 10 Dec. 12 Welding Oct. 6 Oct. 24 Latest Course Dates STEWARD DEPARTMENT UPGRADING COURSES Certified Chief Cook Sept. 15 Nov. 24 Nov. 21 Jan. 30, 2026 Galley Operations Sept. 22 Oct. 13 Nov. 10 Dec. 1 Oct. 17 Nov. 7 Dec. 5 Dec. 26 ServSafe Management Nov. 17 Nov. 21 Advanced Galley Operations Sept. 15 Nov. 10 Oct. 10 Dec. 5 Chief Steward Oct. 13 Dec. 8 Nov. 7 Jan. 2, 2026 OPEN/SAFETY UPGRADING COURSES Basic Training Sept. 22 Sept. 26 UPGRADING APPLICATION Name__________________________________________________________________________ Address________________________________________________________________________ Telephone (Home)______________________________ (Cell)____________________________ Date of Birth____________________________________________________________________  Deep Sea Member   Lakes Member   Inland Waters Member  COURSE ____________________________ START DATE OF DATE COMPLETION __________________ ____________________________ ____________________________ __________________ ____________________________ ____________________________ __________________ ____________________________ ____________________________ __________________ ____________________________ If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. ____________________________ __________________ ____________________________ Social Security #_________________________________ Book #_________________________ Seniority_______________________________________ Department____________________ Home Port______________________________________________________________________ E-mail _________________________________________________________________________ Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held_____________________________________________ Are you a graduate of the SHLSS/PHC trainee program?  Yes   No  If yes, class # and dates attended___________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses?  Yes   No  _______________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________ __________________ ____________________________ With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty-five (125) days seatime for the previous year, MMC, TWIC, front page of your book including your department and seniority and qualifying sea time for the course if it is Coast Guard tested. Must have a valid SHBP clinic through course date. I authorize the Paul Hall Center to release any of the information contained in this application, or any of the supporting documentation that I have or will submit with this application to related organizations, for the purpose of better servicing my needs and helping me to apply for any benefits which might become due to me. 17 SEAFARERS LOG • OCTOBER 2023 SEPTEMBER 2025 LAST VESSEL: ___________________________________ Rating: ________________________ Date On: _______________________________________ Date Off:________________________ Signature: ______________________________________________ Date:___________________ NOTE: Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only if you present original receipts and successfully complete the course. If you have any questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. Not all classes are reimbursable. Return completed application to: Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education Admissions Office, Email:upgrading@seafarers.org Mail: 45353 St. George’s Ave., Piney Point, MD 20674 Fax: 301-994-2189. The Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education is a private, non-profit, equal opportunity institution and admits students, who are otherwise qualified, or any race, nationality or sex. The school complies with applicable laws with regard to admission, access or treatment of students in its programs or activities. SEAFARERS LOG •SEAFARERS OCTOBER 2023 17 LOG • 17 �Paul Hall Center Class Photos APPRENTICE WATER SURVIVAL CLASS #922 – Recently graduated: Lekeano Babb, Tristan Casarez, Genesis Diaz Jimenez, Jonathan Gil Paul, Kier Hansen, Joshua Harrell, Kevin Johnson, Keith Jordan III, Freedom Le, Heaven