http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/c245f3bb61d037c6c024912bcf977f84.PDF 987e5d73cfb2f4a90d7f2e6f6e8e8e22 PDF Text Text story On Page 2 SEAFARlBRS LOG ,• OFFICIAL ORGAN OF THE SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION • ATLANTIC AND GULF DISTRICT • AFL • HOOVER REPORT SEEKS PHS DOOM -Story On Page 3 Sojfa Of Two Stowaways...As The Robin Tuxford (Outbound) Met The Robin Mowbray (Inbound) I Seafarers on lifeboat from the Robin Tuxford take up the sea painter of ,* the Robin Mowbray to prepare transferring two stowaways discovered soon after the Tuxford left Capetown, South Africa. O Short ocean trip for the stowaways nears an end as * they start up the ladder to board the Robin Mowbray, which was enroute to Capetown at the time. Q Aboard the Mowbray, Seafarers at rail look on as one of the stowaways (wearing suit Jacket) waits for his partner. Their sea adventure was cut short after only 800 miles at sea. Despite choppy seas, the transfer of both men was soon over, and they were on their way home again. All photos by Seafarer Oscar Raynor. . �. Page Tw« 11'.. *" SEAFARERS hOG House Body Raps Foul-Ups Over '50-50' And Transfers ^: March 4.195S Launch New SIU Passenger Run WASHINGTON—Confirming eveiy charge made by the SIU, the House Mer­ chant Marine Commitee has severely criticized US tramp shipowners, the Mari­ time Administration and other responsible Government agencies for their mishan­ dling of foreign aid cargoes and for maladministration of the "50-50" law. ^ The committee found that the Maritime Administrator had transferred tramp ships in the face of an ob­ How has the transfer of 69 Libertys afTected the US tramp fleet? vious upsurge in US-flag Here are a few examples. business; the tramp ship­ * Pacific Coast shippel-s reported that there was an "acute short­ age" of lumber space. owners had played hide-and* With no lay-up ships coming out, inquiries are out for British, seek hy means of the transfer Australian, South African and other foreign flag vessels to carry gimmick, forcing up charter lumber. prices, and the various Gov­ * Business in grain, coal and other commodities was such that ernment agencies had messed shipowners had "little incentive" to bring ships into the West up foreign aid shipments. Coast area, even though present rates are "rather high." Further the committtee strongly * The Department of Agriculture has not been able to locate defended the "50-50" law as in no enough US-flag tonnage to handle Yugoslavian wheat shipments way responsible for any foul-up in and has authorized carriage of 80,000 tons on foreign bottoms. aid shipments. It was highly criti­ cal of US and foreign interests who attempted to undermine it and charged that the incompetence of tremely favorable terms under the cumstances, the committee conadministrative agencies and the 1946 ship sales act. This act was cluded, the foreign nations have excessive greed of tramp ship­ designed, in the committee's words, no kick coming. owners was playing into the hands to promote "an efficient and ade­ quate merchant marine." of the foreign interests. Congress, the committee added, While nothing can be done about then passed the "50-50" law with­ Members of the deck department on the newest SIU passenger the transfers short of drastic new out lyhich "the American tramp run pausp for a picture aboard the SS Cuba during loading of legislation governing foreign-flag stores before her maiden voyage last month. Pictured (1-r) arei registrations, the committee de­ fleet could not continue to exist." The committee further noted 'Skinny' Wells, AB; Rudy Cancella, AB; Pat Robertson, Bosun, anjl manded that one central agency, Jack Thayer, AB. Ship runs between Tampa and Havana. the General Services Administra­ that 27 of the 69 Liberty ships tion, take charge of all foreign aid which transferred foreign were WASHINGTON — Former shipments. It urged, further, that purchased in December 1950 and Maritime Administrator Louis the Stale Department should January 1951, after the Chinese B. Rothschild was sworn in "maintain the national policy of Communists entered the Korean this week as Under Secretary of the United States" with respect to fighting. "Now only four years Commerce for Transportation. later, the owners have transferred Earlier his appointment to the "50-50". The report implied that the one half the US tramp fleet to post was unanimously approved by State Department's attitude was foreign-tlag registry . . ." a Senate committee, although his Plenty of Cargo encouraging the enemies of "50policies as MA chief came under 50" both at home and abroad by "It was said that at the outset fire from at least one committee doing nothing while foreign na­ of the recent transfer program the member. tions raised all sorts of difficulties tramp shipowners indicated a de­ At a hearing of the Senate Inter­ in the handling of foreign aid ship­ sire to remain under the Amei'ican state and Foreign Commerce Com­ ments. flag but that lack of cargoes . . . mittee, Senator Magnuson, the left no alternative to transfer . . . committee c'haii-man from Wash­ Mortgage-Duckers The SEAFARERS LOG had Yet despite a steadily strengthen­ ington, disagreed ..with Rothschild's charged that tramp shipowners had ing charter market . . . the enact­ foreign transfer policy of last Au­ gone into business at the start of ment of legislation . . . (50-50 and gust under which 69 Americanthe Korean War, had reaped the the coal and food surplus pro­ flag Liberty ships were transferred profits of war cargoes without even grams) there is no indication that to foreign registry. paying a cent, in many instances, any operator withdrew his trans­ Rothschild, who was nominated on their ship mortgages to the US fer application . . by President Eisenhower to suc­ , Each transfer meant the ceed Robert B. Murray, Jr., as the government, and then turned around and switched their regis­ loss of job opportunities for some commerce undersecretary. Is ex­ tries to runaway flags with the ap­ 40 American seSmen. Owners . . . pected to move still Jiigher In the proval of the same Maritime Ad­ should bear in mind that ... the Eisenhower administration. ministration which held the mort­ 1936 and 1946 acts were designed Indications now are that Roths­ to protect American seamen as child will be succeeded as both gages. The House Committee pointed well . . . the tramp ship operators Maritime Administrator and chair­ Ready for a rushing business in the ship's bar, Seafarers M. man of the Federal Maritime out that the tramp fleet was ac­ have not been loyal .. ." Yglesias, bartender, and Ray Gonzalez, bar waiter, practice a dry Elsewhere in its report, the Board by Clarence G. Morse, who quired by shipowners under exrun with a few set-ups. The Quba joins the popular SS Florida committee pointed out that 32 of is now general counsel for both which has been on the Miami-Havana run for many years. Both 69 tramp ships were transferred maritime bodies. vessels are operated by the P&O Steamship Co. after November 1, 1954, when it was clear that cargo would be Mor. 4, 1955 Vol. XVII, No. 5 available "in a matter of weeks..." Inadequate Fleet As I See It Page 4 "The result is that we now have Burly Page 15 Crossword Puzzle .... Page 8 an American tramp fleet which is The largest group of applicants in the three-year history of the SIU Scholarship Plan, 18 Editorial Cartoon .......Page 9 or mby soon prove to be wholly in all, are vying for the four 1955 awards worth $6,000 each. Eight Seafarers and 10 chil* Editorials Page 9 inadequate even to carry the mip- dren of Seafarers have met qualifications thus far and either have taken the college en* Final Dispatch r Page 19 imum of 50 percent of Govern­ trance examinations or will-* Inquiring Seafarer Page 8 ment cargoes provided for in the take them soon. to take the next test on Saturday, call for the applicant, if a Seafarer, Labor Round-Up Page 8 law." The 18 applicants don't March 12. to have three years seatime oa Letter of The Week Page 9 The committee went over the necessarily reflect the final totals The growing interest in the SIU SIU ships. If the child of a Sea­ Letters Page 15 handling of foreign aid shipments Maritime Page 8 in a similar vein. It spoke of a re­ since there is still time for addi­ Plan reflects its generous cash farer, the father's seatime is tha~ Meet The Seafarer Page 8 grettable lack of coordination in tional candidates to qualify and provisions, its imlimited range of qualifying factor. All applicants must be in thf Notices, Personals Page 17 handling shipments uuder "50-50" take the college entrance test. The study and the fact that both Sea­ last examination for this year will farers and their children can upper third of their high school Off Watch Page 14 with the result that shipments Port Reports Pages 12, 13 have been delayed because there be given on May 21 and the com­ qualify. In addition, four of the graduating class and must submit mittee of university administrators candidates for this year's awards transcripts of their high school Quiz Page 14 wqs no uniform procedure. who select the winners will meet had competed unsuccessfully last records plus tliree letters of ref­ Recent Arrivals Page 18 Finally, it scorned the argu­ at the end of June. year. The terms of the Scholarship erence, one from their high school SIU History Cartoon .._... Page 6 ments of foreign nations and for­ Actually, a total of 43 inquiries Plan permit them to come back principal. Vote of Thanks Page 9 eign shipping associations, point­ were reported by the SIU Welfare again for another try if they take Winners of the previous years* Welfare. Benefits ....Pages 18, 19 ing out that foreign shipowners another college entrance examina­ Plan Office but a number of those awards were: 1953, Robert Good­ Welfare Report Page 18 were getting half of the shipments win,'' Alma Jimenez, Charlena Your Dollar's Worth Page 4 and toeing paid in American dol­ inquiring were not qualified under tion. In its first year, 1953, the four Holden and Elizabeth Lomas, all the terms of the plan and others PubllshMl biweekly et fhe headquarfert lars to boot, while the freight rates failed to complete their applica­ awards were won by children of children of Seafarers; 1954, Sea­ of the Seafarers International Union, At­ are paid for by the local govern­ tions. Seafarers, but last year three of farers Ed Larkin, Wallace Simp­ lantic A Gulf District AFL, *75 Fourth Five of the 18 remaining hav? the four awards were, taken by son and Seymour Wallace, and Avenue, Brooklyn 32, NY. Tel. HYacinth ments to the United States at the 9-660*. Entered as second class matter official rate in their own depre- already taken the college entrance Seafarers themselves. Jack Game, son of Seafarer Eddia •t th« Port Offlco In Brooklyn, NY, undo* _ i. • Hiq Art of Ausurt 24, wx ciated currency. Under such cir- tests and five more.^ari^.,^^]^eduIed . The SIU Plan's jrequlrenMnts S. Game. • MA Chief Gets New Gov't Job a;^ r L-> %:k'• K- :l 1;^ SEAFARERS LOG 18 Seek SIU Seholarships. Ilfir- |i u. I r\<-,•''''••' �March 4,1955 skAFAttBRS LOG Thres La. Seatrain Hoover Report Proposes Dock Blaze Delays Ship End To All U5PHS Hosps : NEW ORLEANS—Fire that • broke out an hour and a half after the Seatrain Louisiana . departed from this port bound for , Savannah and New York destroyed a 400-fopt section of the Seatrain Lines docks near Belle Chasse on the west bank of the Mississippi. , Damage from the February 19th blaze was estimated at about $250,. 000. ! Origin of the fire was undeter­ mined, but company officials theo^rized it may have been touched off by a cigarette smoldering among the creosoted pilings. A draft of air created when the Seatrain Louis­ iana pulled away from the dock could have fanned it into flame, according to this theory. Arrival of the Seatrain Georgia a week later was delayed one day until temporary repairs could be made. Meeting Night Everg 2 Weeks Regular membership meet­ ings in SIU headquarters and at all branches are held ;every second Wednesday night at 7 PM. The schedule for the next few meetings is as follows: Mar. 9, Mar. 23, April 16. All Seafarers registered on the shipping list are required to attend the meetings. WASHINGTON—Dusting oflf the slightly motheaten program that was put forth last year by Mrs. Oveta Gulp Hobby, the Hoover Commission on Government Reorganization has proposed the closing of the Public Health Service hospitals. The new proposal is an exact duplicate of the one that former Budget Director Joseph Dodge and Mrs. Hobby, Secretary of Health, Education and Welfare, put before Congress in mid-1953 only to have it voted down last year after a wave of protest from Seafarers and others in the maritime industry. The Hoover Commissionf of all medical services in the "economizers" taken into ac­ on much if not all of this cost to recommendations came as deprived count the fact that thousands of the Government itself. one blow. part of package document Nowhere in its lengthy report seamen and other patients would The net result would be a less -on Government health serv­ ices including the Veterans Administration and Defense Department hospital facili­ ties. As far as Seafarers are cohcerned, the proposals call for an end to all med cal services for seamen and the closing of all of the Public Health Service hos­ pitals with the exception of four —the Bethesda research center, the Lexington narcotics center, the Carville leprosarium and the Fort Worth hospital for mental cases. Others Curtailed Other Governmental medical services to men and women in the Armed Forces, and to veterans, to various civiL servants and to dependents of men in uniform would be curtailed but not discon­ tinued. This would be accomplish­ ed by closing some of the hospitals and limiting free treatment in some instances according to ability to pay. But it is only the seamen who are singled out as a target to be does the commission make any reference to the cost of free medi­ cal care lavishly given to members of Congress and other high Gov­ ernment officials at both the Wal­ ter Reed hospital and at Bethesda. With Congressmen having raised their wages to $22,500, and other officials in a similar income brac­ ket, the free hospital services to them would normally come under attack, according to the arguments used in the commission's report. If the Hoover Commission pro­ posals were to be adopted by Con­ gress it would mean the closing of 13 hospitals and the end-of a pro­ gram of service to seamen that has been functioning for 157 years. The Public Health Service Hos­ pitals have long been the targets of self-styled "economizers." Since World War II they have succeeded in curtailing services to seamen by closing ten of the 26 hospitals that were originally functioning and cutting down on appropriations for other hdspitals. In none of these proposals have McLean Signs SIU Pact; Plans Trailer-ship Fleet MOBILE—The SIU signed the McLean Securities Corp. to a regular SIU freightship agreement last week, thereby assuring that Seafarers will continue to man the seven ships bought by McLean in January when it purchased the Pan - Atlan,tic Steamship Corp., Waterman's coastwise subsid--*iary. McLean is the company of the new company. The negotia­ The seven ships involved in the maritime observers feel will tions were handled by Port Agent Pan-Atlantic transaction, all C-2s, revitalize the almost-dead coast­ Cal Tanner, SIU representative in are the Antinous. Arizpa, Beaure­ wise trade. A further result of the signing is the likelihood that Seafarers will man a projected fleet of specially-designed trailer-ships for coastwise operations long planned by Malcolm P. McLean, president Laid-Up Tanker Turns Turtle Company officials are still awaiting the results of a pre­ liminary survey by divers of the damage to the tanker Camas Meadows, which capsized during a violent storm last month at Genoa, Italy. No SIU crewmembers were aboard. Laid up for some time, the foriSer SlU-manned ship was one of several vessels in the harbor which took a beating from the big blow. No other SlU-contracted ships were reported affected, however. Destructive Winds The storm, described as one of the worst to hit ^ the area in 50 years, featured winds which hacked 100-foot holes in a breakwater 40 feet high. Divers have not yet completed their survey of the ship, since the storm lasted several days. US Petroleum Carriers, Inc., operators of the vessel, also have two other iships under SIU contract, the tank­ ers Fort Bridger and Lake George. All of them are laid up right now. this port. Pan-Atlantic's home office will remain here, at least for the time being. Opening Wedge The purchase of PM-Atlantic Is expected to provide McLean with the opening wedge in his fight to get a trailer-ship service underway. He has stepped down as head of the McLean Trucking Co. of Winston-Salem, NC, to get the new enterprise off the ground. PanAtlantic already has the authority to call at the East Coast ports which could be serviced by a trailer-ship operation. Construction of at least four special vessels capable of carrying 286 35-foot loaded truck-trailers in a "roll on-roll off" service is plan­ ned by McLean. The new vessels would supplement rather than re­ place present Pan-Atlantic opera­ tions and would reportedly involve an outlay of $43.5 million for con­ struction.* Charters Expected It is believed they would be built .^for Pan-Atlantic and then chartered to the McLean Trucking Co., which has already asked the Interstate Commerce Commission for authority to buy another firm, S. C. Loveland, Inc., a barge oper­ ator, and to start its trailer-ship service. Although Waterman has how apparently abandoned all hope of reviving its own coastwise trade, it will continue operating its-re­ maining ships in the intercoastal trade and in runs to the Far East, Europe'and-Puerto Rico. gard, Chickasaw, DeSoto, Iberville and Warrior. Under the new agree­ ment, they will continue to be manned by SIU crews as before. be thrown upon the overburdened resources of local hospitals which are already over-crowded with pa­ tients. Nor have they considered the fact that the SIU would im­ mediately take steps to transfer the responsibility for care of in­ jured seamen to the shipping com­ panies, who in turn, would pass efficient and probably more cost­ ly system than now exists. Closing of the hospitals would also be a distinct setback to medi­ cal progress since they have pi­ oneered many medical develop­ ments including sanitation, indus­ trial hygiene and new forms of (Continued On Page 17) TV Eye Again Focused SIU Baltimore Hall / A second major television program devoted nearly a halfhour to a "live" pick-up from the SIU's new Baltimore branch hall. Station WMAR-TV in Baltimore did the show on Sun­ day, February 27, from 4:00 to^ 4:30 PM, devoting itself to an |in the Baltimore Union hall itself; explanation of maritime union ' ' The bulk of the program was functions in the port. The pro­ devoted to an SIU job call out of gram is a regular local TV feature the new hiring hall, and to a called "The Port That Built A ship's payoff scene as shown on City." the spot with a US shipping com­ Previously, WAAM-TV in that missioner, a Waterman company city had featured film clips and representative and a ship's cap­ still shots of the new hall on a tain present. Other activities in program that deals with indus- the hall, principally the cafeteria trial and commercial develop- and Baltimore Port C Call, were ments in Baltimore. And just also covered by the TV cameras. three weeks ago, WMAR-TV in­ There was just one interview terviewed Seafarers on board the on the program, that being with a Steelore, dealing with their suc­ veteran MM&P skipper The cess in saving the ship from dis­ MM&P, along with several other aster in an Atlantic storm. unions, has its Baltimore offices in the SIU hall. Direct From Hall Last Sunday's show was done "The Port That Built A City" is directly out of the SIU hall with conducted by Miss Helen Dellch, the^ exception of a few film clips. marine editor of the "Baltimore Some of these were from the SIU- Sun." As the name indicates, the produced film, "The Seafarers," show is a presentation of features showing Seafarers on the ships. dealing with maritime activities Welfare Services Representatives in the port of Baltimore. It is visiting seamen's homes and other designed to keep the importance shots that could not be duplicated of shipping in the public's eye. Baltimore SIU port agent. Earl Sheppard, explains how ship is paid off to WMAR-TV televiewers as US shipping commissioner, company rep and Seafarers go through simulated payoff procedure. Miss Helen Delieh, who conducts program, "Fort That Built A City" is holding mike. Payoff scene and others) in which Seafarers took part were televised di^ct from SIU Baltimore hail on Sunday -February-U7.'„''""" •:KT. �MaMki/iiM BiAFAttBKS toe Pace T«V MarkFuruseth'sBirth r:-.. Andrew Furuseth starts on his second century this month. The "Abraham Lincoln of the* sea," who helped free seamen all over the world from the dictatorship of oldtime desertion and mutiny laws, would be 101 years old this coming March 12 if he were still alive. Although Furuseth's repu-"^ from the desertion laws. The 1915 tation was established way SEVERAL OF EUROPE'S MOST IMPORTANT MARITIME act also contained a wide variety of nations, led by the British, are balking vigorously against application back in the 19th century and specifications on the treatment of of the "50-50" law on US surplus products. In at least one instance, capped by the 1915 Seaman's Act, seamen, minimum safety provi­ some of these surplus cargoes were rejected by a leading maritime na> there ai'e men going to sea today sions, adequate foc'sle space and tion on the grounds that they could not dictate the carriage of these who knew him personally. There other regulations. It is the base on cargoes on ships of their own flag. are Seafarers active In the SIU which subsequent acts were built who were present at Furuseth's Many shoreside people may toe indifferent or unsympathetic to the here and abroad and from which funeral ceremonies aboard the seamen's unions proceeded in im­ importance that is attached to "50-50" by people in US maritime, Schoharie, which took place in 1938 simply because they are unfamiliar with the operations qf interna­ proving shipboard conditions. out of Savannah, shortly after his tional trade. But a few imaginary examples will serve to bring the First-CIass Citizenship 84th birthday. issue home directly. Unfortunately, Furuseth never In all this, Furuseth's basic idea Coal is one of the big items which Uncle Sam is moving overseas in lived to see the formation of the was to win for seamen the rights of great quantity. Millions of tons are being donated to other nations SIU of North America and the first-class citizenship and the full with no strings attached because there is more soft coal available in gains won for seamen in the years respect of the community. As he this country than is needed while many European countries suffer from that followed. But from 1887, when put it in a iflessage to the 1929 "9 chronic shortage of this commodity. Suppose one of the countfies he was elected secretary of the SUP convention: that was on the receiving end was to demand that its coal companies Coast Seamen's Union, until the "There Is no reason why we 1930's, he was the