McInnis, Eric Nieves Cortes, Tyler Singletary, Charles Stratton, Mirela Sutter, Leon Thompson-Repole, Jeffery Vega, Maxwell Walsh, Tre'von Warren and Isaiah Wells. CHIEF STEWARD – Graduated July 18 (not all are pictured): Joseph Huls, Marcelino Pabito, Tony Pragosa, Andrea Sharpe and Nathaniel Simmons Jr. RFPEW – Graduated July 11: Tristan Casarez, Emmanuel Grant, Keith Jordan III, Freedom Le, Maxwell Walsh and Isaiah Wells. TANK SHIP FAMILIARIZATION (DL) – Graduated July 4: Dantley Bramble, Stuart Casal, Roger Cray Jr., Charlie Flynn, Joshua Gadbois, Patrick Hamilton, Nathaniel Harris, Nathaniel Hart, Stephen Langdon, Dylan Levine, Orion Lloyd, Kainoa MacKenzie, Mitchell Mangold, Jhon-Paul Manzanares, Preston Mizer, Paul Rocha, Jonathan Saili, Ameera Shakeel-Haadee, Michael Sterling, Ethan Sutton, Peter Tago and Elijah Wailehua. RFPNW – Graduated July 4: Lekeano Babb, Genesis Diaz Jimenez, Jonathan Gil Paul, Kier Hansen, Joshua Harrell, Kevin Johnson, Heaven McInnis, Tyler Singletary, Charles Stratton and Leon Thompson-Repole. ELECTRONIC NAVIGATION – Graduated July 18 (not all are pictured): Matthew Hargrove, Sean Jones, GALLEY OPS – Graduated July 11: Eric Nieves Cortes and Mirela Sutter. 18 18 •SEAFARERS SEAFARERSLOG LOG • OCTOBER 2023 Arron Millar, Daniel Moran, Dwuan Reed, Venise Spears, Arielle White and Mackenzie Wincelowicz. Instructor Patrick Schoenberger is at the far left. SEPTEMBER 2025 �Paul Hall Center Class Photos RFPEW – Graduated July 11 (not all are pictured): Carlo Cafe, Anthony Creer, Lordito Cruz Jr., Whitney Fulcher, Cleave Hope, Stephen Reed, Antoinette Rivera, Dion Sanchez Cubas and James Sandoval. GALLEY OPS – Graduated July 11: Larry Troutman Jr. (left) and Shakaylah Miller. BASIC SAFETY – Graduated July 11: Mark Romero. GOVERNMENT VESSELS – Graduated July 25: Florence Brinson, Alphonso Dawson Jr., James Demouy III, Amber Gordon, Korrey Green, Cleave Hope, Tonnette Howard, Ramon Lino, Kia Major, Jose Martinez Jr., Terea Mayberry, James Pascocello, Francis Polite, Mark Romero, Raekwon Simmons, William Storey II, Osbin Valencia-Melendez, Jonathan Walker, Leon Waters and Elaine Watts. SEPTEMBER 2025 TANK SHIP FAMILIARIZATION (DL) – Graduated July 18 (not all are pictured): Luis Flores Ramos, Norman Hook, Cleave Hope, Ivan Kondakov, Martin Morales, Jaden Radcliff, Algernon Reed, Samuel Schwimmer, Mark Stabler, Oscar Vencer III and Kellan Vonrabenstein. SERVE SAFE – Graduated July 18: Traynard Davis, Teneka Farris, Bryant Jenkins, Jacqueline Patterson and Damita Wooten. SMALL ARMS – Graduated July 17 (not all are pictured): Burton Burnett, Michael Fay, Joseph Hendricks, Damon Parker and Omar Rodgers. FOWT – Among those pictured: Jose Abreu Jr., Brize Agbayani, Raymond Barnhart II, Boaventura Barros III, Raenell Brewster, Jaleel Brown, Napoleon Butler, Shawn Byers, Dedrick Carpenter Jr., Esteban Cisneros-Trevino, Adam Ferkula, Chidiadi Floyd, Alexis Gordon Brown, Neil Hadley Jr., Justine Headen, Cotisha Long-Green, Kirill Massey, Darea McCarthy, Robiana Murphy, Jose Perez Davila, Samuel Penn, Tyrice Peterson, Caleb Rawls, Chantanique Reid, Michael Sutton, Collyn Swopes, Kenneth Watts Barry and Conor Westbrook. SEAFARERS LOG •SEAFARERS OCTOBER 2023 LOG • 19 19 �SEPTEMBER 2025 VOLUME 87, NO. 9 SEAFARERS LOG OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION — ATLANTIC, GULF, LAKES AND INLAND WATERS, AFL-CIO SIU-Crewed Gopher State Excels in Military Exercise Personnel aboard the Gopher State continue the exercise July 17 in the Atlantic. (U.S. Navy photo by Yeoman 1st Class Petty Officer Sozae Victormiles) Seafarers aboard the Ready Reserve Force vessel Gopher State (operated by Pacific-Gulf Marine) recently stepped up for a key military support exercise. SIU members did their part as cargo handlers from the U.S. Navy Expeditionary Logistics Support Group (NAVELSG) and Navy Cargo Handling Battalion One (NCHB-1) executed “a critical vertical launch system (VLS) rearm, including a missile reload evolution” involving Cargo handlers stand by on the destroyer