acknovvledged should not receive wages equal to and coal miners be allowed to go into Pennsylvania and West Virginia leader of all American seamen. In those of the average mechanic. The and dig the coal. Suppose, further, they insisted on sending rail­ Andrew Furuseth, from a and roiling stock to transport it to dockside to be put on*their those years he almost single-hand­ very nature of our calling demands roaders painting. ships. edly pushed through the White of us seamen a willingness to die Obviously such a demand would be considered fantastically unrea­ Act and the Seamen's Act of 1915, ships where conditions were not to that others may live. The world at sonable. Yet the same demand is considered acceptable once it ap­ the American seaman's magna their liking and marked the begin­ large demands this . . . while . . . charta, which was expanded and ning of a successful fight on the it insists upon treating us as the plies to transporting the commodity—coal, grain, butter or anything Improved in the Jones Act of 1928. infamous combine of crimp oper­ stepchildren of human society . . . else-—past the arbitrary three-mile limit of coastal waters. In the current surplus cargo situation these foreign nations are claim­ Furuseth was unusual in that he ators and shipowner. When the nation needs men to de­ ing the right to carry Government-owned cargoes in any quantity be­ accomplished exactly what he set fend its seacoasts, and we fail, the Fought For Freedom cause they are paying the freight cost. Actually though, in many In­ out to do. A Norwegian who sailed nation suffers, and yet under ordi­ Then for 18 years Furuseth under European flags for many fought tirelessly for freedom for nary conditions when there is no stances the freight cost is being paid into the foreign shipowners years, he decided that the only way all merchant seamen and legisla­ danger either to the nation or to pocket in good US dollars while the US is getting foreign cur/ency of to free seamen from bondage was tion setting minimum conditions on the lives of passengers, we are gen­ dubious value in return. The foreign shipowner wouldn't have it any to form a union in the United board ships. The climax was the erally. looked upon and treated other way—it's the dollars he wants. No one in the middle of this "50-50" argument should lose sight States and use it as a lever to win 1915 Seamen's Act, sponsored by like roughnecks . . . There are yet human rights for seamen all over Robert LaFollelte, Sr., which abol­ many who think anybody is good of the fact that US-owned cargoes and "50-50" have been as great a the world. With that in mind he ished the desertion law on all enough for the sea and that most boon to the foreign shipowner as to the American. For "50-50," of settled in California and devoted ships, foreign or American, while men are too good for the sea, but course, works both ways. Just as it is a guarantee that 50 percent of himself to the cause. in US ports. The long-range effect their number is gradually dimin­ Government cargoes go on US bottoms, the reverse is equally true. It virtually guarantees 50 percent to foreign bottoms as well. The way Brutality Was Rule was to free seamen everywhere ishing ..." all the "50-50" provisions have been administered in past years is At the time, the 1880's, seamen ample proof of that fact. under all flags were subject to the These surplus and foreign aid programs have also had the effect of iron rule of captains and mates. raising freight rates all around for both domestic and foreign carriers. Because there was no legal way of Consequently, your Union believes that "50-50" and US aid has been paying off a ship before the end a tremendous factor in the prosperity of the foreign shipowner. He of a voyage, conditions were un­ would weep"bitter tears if the day should come that there were no Gov­ believably bad and brutality was ernment-owned cargoes for him to carry. the rule. Most sign-ons were for Actually while the foreigii-flag shipowner cries "freedom of the seas" extremely long periods of time. BOSTON—Seafarers and representatives of unions from and "discrimination," what ha is really looking for Is 100 percent con­ The only way a seaman could escape beatings, floggings, bad food all over Massachusetts teamed up this week to help bury a trol of these cargoes and the bankruptcy of the US merchant marine. In your Union's opinion, the law should require 100 percent of and overwork was to jump ship proposed state "right to work" bill. The measure is opposed Government cargoes to go under the American flag. Your Union is without pay and leave all his pos­ by leaders of both parties in-*^ quite certain that this 100 percent practice is thd way foreign govern­ sessions behind. This branded "him So-called "right to.work" laws ments handle their own cargoes. When the British, for instance, were as a deserter. If he banded to­ the legislature, the governor gether with his shipmates to at­ and the State Commissioner have been adopted in 18 states jn sending aid to Greece in 1946, or to Malaya or any other part of the recent years. They restrict most world where they have an interest, you can be sure that everything, tempt to improve conditions he of Labor. forms of union security, such as without exception, moved on a British ship. Only One Backer could be charged with mutiny. the closed shop. A similar bill is During a jammed hearing at the Furuseth started first to improve SEVERAL WEEKS AGO THE SEAFARERS LOG INVITED conditions for coastwise seamen, State House Feb. 28, no one spoke now pending before the Maryland because they were excluded from up for the bill except its sponsor. legislature, sponsored by the readers to send in for copies of a booklet on "Your Dollar's Worth,'' certain of the harsher provisions of State Representative Charles S. Chamber of Commerce and others. the column which deals with buying problems likely to be faced by the law. A combined campaign of Marston III of Haverhill, a Repub­ Lawmakers in Idaho rejected one Seafarers and their families. The response to this offer has been a surprisingly heavy one with the result that hundreds of booklets hanging up individual ships and lican. Massachusetts law requires earlier this year. Marston, whose family owns a containing a selection of these columns have been mailed out to Sea­ activity in Washington gradually that every bill must have a public brought about abolition of deser­ hearing. Accordingly, a legislative shoe factory, was hissed as he left farers and other interested readers. Your Union is gratifled to know that there is such keen interest tion laws in the coastwise trade committee went through the mo­ the room. One of the legislators and later in the offshore trade. It tions of hearing the pro and cons called his proposal "a bastard son shown in the material that appears in these columns, which, by the way, are written exclusively with Seafarers in mind. of the Taft-Hartley Act." meant that seamen could pay off on the proposed law. UnionsTeamllpToBury Mass. Anti-Labor Bill • WORTH SEAFARERS GUIDE TO BETTER BUYING Shopping Refrigerators Refi'igerators are a little less expensive this year than last—^from $10 to $30 less—and more of them have the good design features that most families want, such as the full-width freezer chest. A Seafarer and his family out shopping for a refrig­ erator should be aware that the same manufacturer's de­ luxe and standard or "stripped" models are basically the same steel box, the same three inches of insulation, the same mechanism and baked-enamel exterior. The price difference results from added features. The trick is to select the box with the features you really want and which are really valuable, and avoid those boxes that ask a high price for mere gadgets. Automatic defrosting, for example, may be a valuable feature but not such recently introduced devices as drink dispensers, or special icemaking equipment. Automatic Defrosting: Many refrigerators now have automatic defrosters. These are advertised under all kinds of pseudo-scientiflc names that confuse buyers more than they explain. Basically there are two types of automaticdefrost systems. One type is a timer. At a set time each day it turns on a heating element that does the defrosting —generally in less than 20 minutes. The other .type ls.« push-button. It turns on the heating element to start defrosting after the refrigerator door has been opened and closed a certain number of times. (Frost accumulates each time a refrigeratoi-'door is opened.) The push-button type of automatic defroster thus defrosts several times a day, depending on how much you use the refrigerator. Undoubtedly automatic defrost is a valuable feature. Defrosting is a chore, and neglecting it reduces a refrig­ erator's efficiency and makes it use more current. But the manufacturers demand a high price for boxes with automatic defrost—often a hundred dollars more for the same size box without it. Full-Width Freezer Chests: These generally can store 40-60 pounds of frozen foods, and are a definite advantage in saving shopping trips and also taking advantage of spe­ cial buys in meats and frozen produce. The full-width compartments are also more efficient than the smaller U-shape compartments. Fortunately, it is not necessary to pay a high price for a refrigerator with this feature. Some brands offer full-width freezer jM)mpartments in moderateprice models as well as expensive ones. However, note that there are two types of freezer com­ partments; the ordinary kind which generally holds frozen foods at 15 degrees, and the so-called "true" freezer comvpartments which-geL.the temperatuie down'to zero. For Written exclusively for THE SEAFARERS LOG. by Sidney Margolius, Leading Expert on Buying most families, the ordinary kind is sufficient and saves the extra expense of the colder compartments, which are necessary only if you quick-freeze some of yc^ur own pro­ duce or store frozen foods for more than a week. Special Features: Adjustable butter conditioners and "bacon and cheese keepers" are widely-promoted features of the more expensive refrigerator but it is hardly woFth buying a costly model for these gadgets. Drink dispensers,^ automatic ice-makers, and special egg baskets are other widely-advertised gadgets which should not be decisive factors in making your choice. The Size: A large-enough refrigerator pays for itself by enabling you to buy foods in larger quantities and con­ serve leftovers. In fact, the price per chbic foot of capacity is lower as refrigerators get larger. But don't get too large a box since there is an increase in operating costs too. A simple rule is that a family of three should have a sevenfoot box, with each additional person requiring two more cubic feet. Shop for Discount: The nationally-advertised makes have very high list prices, so it pays to shop for the best discount. Many independept dealers these days'give dis­ counts of 20-25 percent on refrigerators, thus trimmihiE $10C! ot-ihore off the price of the larger boxes. �•••'••''^vv March 4.19SS SEAFAREKS Par* Plr* toe Seafarers Brave Raging Sea To Aid Fishing Boat Seafarers aboard the Antinous (Pan-Atlantic) were participants in the latest in a series of rescue missions in which SIU crews have been involved recently in stormy Gulf Waters. The successful effort helped save the lives of three men on a disabled fishing boat. Details supplied by Sea--* ^ farer Maurice "Duke" Duet, sick man with his head in the en­ the trick, however. The captain DM, helped fill in the gaps of gine box with the gas fumes," decided to lead out the lyle gun Enjoying Mardi Gras in New Orleans French Quarter is this group of Seafarers and lady friends. Hiding behind mask at left is the "smiling bosun" Mike Rossi, while C. "Red" Carolan sports topper. In rear are Jesse Williams (left) and John Chopstick. Girls are Vera Storien and Lee Hume. Seafarers Help Fete Cay NO Mardi Cras NEW ORLEANS—chilling rain that prevailed through­ out most of the day kept many Mardi Gras celebrants indoors on Carnival Day, celebrated here February 22, but did not serve to dampen the enthusi--*asm of Seafarers who partici­ and most New Orleans men aboard pated in the festivities in the Mississippi, Alcoa and Waterman famed French Quarter surround­ ing the SIU hall in New Orleans. Despite the severe weather, the streets wei-e crowded with gay celebrants and widely-renowned Canal Street was jammed from curb to curb by those who gathered to join in the revelry and to watch parades that passed by throughout much of the day and far into the Jiight. Few Quit Ships Missing from the annual festivi­ ties this year were many New Or­ leans Seafarers who traditionally come ashore for vacations at this season to join with family and friends in the revelry. iShipping has been off here in recent weeks NY Alcoa Runs Gain 3 Ships The SlU-manned Alcoa Steamship Company is in­ creasing its services out of New York to the Cai'ibbean. Three ships normally running out of the Gulf are in the process of being added to the New York runs. The Alcoa Pegasus, Alcoa Planffer and Alcoa Pilgrim will join their sister ships, the Puritan, Pointer, Partner and the three Alcoa C-2's in regular service out of New Y'ork. In addition, the Alcoa Pioneer, which was on charter to States Marine Lines, will make one trip out of New York before going into regular service in the Gulf area. ships running into New Orleans chose to stay aboard their ships. Those who did come ashore, however, and others on the beach here celebrated the gay holiday in typical New Orleans fashion. SUP Marks 70th Year, Many Gains The granddaddy of all maritime unions, the Sailors Union of the Pacific, reaches a story published in the St. Peters­ burg (Fla.) Times on February 5. The incident took place about 75 miles west of there the day be­ fore. The Antinous was bound from Tampa to New Orleans at the time. Apparently the only ship in the area, the Antinous first learned of the mishap when it received a dis­ tress call from the Coast Guard telling that a fishing boat with three men aboard had motor trou­ ble and was sinking. Off To Rescue Meanwhile, Captain Ryan on the Antinous bad sounded a general alarm and within a few minutes. Duet said. Chief Mate Evans and seven men were over the side on their way to the rescue in one of the ship's boats. Five minutes later, however, the motor conked out, so the boat crew took to the oars while Phillips, the first ^assist­ ant engineer, worked on the motor. But the wind and seas proved too strong for this and the boat had to return to be picked up. Efforts to fix up the motor worked this time, so a^ain a vol­ unteer crew of some of the first gang and new volunteers set out. "At times we couldn't see it," Duet recalled, "and the fishing boat was still about three miles off. Everyone in the boat was cold and wet as they hadn't even con­ sidered the condition of the seas when we started out." Then, after running for three hours so that the boat finally got to within 100 feet of the South Seas, the motor gave up again. The first assistant went to work on it again and "must have been some a historic milestone this Sunday. On that date, March 6, it will cele­ brate its 70th anniverasry of con­ tinuous existence as a seamen's union. March 6, 1885, was the dale of ^ the open air meeting of a few hun­ TAMPA—One of the latest dred seamen at Folsom Street wharf, San Francisco, that gave SIU men to qualify for SIU birth to the Coast Seamen's Union disability benefits, Seafarer as it was then called. Seamen Nick Giosue has been receiving his on the coastwise schooners were payments of $25 weekly like clock­ aroused by the action of shipown­ work for the past three months and ers in ordering a reduction of still finds it hard to believe. their wages. Although previous "It's wonderful," he admits. maritime unions had all failed, "After 53 years of sailing my time 222 men present signed up in .the is my own and I new organization and collected $34 can count on the in a tarpaulin muster so that they SIU Welfare Plan could rent the Irish-American for benefits I hall for a , more formal meeting never dreamed the following night. about," Giosue added. The vet­ Historio Site eran seaman first The site of the historic Folsom Street meeting is now marked with started shipping a monument of Andrew Furuseth from his native who was chosen leader of the new Italy at the age Giosue union two years later and led the of 16 and finally fight to free both American and had to call it quits last year af­ foreign seamen from virtual serf­ ter -he wound up a long stint on dom. the SS Florida (P&O) in Septem­ Under Furuseth's leadership the ber. He'll be 70 next month. SUP successfully fought through Lives In Tampa major strikes against the ship­ Able to relax now for the first owners and the Californyi Em­ ployers Association. It also pro­ time in years, Giosue lives with his moted the McGuire Act, the White wife, Carmelina, and their two Act, the 1915 Seamen's Act, the children, at their home in this city. Jones Act and other Federal"legis­ He came here soon after arriving in lation which was designed to give the lis as a passenger on an Ital­ seamen full rights. ian ship in 1906. For many years the SUP was ^ After getting to the US, he went affiliated with the old Interna­ to work in a Tampa fishhouse, tional Seamen's Union but when sailed fishing smacks for about ten that organization died, the,SUP years and then during World War took the lead in formation of the I, shipped on Government trans­ Seafarers International Union of ports. He later went back to fish­ North America. ing, shifted to a local ,tugbqat .tor ; Duct commented," but we didn't give up." Finally, Captain Ryan saw that the boat was in trouble and came to the rescue. But although Phil­ lips got the motor working again, it gave way once more right by the stern of the ship. "We were all pretty lucky ourselves then," said Duet. "What with the heavy seas' and the propellor of the ship so close to the lifeboat, we broke three oars and one boat hook try­ ing to keep away from the blade." The third attempt finally turned . '':i - line and tow it around the fishing boat until someone caught it. One of the men did, and the occasion provided the first relief they'd had from bailing the boat by hand since midnight of the night before. Good Day's Work "All in all, it was a good day's work," Duet commented. Sea­ farers who took part were Duet; Scott, the bosun; Herman, Geraci and Bill Sherry, ABs; Merlesema, Cheramie and "Slugger,^ ordinary seamen, and Halim Hambouz, wiper. BOUND LOGS READY Seafarers can now obtain cloth-bound volumes containing all issues of the SEAFARERS LOG in 1954. These volumes are for sale at the cost price of $5.50, and can be picked up at headquarters or ordered by mail. separate volumes were issued for The handsome, bound 1954 each six-month period of 1947 volume is suitable for addition to a ship's library or home bookshelf, and carries all the news and fea­ tures highlighting the events of 1954, both in the SIU and in the maritime industry generally. . The volume contains nearly 600 pages, including all 26 regular is­ sues of the LOG plus all special supplements issued during the year, such as reprints of the Union constitution. Back Volumes, Too In a companion offer, copies of all bound volumes dating back to 1947, up through and including 1954, may be obtained for the package price of $30. This set in­ cludes 10 volumes in all, since and 1948. The latest volume, the 1954 is­ sue, carries, in addition to the reg­ ular news and feature stories, the texts of many official Union re­ ports issued during the year, as well as news of changing develop­ ments- and innovations in the in­ dustry. There are also many per­ sonal articles about Seafarers, their families and their jobs. Either the separate 1954 bound volume or the complete set of 1947-54 'volumes can be^ ordered by mail by using the coupon printed on the back page of this issue. Stocks of bound volumes issued prior to 1947 have already been depleted. six years and eventually, in 1935, began sailing for P&O. Coming out of the old ISU, he joined the SIU here in 1940 when the Union organized P&O. Since then, Giosue has shipped-on a va­ riety of SlU ships out of Tampa and elsewhere, but the P&O Flori­ da run to*Havana has always been a favorite. Even so, he's a frequent visitor to the Tampa SIU hall, where he can always find some of his former shipmates and talk over "the old days." Times have changed a lot, but they always help you. to ap­ preciate what you have today. The oldest son in a family of 13, he was the only one to turn from the family's farm to the sea. Conditions Poor Starting out on the local fish­ ing boats hunting for cod. he later switched to the small coasters that plied betwen the tiny port settle­ ments carrying both passengers and freight. Wages were around $20 a month for a bosun and about $13 for ABs. "They had condi­ tions on ships then that they wouldn't let a dog live under to­ day," he recalls. Hansen didn't get to the US un­ til 1925, but once he tried Ameri­ can ships he stayed with them. He joined with other Norwegian sea­ men in forming the Norwegian Seamen's Union in 1906, threw in with the old ISU when he reached the States and eventually with the SIU when it was founded in 1938. Still hearty," he often makes the trek from his nearby Brooklyn home to SIU headquarters to spend pleasant hours with old friends and reflect on the changes he's seen in the seaman's way of life since he began his sailing career in 1887 at the age of 14. The veteran Seafarer is still amazed at most of them. "I never expected seamen would ever get the kind of benefits we have to­ day in the SIU" is his constant reminder to those who think that "miracles" only happen in fairy tales, •v:;r $> $1 i* With more years of sailing be­ hind him than the estimated life expectancy of most j^eople born 20 years after he was,' Seafarer Ed­ ward K. Hansen reluctantly retired from the sea two years ago but still finds the pull of his lifetime's work an irresistible one. Now 81, Hansen has been receiv­ ing SIU disability benefits since March, <.1 953, when he closed out a record of 65 years as a sea­ man on Scandanavian and Amer­ ican ships. A few months earlier, he had made his last trip as a car­ penter on the Hansen Robin Mowbray (Robin .Line) .:to South African ^•1 ^1 i �Far* Six SEAFARERS Mweh 4. 195S LOG Coast Guard Inspectors Blew This One TRADES BILL PASSES HOUSE—Democrats in the House of Rep­ resentatives delivered the votes to pass President Eisenhower's request for a three-year extension of the Reciprocal Trades Act. The final vote on the bill was by a comfortable margin, but a key preliminary vote was 193 to 192, and a hard fight in the Senate was seen by both sides. 