USS Farragut as they prepare to receive the Gopher State and the USS Farragut, the vertical launch system canisters during an exercise with the SIU-crewed Gopher Defense Department reported. State. (U.S. Navy photo by Yeoman 1st Class Petty Officer Sozae Victormiles) The operation, which took place in midJuly, was part of an exercise formally named Large Scale Exercise 2025 (LSE 25). According to the Defense Department, this component “demonstrated the vital role of expeditionary logistics in supporting distributed maritime operations and sustaining combat power at sea.” AB Julius Sykes stated, “It was a great process of everybody communicating and getting the cargo back and forth. I was happy to be part of it. Things were very cooperative between the SIU and the military. They said we were very helpful.” A Seafarer since 2007, Sykes said he and other SIU members and officers “helped with throwing the lines, shifting the ship forward and aft, bunkering. It was great. Trying to find the right measurements, lining up the ships properly.” He added that his training from the SIUaffiliated Paul Hall Center proved useful during the exercise. “It helped plenty,” Sykes said. “Everything I learned at Piney Point was used, from undocking and docking the ship, steering, the call signs and more.” “The ability to conduct safe and efficient vertical missile rearm at sea is a critical warfighting enabler,” said Lt. Cmdr. John Sefcik, weapons officer aboard the Farragut. “What NAVELSG brings to the fight is a highly trained team capable of executing these complex operations in dynamic maritime environments – and that directly increases the fleet’s lethality and operational reach.” As reported by the Defense Visual Information Distribution Service, “Anchored alongside the guided-missile destroyer, Gopher State utilized its heavy-lift cranes to transfer missile canisters simultaneously to Farragut’s fore and aft VLS cells, conducting a first-of-itskind rearm at sea. The demonstration, executed by crane operators and cargo handlers from NCHB-1’s Surface Cargo and Expeditionary Reload Companies, highlighted the command’s unique capability to deliver high-end logistics in a contested environment…. “The two-ship operation was one of many events contributing to LSE 25, a Department of Defense-led global exercise designed to enhance joint force agility, strengthen allied interoperability, and demonstrate multinational readiness across all domains.” “Today marks a significant milestone in the Navy’s ability to evolve and maintain our warfighting advantage,” said Rear Adm. Charles Kirol, commander, NAVELSG. “Rearming warships at sea is a capability that adds significant complexity for those who choose to challenge us in conflict. NAVELSG has been at the center of developing our Navy’s rearming options – from routine pier-side operations to expeditionary, non-permissive environments, and now at sea, globally.” A vertical launch system canister is guided into the missile deck of the USS Farragut. The SIU-crewed Gopher State (right) teams up with the USS Farragut for an exercise that the Defense Department said (U.S. Navy photo by Yeoman 1st Class Petty Officer Sozae Victormiles) “underscored joint interoperability … at sea.” (U.S. Navy photo by Cmdr. Duane Case) � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 2020-present Description An account of the resource Volumes LXXXII of the Seafarers Log and beyond Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource SEPTEMBER 2025 Description An account of the resource SIU JOBS SECURE WITH RRF AWARDS STARS AND STRIPES RAISED ABOARD PHOENIX CABLE LAYING BARGE MEANS NEW JOBS FOR SEAFARERS LABOR GROUP SEEKS TAX RELIEF FOR MEMBERS SIU MOURNS VALERIE COLE GREAT LAKES MARITIME TASK FORCE HONORS REP. MCCLAIN NEW BOAT JOINS GLT FLEET IN THEIR OWN WORDS WOMEN AT SEA FAITH GONSE SIU CREWED GOPHER STATE EXCELS IN MILITARY EXERCISE Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 09/01/2025 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context VOL. 87, NO. 9