4. PLAN SHORTER PRESIDENTIAL CAMPAIGNS—Both Democrats and Republicans are scheduling their 1956 presidential nominating conventions at later dates than usual. With television available, can­ didates no longer need as much time to stomp the country. The Demo­ crats will meet late in July or early in August in Chicago While Re­ publicans plan a four-day convention in San Francisco on August 20. The GOP plans are based on the assumption that Eisenhower will run again. t Seafarer on board Bi-adford Island, Cities Service tanker, puts hand through hole crew found in No. 3 lifeboat after Coast Guard's annual inspection had okayed the ship. Hole was found right under the Coast Guard inspection plate. Discovery of holes in this and No. 4 lifeboat followed decision of skipper and mate to scrape down too-thick paint and take close look at condition of lifeboats. Hole was then patched as shown. Sea Chest Opens In Baltimore BALTIMORE—The official opening of an SIU Sea Chest retail store here two weeks ago means that all facilities at the new SIU branch hall in this port are no win operation. A steady flow of Seafarer-shoppers has kept the place hopping since then. The retail outlet here is one"*" Sea Chest branch alpng with dles the distribution of slopchests of three outport stores that the other facilities. The Sea Chest on a competitive basis to ships in have been set up by the Sea warehouse in Mobile is now doub­ the area and has representatives Chest since the original one was opened at SIU headquarters in Brooklyn three years ago. Other stores are currently operating at the SIU hall in New Orleans and In Mobile, where construction is continuing on a building next to the present hall which will house It- Visa Cutoff Date Dropped Is-: I?'. • m I Non-immigrant alien seamen who were faced by the problem of obtaining individual visas to the US by June 30 no longer have to worry. The State De­ partment has found this re­ quirement "impractical" at present and has knocked it out of its rules. For the present, the Department will visa crew lists of all non-immigrant aliens who do not have indi­ vidual visas. r*? r:-' • \T I '- t [ tA" .- m Ik' ling as a retail store, also. Spacious Set-Up Much larger and modernistic than the Sea Chest at headquar­ ters, the Baltimore store is located on the second deck of the building, and provides easy access from the street for use by the general pub­ lic. Seafarers , and members of local unions occupying offices in the SIU building can enter either that way or from elSewhei-e in the hall itself. Items carried by the Sea Chest cover a wide range of union-made and brand-name dress clothes and work gear, including suits, coats and shoes, plus jewelry, luggage, radios, phonographs and a variety of other gift selections. The store also carries toiletries, cigarettes and other tobacco products, all sold at prices generally below those at comparable establishments and with a money-back guarantee behind them. In addition to the store sales, the Baltimore Sea Chest also han­ covering the ships with an array of clothing and gift items which are not included in the slopchest itself. Orders for many items can also be filled from a Sea Chest catalogue, in which case delivery is made to the ship along with the regular slopchest order for' the vessel. Union-Sponsored The Sea Chest, as a Union-spon­ sored enterprise, was launched originally to provide Seafarers with a place where they could be sure of obtaining first-quality mer­ chandise at low prices. It was established as a means of enab­ ling Seafarers to bypass other waterfront ship chandlers and slopchest dealers who for years victimized seamen with shoddy, poorly-made merchandise at high prices. Seafarer Pat Murphy, as port manager, is in charge of the Bal­ timore Sea Chest operation. He emphasizes that the general public as well as Seafarers can enjoy sub­ stantial savings by shopping there. Cartoon History Of The SIU 4> 4" ~ H-BOMB DESTRUCTIVE POWER REVEALED-The Atomic Energy Commission has released information on 1954 H-bomb tests showing that 7,000 square miles can be affected by deadly radiation of an Hbomb. This is an area almost as large as the state of New Jersey. Meanwhile the British announced they would build an H-bomb and also are converting electric power plants to atomic energy. 4« 4" 4" FIELD REPORTS ON IMPRISONMENT—Hermann Field, brother of Noel Field, who was imprisoned by Polish Communists, arrived in London and reported on his ordeal. He told of being held in the cel­ lar of a house for five years in solitary without ever getting out in the open. His brother Noel, who was imprisoned in Hungary, has also been released but has elected to stay in that country. 4. 4. ^ CONGRESS ACTS ON WAGE INCREASE—Congress has voted to laise its own salary to $22,500 yearly and give similar increa.ses to Federal judges and the vice-president. There was general agree­ ment on the need for the increase, but criticism of Congress' failure to act on increases for other Government employees. 4- 4> NY POLICE ARREST WIRETAPPERS—Three New York telephone company employees were arrested and $10,000 worth of electronic equipment was seized in a police raid on a wiretap center. The equip­ ment, which need not be connected directly to a phone line, was enough to tap thousands of phones. Some moves are being made to legislate against such indiscriminate wiretapping. .t 4» MORE WITNESSES ADMIT PERJURY IN RED HEARINGS—Two more anti-Communist witnesses for the Government have admitted making false accusations of Communist sympathies. Ttie two, Lowell Watson and Mrs. Marie Natvig, had both testified at a Federal Com­ munications Commission hearing linking Edward O. Lamb, a Toledo publisher, with the Communist Party. Lamb's hearing dealt with his application for renewal of a television station operating license. Sub­ sequently the two witnesses repudiated their testimony, claiming they had been coached by a commission official. Harvey Matusow, first witness to confess false accusations, has amplified his list of misdeeds, including peddling of a blacklist of radio and tv performers. 4^ » US MAY OFFER GRAIN TO RUSSIA—Reports of recurring food shortages in the Soviet Union have prompted a study by the US Gov­ ernment of the possibility of an offer of grain surplus to relieve emer­ gency suffering. Some Administration people fear that the offer would be misunderstood and would only have the effect of strengthening the Soviet government at a critical time. t 4> 4i WEST GERMANS RATIFY REARMAMENT—The West German par­ liament approved the rearming of the country under the North Atlan­ tic treaty by large majorities. Also approved was an agreement on the status of the coal-rich Saar Valley. Spwiliyhi on MSTS • Xo. 84 mmmm. ' is •. 'mm In November. 1950, after a year in operation, the Navy's Military Sea Transportation Service became the subject of a Congressional inquiry. Urging sharp cuts tor MSTS, the SIU pointed to the agency's direct competition with private industry and its cut-rat# j>«y poliQy a^ the oxp^jajs^vf. irition jcamen. ..... • ssj^sEssasaicsa.'s:..' Meanwhile, the US called on the nation's sea unions to draft a program for the industry's mobilization in wartime. The SIU and other sea unions responded with a firm guarantee to supply all the men that were needed through their hiring halls, if experi­ enced men weren't drained off the ships ^y the draft. The unions also noted the two-headed situation caused by appeals for skilled crews to man the ships, when at the same time MSTS was taking over pri­ vate vessels and replacing professional seamen with temporary civil service crews at lower pay. The . prpUem remained .to. plague the Industry, however. �SEAFARERS Marcli 4. 195S SIU NEWSLETTER from WASHINOTON I ' " . I The Eisenhower Administratioil ship transfer policy has plagrued the Maritime Administration in more than one way. With the declining number of American flag Liberty type vessels, the question of replace­ ment or added tonnage has undergone radical changes in the last few months. For example, the question of altering the law is being considered to permit sale from the reserve fleet of Liberty ships for domestic opera- tion should privately owned vessels be unavailable at reasonable prices. i 4" 4" Transcontinental rails and trucks still are causing considerable trouble to the efforts of steamship lines to regain their prewar position in the coastwise and intercoastal trades. The proposition is being advanced that only the offshore carrier can continue in the domestic trade, this as a leg of his foreign trade opera­ tion. However, many domestic lines believe that this is not so, and are convinced that the procedure, if permitted, will not only destroy the existing coastwise vessels, but will drive what remains of the trade into the hands of the rails and trucks. 3^ 4* P«ff« jSerea LOC Fntnre Grim, Saigon On Feverish Bender A city where shopkeepers and office girls play dice on streetcomers, where a police chief boasts of his ownership of a "house of entertainment" with 600 girls, where a $125 camera sells for $600—that's Saigon, the frontier city of the cold war, as seen through the eyes of ••-Seafarers these days. Like Hanoi and Haiphong before it, this Indo-Chinese city may be 4 While some American lines sit back nursing their wounds over being defeated on the St. Lawrence Seaway project, foreign flag carriers are losing no time in becoming entrenched in this trade. While it's true that the US companies lost their battle to defeat completion of the seaway, they are not planning on tbe possibilities of the new waterway. On the other hand, foreign flag carriers are moving in quickly. Sev­ eral foreign lines are forming joint services, such as the Ellerman Fabre Joint Service, in the trade between ports on the Great Lakes (Canadian and US), St. Lawrence River, Eastern Canada, and ports in Europe. 4" 4 4* British flag ships continue to trade freely with Communist nations. As a resuit, the Chinese Nationalist government will bar numerous foreign flag vessels, principally British, from calling at Formosa. Belief is that these ships have sailed into Communist ports on the mainland. In addition to the British ships, those accused include vessels belonging to the Dutch, Swedes and Finns. 4 4 4 Canadian steamship lines will launch a strong effort to receive gov­ ernment subsidy to help them operate again under the Canadian flag and provide a nucleus of maritime personnel. However, this is not the fii-st time they have put up such a campaign. The last time they were defeated. 4 4 4 In recent years the total seaborne trade has been increasing at the rate of about 3 percent per annum, while total world tonnage has been Increasing at the rate of about 4 percent. This, along with other factdrs. Is causing serious problems in the maritime industry throughout the world. A couple of things adding to these difficulties are the increase of flag discrimination and competition resulting from registration of ships under "flags of convenience." 4 4 4 As of December 15, 1954, Greek-owned shipping (both Greek and foreign registry) included 1,234 vessels of 8,333,661 tons afloat, plus 73 vessels of 969,660 tons under construction, making a total of 1,309 ships of 9,305,321 tons. This makes Greek-owned merchant shipping the third largest in the world (after US and United Kingdom), but only 14.9 percent is regis­ tered under the Greek flag. 4 4 4 About 80 percent of ship construction in East German yards is des­ tined for export, with the principal customer being Russia. In addition to Russia, those that will receive the ships include Poland, China, Czeciioslovakia and Bulgaria, all in the Communist bloc. 4 4 4 4 4 4 The US Government maritime agencies are sitting on a very explosive issue at tlie moment—concerning the possibility of rate wars in numer­ ous trade routes. The issue concerns steamship conferences, but some of the conference lines, primarily foreign flag carriers, are undercutting rates and granting rebates to customers. If the US Government throws the foreign flag lines out of the con­ ference, this may mean that the American flag carriers also will have to get out in order to meet rate competition, resulting in the possible dissolution of a number of steamship conferences and an overall rate war between US and foreign lines. Several of the trades affected at the moment include the trade from the US Gulf to the Mediterranean, from the US North Atlantic to the Mediterranean, and several US transpacific trades. A "confidential" report just finished by the US Government reaches the conclusion that the deadweight tonnage of cargo ships now. in operation is adequate for^ replacement programs. This report, which may not be released for some time, takes the view that cargo carriers which will form the US fleet for the next 20 years must be faster than those now in operation. Another suggestion in the report is a trend toward higher stowage factor. 4 4 4 For the past few years there has been a substantial volume decline in exports to most areas, with the entire European region; Caribbean; East Coast of South America; and India, Persian Gulf and Red Sea showing the sharpest drop. Percentage-wise, US vessel participation in our export trade has been sharply reduced since 1951 in all areas except Portugal and- Span­ ish Atlantic and the West Coast of Africa. By contrast our import volume has Increased from almost all major trade areas except the East Coast ^of South America and the entii'e European area. However, our competitive position in the ocean' movement of this traffic has grown weaker in all trades since 1951 with the exception of Central America, Mexico, Portugal and Spanish Atlantic areas. When Indo-China truce was signed last summer. Seafarers on ships in Saigon held a special meeting at tlie city's Continental Palace to discuss the Communist threat hanging heavily over the city. Conditions today appear more tense, according to Seafarer Luis Ramirez, who was In Saigon recently on the Steel Navigator. Photo shows Seafarer Ray Queen, meeting chairman (center), addressing last year's gathering of SIU crewmembers from the Steel Admiral, Alcoa Pioneer, Seacomet and Beauregard. 'Magna Charta' Of Sea 40 Years Old Today Forty years ago on March 4, 1915, President Woodrow Wilson signed into law the Seamen's Act of 1915, known as the magna charta of seamen. Although it has since been amended and improved many times the 1915 Act stands on foreign ship?, at the time, was raise wages all around and im­ out because it freed seamen to prove the competitive position of once and for all from the serfdom of the desertion laws and set up the first real safety and manning pro­ visions the industry had known. Although it was designed to benefit the American shipowner as much as seamen of all nations by enabling foreign seamen to im­ prove their standards, it was bit­ terly fought by shipowners of all nationalities. They feared, rightly so, lliat the law was the upeniug wedge through which seamen could force further improvements of their conditions and obtain more freedom of action. The Seamen's Act, sponsored by Senator Robert M. LaFollette, Sr., was signed into law only after a long and bitter struggle led by Andrew Furuseth. Historical Steps The basic provisions of the act are as follows: • Arrest and imprisonment for desertion of American ships was abolished. The only penalty could be forfeiture of gear and wages. • Foreign seamen in American ports as well as American seamen in US and foi-eign ports could de­ mand half of wages earned and un­ paid. The two provisions, taken to­ gether, meant that seamen were no longer bound to the ship. If the officers were tyrannical, conditions unbearable, food and sleeping quarters inadequate, the seaman was able to leave the ship with­ out being treated like a runaway slave. fa ' , " US ships. Safety Laws Also But the desertion provisions were only one aspect of the 1915 Act. Of equal importance were the safety provisions of the law whicii are the basis for all the interna­ tional safety regulations that have been put in force since then. These regulations called for 65 percent of the deck crew to be able seamen, sufficient numbers of lifeboats, division of crews into watches of equal strength, provi­ sion for minimum foc'sle space and a" variety of other clauses that for the first time made a serious effort to set both professional and safety standards. CG Boosts Cost Of Duplicates The Coast Guard has an­ nounced a new schedule of fees for copying, certifying or searching records of merchant seamen. Beginning April 1, seamen will have to pay $1.50 both for original and duplicate copies of validated papers. The current charge is 75 cents. After the April 1 date, sea­ men will also have to pay 35 cents foi^ duplicate discharges . .and 10 cents for each addi­ tional duplicate. ' engulfed by the Communist tide within a few months. There are few who would be willing to bet on Saigon's future •without a long pull in the odds because the outlook for survival is not considered good. If Saigon does go Communist, it will mean another port and area that will be denied to US ships and seamen. Recently in Saigon aboard the Steel Navigator, Seafarer Luis Ramirez took a look around the city and reports that what he saw was not attractive. In fact, he said, "If there are people who say they like to live in Saigon, even if thej' have a choice to live some­ where else, something must be wrong with he or she somehow. A tense atmosphere is observed there all around and sky-high prices for everything is the order of the day." The newest business enterprise in town, Ramirez says, is "an en­ tertainment house that most of us call the 'stockade,' but its real name is Palais de Glace (Palace of Mirrors). It boasts that it has 600 gii-ls under that one roof only for the purpose of personal en­ tertainment." Chief Has Monopoly This establishment is owned by South Vietnam's police chief. Gen­ eral Le Van Vien who, according to responsible accounts, has an open monopoly of the "entertain­ ment" business in that country. When the Navigator got to Saigon, the local government had "outlawed" gambling and ordered the closing of gambling houses owned by the same General Vien. Nevertheless, Ramirez reports, "gambling is done here almost any place in town, even under a pai-ked trailer using its protecting shade. The fishermen, the barge­ men, rickshaw drivers, even "office girls get together at any corner and then indulge in some dice shooting." As examples of the kind of prices that have to be paid in the inflation-ridden city, Ramirez says that a roll of 35 millimeter Kodachrome goes for $10 (it's about $3.00 in the States, includ­ ing processing) and "a well-used Leica 3F will cost over $600." The going rate for such cameras in the US is $125 and up depending on condition. Pilferage High With prices sky-high and goods scarce, and with 500,000 refugees from Communism in North Viet­ nam flooding the area, pilferage rates as a major occupation. "While unloading a load of old clothes that was sent there by a US charitable organization for use by Vietnam refugees . . . watch­ men were posted to watch the stevedores so that none was stolen. I believe that even then they stole it by the dozens of pieces. "One of the watchmen took off his own pants in order to work in shorts, for the heat there was terrible. At the end when all the stevedores were gone he noticed that somebody stole his own pants, contents and all. He had to stay around until one of the crewmen gave him a pair of pants that could be uied." Ramirez concludes, "Compared to Saigon, Bangkok, to me, is like the brightness of a well-polished diaamnd.",. - �,•V .r. ;'^:i)\': r-r. Pace Eif M SEAFARERS LOG MEET THE mm MARITIME l!-' I Ir: Ife* I^;.,•,•.•• Ir^' March 4. 1955 A A VA VSWA SEAFAR£K More ihlps were launched last year from the world's shipyards than In any year since 1900, according to Lloyd's Register of Shipping. Yards in Great Britain and Northern Ireland combined to account for 26.8 percent of the world total of 1,233 vessels of 5.2 million gross CHARLES A. WELCH, deck engineer tons. West Germany, Sweden, the US and Japan followed in that order, although figures for both the US and Japan showed a drop from 1953 It was literally because of the picked up a paper ashore and About half the American production of 478,984 tons was for foreign fortunes of war that Seafarer found out that all through the trip Question: What mistaken ideas owners ... The Utah Construction Co. has placed an order for a second six deadly Indian cobras were loose large ore carrier to be built by a Japanese shipbuilder. The Japan Steel have you found among shoreside Charles A. Welch started sailing somewhere on the vessel. people concerning merchant sca< with the SIU back in 1943. But Tube Co. is involved in the contract for a 31,400-ton ore-ship. "The ship had taken some cobras once having gone aboard an SIU from India on order for a reptile men? • ship fresh out of a Government farm down in Florida," he said, Storms mixed with fires on two ships endangered the port of Genoa, Ed Martin, MM: I've found that training school, he learned fast and "and six of them got away. After Italy, last week, until the threat of explosions subsided. Fire in a hold near a cargo of chemicals, matches and alcohol had caused the 7,647- most people know about the mer­ never sailed with any other outfit. the payoff they found the snakes chant marine ton Dutch freighter Grootekerk to be towed two miles offshore, while in various parts of the ship. Ona Shortly after his first trip with of them was behind a winch, an­ these days maybe in the harbor itself the 4,147-ton Swedish motorship Nordanland still because of the the SIU, Welch got his Union mem­ other was near the galley and a smouldered following a series of blasts. She was carrying 600 tons of publicity WO got bership book, which makes him an third was up on the captain's deck.". carbide ... Cunard liners carried a quarter of a million passengers last during the war. old-timer with a dozen years of Nobody in the crew had any inkling year, more than the ships of any other company. A total of 939,000 The public today membership behind him. passengers were carried by trans-Atlantic ships in 1954. during the voyage of the presence recognizes the of dangerous traveling companions. 3^ i« 3» Welch was a newly-graduated merchant seaman The Holland-America luxury liner Nieuw Amsterdam will soon lose Out In Orient mai-itime trainee from Hoffman * as a hard-working Its pre-eminence as the largest vessel in the Netherlands merchant Subsequently Welch took part in Island when he was put aboard the guy who's got a marine when the giant whale factory ship Willem Barendsz II puts to organizing some of the tranipship William McClay, a Bull Line Lib­ job to do like sea. The new whaler will have a gross displacement of 44,000 tons com­ erty. He had four months' school­ operators for the SIU. In the everybody else. They really envy pared with 36,235 for the liner, and will be able to double as a regular ing behind him and a shiny, new process, he spent a great deal of tanker during the off season ... A British Admiralty committee testing the life at sea,-though. FOW certificate to show for it. As time out on Far East runs, with the 4 4 4 the seaworthiness of welded ships built in the US, has reported that he put it, "They put me between result that he has spent about five Tom Harrell, OS: Lots of people the boilers and told me I was a years out in the Orient. He doesn't the American vessels compare favorably with riveted ships built in are confused about what we do, fireman." Today though, after 12 care much where a ship goes, by Britain^ because their 3^ 4" 3» ^ years' experience he can handle all and large, but if he could have it American President Lines has agreed to buy four Mariner-class minds are back his way, he'd prefer being on the the engine depax'tment ratings. dry cargo ships from the Government as replacements Tor existing in World War II. old Waterman run to Northern In those early wartime days freighters on its global and Pacific runs. The company made the sole When you ex­ European ports. when ships were busting out all bid in response to a Government offer to sell the ships. Its bid met plain to them "You go to good cities that way over, professional seamen were few the minimum prices set by the Government, a total of $17.8 million. what the mer­ like Bremerhaven, Rotterdam and and far between. Thousands of new Three other Mariners of the 35 originally built have been bought by chant marine is others, and the run was just a men like Welch learned on the job Pacific Far East Lines . . . The 1,088-ton German freighter Hoheweg they automatical­ little over a month which meant under hazardous wartime condi­ sank off the English coast this month after a collision with the 5,375- ly say it's part getting back to the States pretty tions. of the Navy or ton Sunny Prince of Oslo. All 14 crewmen of the German vessel were regularly." Trained At Hoffman Idand Coast Guard. taken aboard the Sunny Prince. "The 34-year-old Seafarer is mar­ They also still believe that old A native of Flushing, Long 4 4" 3[' stuff about seamen with a wife Island, Welsh had gone through ried to an English girl and has one The Giacomo Costa Navigation Co. has ordered a 20,000-ton turbinehigh school and worked a variety child, a daughter. He met his wife powered passenger liner to be built at a Genoa shipyai-d for the South in every port. of shoreside jobs before going to while in England on a Bull Line 4 4 4 American run. Due to be ready in two and a half years, the ship will Marvin White, cook: Most of the the old Hoffman Island training ship, but the marriage was all in be able to carry 1,200 passengers in the flourishing Latin-American time I find people have the notion school off Staten Island. This unit the family, he explained, as his trade . . . For 15 years the flagship of the Greek Line, the Nea Hellas , that being in the was subsequently replaced when wife's brother married one of will return to New York on March 21 as the SS New York. The 17,000merchant marine the Mai-itinie Commission took over Welch's cousins. Just last year, he ton liner is being converted from a three-class liner into a two-class is similar to being the training facilities and opened brought his family over from Eng­ passenger vessel offering 71 first-class and 1,370 tourist-class berths, in the service. the huge Sheepshead Bay training land and settled them in the She will also shift from the Mediterranean to the North Atlantic trade States. They think we base. at the time, as the newer Olympia, present flagship of the line, switches "They ai'e back home now, visit­ have the same After his first run on the McClay to the southern route. ing my wife's family in Newcastle," kind of restric­ to North Africa, Welch sailed a 3* 4 4 tions and have to variety of ships to various war he said. A report of the Delaware River Port Authority says that for the first salute officers zones. Some of them came under Although he holds all the engine time in 100 years, the Delaware River ports now occupy first-place just like in the department ratings for dry cargo enemy bombing attacks but fortu­ among the nation's ports in the handling of import cargoes. The Navy. They're nately, none of them was lost. ships, Welch prefers working deck challenge to the longtime supremacy of NY is based on figures showing Nothing that happened during engineer. Working day work all the NY lagging behind the Delaware River port area by 1.2 million short amazed at our conditions. the war, he says, quite compares time has advantages, he finds, and 4 4 4 tons of imports for the first nine months of 1954. The ports involved Stephen Cohilas, cook: There with the jolt he got as a member of the job offers more interest and are Philadelphia and Chester, Pa.; Camden and Trenton, NJ, and Wilmington, Del. . . . The Boston Metal Co. of Baltimore has bought doesn't seem to be quite as much the Nicaragua Victory crew. This variety than any other in the en­ was one of the Isthmian ships that gine department. The main thing the formerly-SIU-manncd liner Acadia, presumably for scrapping, from misunderthe SIU was organizing in 1946, thnugh, isibat the job is on an SIU Eastern Steamship Lines. Idle for years, the 22-year-old vessel is the standing about The trip itself was uneventful and ship with the wages and conditions merchant seamen last of a once large group of coastal liners operated by the company. it was after the payoff that he that go with it. anymore, al­ though some peo­ ple think it's a - I "tX • 1 f « t "romantic" life and you don't do anything but ACItOSS DOWN 17. Face: Slang 37. This records 19. Pause your tour A three-year contract at the vator Company plant in Yonkers. 1. The briny 1. Turf travel around all 20. Entertain 2. Earlier 4. A member ot 40. Fishing device Farmingdale, New York, plant of The company had threatened to over the world. 21. One of the the crew 3. The "A" In Gras canonical hours 41. Most of the time they know that Republic Aviation has been ap­ close its plant unless economy ». Eiid-of-voyage A&G District 23. It guides a 43. Voyage event 4. Pay proved by plant employees. The could be achieved. it's a job like any other. tourist 45. The albatross 12. Worthless scrap 3. Naples, 24. Rouge is one contract with the International Salerno, etc. 13. Make up for 4 4 4 4 4 4 25. Your sea chest 46. Symbol for 6. Illegally dis­ 14. Fruit drink Jose Aguiar, AB: People are Association of Machinists (AFL) is a good ruthenium tilled whiskey 15. He heips you Pittsburgh's on-again, o.ff-again 27. Toward 47. Part of a race very interested in what we do, calls for five to seven cents in 7. Compass out 28. Attack department store strike is still on 48. A number bearing 17. The SIU Wethourly increases. Approximately because they stiU .30, Where th* 49. Ask for a 8. Musical not* fare but settlement prospects look Plaza Hotel I* think we do 5,000 workers are affected. 9. White hand-out 18. Girl's name brighter with the signing of an 32. Sack SO. Tai»-room brew 10. Girl's nam* 19. New Guinea something like 34. Comparativ* 51. Nothing 11. Money in port agreement between Building Serv­ 4 4 4 ending the Navy or Coast 53. Virginia: Abbr. Tokyo . in 20. Cape ice Employees Local 29 and two 16. Pitcher Lopat Mass. (Puzzle Answer On Page 17) Guard and have "Right to work" laws are under 22. Part of Arabian the same type of attack from another quarter. The major stores. Previously, the sigh­ peninsula 24. Bin of sale: regulations 1 n American Civil- Liberties Union ing of a Teamsters agreement sev­ Abbr. eral weeks ago was believed to wartime. They published an analysis by its board herald 26. "Semper the end of the strike,^ but FiUelis" is ona are surprised of directors which questions the King Cola 29. no agreement was reached with about ^ihe con­ laws as interfering with the civil other unions. Still SO. Make lace on strike are They protect 31. ditions we have liberties of labor organizations. clerks, office employees and res­ us and that we can pick our own job. The ACLU said that the laws were Rico 33. 35. Dry, as wine being used "to obstruct the exer­ taurant workers. 36. Indian tribe 38. Before 39. Plural ending 40. Block up again 42. Compass bearing 43. Drink ot liciuor _ 44. South Sea islander 47. A bar in Liverpool 49. A man from Hamilton 62. Macaw 53. Cape Islands 54. Khan 5S< A lot of ginger 50. Another lima 5T-:.c>i,—l-'iNiX-te 1 f.i I. (Mislsj 1,; 4 4' 4 J. Behar, cook: They think the merchant marine is strictly s Navy-type opera­ tion where every­ body has to wear a uniform and salute officers. Many people have the idea the ships are set up on a military basis and are surprised to learn that we have a strong'dnion: end- ini^y ^pendi^gji^i;ll^asliore don't ii^ave. cise of basic organizing rights," 4 4 4 Two unions in the New York area have agreed to take steps to assist the employers' competitive position. The Hat, Cap and Mil­ linery Workers Union (AFL) has agreed to sidetrack increased pen­ sion fund contributions in favor of a $1 million promotion fund to help the Sale of women's hats. The CIO United Electrical Workers Union has voted to accept changes in ;|)roductioii pi-aaict'S, at the Otis Kle- 4 4 4 The possibility of a strike at eight major New York newspapers was seen In the request by Typo­ graphical Union, Local 6 to the international union for authoriza­ tion to take a strike vote. One of several issues at dispute is /the question of automatic typesetting machinery now being installed in some composing rooms. Efforts to settle another New York news­ paper strike, that of the CIO News­ paper Guild against >4he Brooklyn " Ejigle, have .felled fflr.j uy �mm^^: March 4; 195S SEAFAStERS Pac« Nine LOG SEAFARERS^ LOG * Gimme! He's Still Hanging On!' \ AV • • W / Vol. XVii, No. S March 4. 1955 Published biweekly by the Seafarers International Union, Atlantic & Gulf District, AFL, 67S Fourth Avenue, Brooklyn 82, NY. TeL HYacij^th 9-6600, Cable Address: SEAFARERS NEW YORK. PAUL HALL, Secretary-Treasurer Editor. HERBERT BRAND; Managing Editor. RAY DENISON; Art Editor. BERNARD SEAMAN; Photo Editor. DANIEL NILVA; Staff Writer*, HERMAN ^IHUR. IRWIN SnvACK AL MASKIN; Gull Area Reporter. BILL MOODY. lao . The Whipping Boy Those people in Washington who find kicking somebody around a favorite form of recreation have discovered a new whipping boy in recent months. He is the American seaman who has been the^target of a bewildering variety of proposals attacking his job, his wages, his union, his benefits under law and his very right to earn, a living in his chosen profes­ sion. There's been the Government-approved program of trans­ fers to runaway flags taking thousands of jobs away and providing cutthroat competition for US-flag ships; the con­ tinuing hostility of certain Government officials to "50-50", even though it is the law of the land; the attempt by the Secretary of Health and Welfare to scuttle the seamen's health and welfare; last but not least, the Coast Guard's pro­ filing system that would deprive them of their jobs in some instances for the sins of their fathers. Now the Hoover Commission on Government Reorganiza­ tion has revived the thoroughly-discredited Hobby-Dodge plan to close down the Public Health Service hospitals and discontinue all their medical services to seamen. This is part of a so-called economy program that would also make some slight curtailment in the .Veterans Administration and the Defense Department medical service. Of course, the opera­ tions of USPHS hospitals are a drop in the bucket compared to the.VA and the Defense Department. If economy were the true reason, for indiscriminate ax-slashing there's much more money to be saved elsewhere. Actually the USPHS was singled out simply because the Hoover Commission believes that it is the most vulnerable politically. It would not dare recommend the closing of the VA program for non-service disabilities anymore than it would dare recommend discontinuance of free medical care for Congressmen and Government officials. To buttress a shabby argument, the Commission has used reasoning which smacks of outright dishonesty. The PHS hospitals (and Armed Service hospitals as well) are accused of "inefficiency" and instances cited where they keep patients for longer periods than private hospitals. What the Commission fails to point out, for reasons of its own, is that the patients in private hospitals have homes and families to go to where they can convalesce; while the Seafarer, like the man in the Army, is often a long way from home. He can't convalesce in a YMCA or an Army barracks so he stays in ^ the hospital that much longer. When Mr. Hoover was president during the years of the great depression, the Government was really strapped for revenue. Yet no move was ever made at the time to close the hospitals. It seems odd then, that in these years which Government orators are so fond of describing as a golden era, that the same Mr. Hoover should suddenly find it neces­ sary to trim these services. Those who think that they can get away with closing the hospitals are counting oh the indifference of the unions, the seamen and the maritime industry. It's up to^all parties con­ cerned to prove this thought is a miscalculation. 4" 4" 4" Anniversary Alonth March is a big month for important seafaring anniversa­ ries. This March brings us the 70th anniversary of the Sailors Union of the Pacific, the 101st birthday of Andrew furuseth and the 40th anniversary of the 1915 Seamen's Act. All of them come in the same month within a few days of each other, which is a coincidence. What is no coincidence is the fact that all three are closely inter-related. It was the few himdred poverty-stricken sailors of 1885 who got together and formed the SUP who made it possible for seamen to celebrate these other anniversaries. At the same time, without Andrew Furuseth and without the Sea­ men's Act he fathered, seafafing unions would never have gotten off the ground in the first place. The work these early pioneers and Furuseth did was the basis. Seamen later pick^ themselves off the floor and fin­ ished the job that Was begun in 1885. But everything good that happened to seamen can be dated back to the day that sailing men in San Francisco discovered they could defy the shipowner and win improvements by working together. That's one-fa-jt .that should never be forgotten if seamen are to prosppi' ' - 0ifet*S JLdvicC 5 ..v-nl To Speed Mail To the Editor: I was extremely interested to read the article, in the SEAFAR­ ERS LOG of January 21, about the action the SIU is taking to improve the mail service to the men on the ships, particularly those running foreign. As you kno}v, mail is generally, as important to a seaman as it is to a soldier. It's a great pepperupper, especially when you're far from home. And so I was gratified to read about the SIU's proposals for getting mail to the men faster and more regularly. However, therd^ is a . point I would like to make, and that is the reason' I am writing this letter. According to the LOG article, the SIU is asking all ship operators to It's normal, for a steward and his cooperate in getting mail to the department to get a vote of thanks men by providing accurate lists of their agents in all the ports at for the food and service. Steward which a ship is scheduled to call. A. Higham on the Robin Gray was These lists, as I understand it, given the mark of approval accord­ would be furnished by the com­ ingly but that wasn't all. The crew panies at the time of sign-on. also thanked him for his consid­ Agent Is Culprit eration and care for a dead ship­ Now this is fine, as far as it mate. goes. The trouble is, it only goes It seems that the day junior as lar as the company agents. And my many years of sailing have engineer died on board last Janu­ taught me that It is generally the ary 28 and Steward Higham took company agent who is at the root charge in preparing for the burial of the trouble, when a seaman at sea. All hands agreed that he fails to get mail that should be showed great care and dignity in behalf of the deceased crewmemcoming to him. I think that most of the com­ ber. Higham is an oldtimer who panies I have sailed with have been pretty good about forwarding joined the SIU in its early days in mail abroad. Some of the smaller 1938 down in Mobile. He's from outfits seem to get kind of lazy New York originally but now lives and negligent sometimes. But the in the azalea city. larger outfits, generally, are pretty 4 4 t good about forwarding mail—if It Since the SEAFARERS LOG is is sent to their home office first, always happy to receive photos and that is. stories from the The trouble, as-1 say, generally ships, a sugges­ arises with the company agent, and tion by Seafarer most cases of <ielayed mail deliv­ L. S. Johnston of ery that I have seen have been due the Ocean De­ to agents sitting on the letters and borah deserves a packages instead of delivering mention. Since them as they should. the vessel is new Serves Good Pur^se to the .SIU, John­ ston proposed Having the companies supply that pictures be lists of the agents-would serve a Johnston taken of the ship good purpose because the men's families could then send the letters and the gang aboard her and sent directly to the agents and they in to the LOG. wouldn't have to go a round-about Johnston, known to his shipmates way through the companies' home as Johnny, sails in the deck depart­ offices. ment with the SIU and rates as However, this still wouldn't give one of its original members, join­ the agents any hotfoot or make ing up in New Orleans in Decem­ them get the mail to the men on ber, 1938. He was born in Indiana the ships any better than they do but now makes his home in Goshen Springs, Mississippi. now. I think that, in addition to get­ 4 4 4 ting the companies to supply lists Two other Seafarers^ who rated of their agents, we must get after mention for their all around per­ the companies to get after their formance were G. Grey, 2nd cook agents and see that they get on the on the Alcoa Roamer, and James ball and get the mail to the men G. Rodder, AB and ship's delegate as soon as the ship arrives in port. on the Portmar. Both of these I think It Is also, important to brothers were mentioned in their remind the brothers that they must respective ships' minutes as doing let their families and friends, know a fine job, with the Portmar crew where they are going. I know more noting that it had been a pleasant than one man who shipped out and harmonious trip all around. without telling anybody his destlRodder has been an SIU member nation,-_and then .wondered why sjnpe 1942. jo(3^g ii^ tlm Port pf. thei»iwas no mail ^ iNefv Iforkj Hq|^ New zealpnder -•m ry'd -•|l m\ ^Vote ^ Thanks British West Indies, got his SIU book back in September, 1943 and has been sailing with the SIU steadily since then. 4 4 4 We don't know if the SIU's new steward department procedures have been adopted yet aboard the Alcoa Planter, but in any case, the crew is certainly happy with the feeding system as is. The vote of thanks motion to the department was certainly phrased in enthusias­ tic terms, with the department praised for a "wonderful job." "Everyone," they added, "agrees the food is excellent." Unfortu­ nately, the names of the deserving department members .were not mentioned in the minutes. ^ 4 4 4 It's a little late to be talking about Christmas Dinner menus, but one that came into the SEA­ FARERS LOG office from the Steel Traveler is too unusual to be passed up without mention. Instead of serving what has become the convention al Christmas Dinner — roast turkey — Seafarer Aussie Shrimpton came up with a truly different ship­ board menu. Among other Shrimpton items it offered turtle soup, fillet of pompano, roast gosling with mushrooms, water chestnuts and wild rice, and as a topper, crepe suzettes aflame with brandy. For those who have more conventional food tastes there was also jumbo shrimp cocktail, baked Virginia ham, mince pies, plum pudding and ice cream. The whole meal was finished off by a fruit buffet, cold beer and Swedish punch. Putting out this kind of a meal for the holiday and setting high standards of quality for the voyage earned Shrimpton and his depart­ ment a hearty vote of Ahanks from all hands. Shrimpton, as the name indi­ cates, is a native of Australia, but now has his. home in the bluegrass country, Lexington, Ken­ tucky. He got his SIU book in Bosin.J94S .and whqn not sailing ~ lief stewai^ is-ii 'h«n<^ man - �I.:-...-..-..,:: rv^v^^'f"'"- Page Ten SEAFARERS "••• ••• : •v.-, •'. •-' '.T.Vt?:- March 4, 1955 LOG • "y.h- The Revolution in Coc A flashy comeback by what appeared to be a doA\ and-out industry is shaping up these days. J The seriousness of the effort is evidenced by the fej that shipowners, truck fleet operators and railroad d ficials are talking to each other again, overlooking tl feuding and sniping of the past. What is happening ? that the near-defunct coastwise shipping industry h\ come to the realization that an alliance with the ra| roads and truckers offers the quickest solution to its o^ problems. The others, in turn, foresee sufficient add revenue to justify the get-together. Generally, the decline of coastal shipping came the start of World War II, when the Government tc { over many of the ships as an emergency measure a enemy subs played tag with the rest.~ The railro^ and truckers profited, easily absoi-bing most of 1, traffic. When the war ended in 1945, coastal ship (, erators were unable to recoup what they had lost, addition, post-war Government aid programs_ complete changed the character of US merchant shipping a spurred the growth of foreign trade. The end-product of all this is the current empha on ''roll on-roll off" dry cargo operations and the use Plexiglass model of a prototype "roll on-roll off' ship for the MSTS shows how military vehicles could he loaded and discharged from the ship in a mat­ ter of a few hours. The design features ports at the stern and sides for moving vehicles aboard under their own power and ramps at key poiiUs to move traffic continuously to the various hold decks. A special complement of drivers would be carried to handle actual movement of the vehicles. elevators would be provided in each vehicle hold to bring the drivers up from the various hold levels to the second deck where traffic comes aboard. The ship would have all machinery amidships and wopld have conventional cargprhsiidlilif for.irahsporting general cargo also.; . �March 4, 1955 ®[?[? SEAFARERS ZZ7 stwise Shipping LOG Face Eleveii I I I I I I I I I -J ships to move rolling stock between coastal ports. Neither of these ideas for ship operations are new, however. A pioneer in the field, SlU-contracted Seatrain Lines has been in the business of moving loaded freight cars by ship for a quarter of a century. Its service, started in 1929, now offers six specialized vessels, each capable of carrying 100 fully-loaded railroad freight cars between its New York terminal at Edgewater, NJ, and Southern and Gulf ports. . , Principally a post-war innovation, trailer-ship op­ erations, up until now have not been carried out on spe­ cially-constructed vessels. Modified Liberty-type ships and converted LSTs have been put to use to carry loaded truck trailers on these runs linking coastal ports, some inland ports and Puerto Rico and the mainland. The advantage claimed for both trailer-ships and trainships is that once cargo is stored, it never has to be handled again until it reaches its destination. The net effect it to cut shipping costs and time. Costs run high and continue to climb. Time is a valuable consideration for most shippers. ' Among SlU-contracted companies, McLean is the first SIU operator in this field. Seafarers, therefore, will play a big part in the coming "revolution" and the campaign to put coastwise shipping back on its feet. Meanwhile, the Government is also showing an active interest in the field. It has already come up With a de­ sign for a new "Turnpike" class vessel for carrying truck-trailers commercially. Furthermore, the Navy's Military Sea Transporta­ tion Sej'vice has the blueprints of a prototype defense vessel which is said to be almost ready for the builder. This ship would carry both wheeled and tracked vehicles and would be designed to provide for their rapid loading and discharge under" their own power. It would have the added feature of conventional cargo-handling gear for transporting general cargo as well. MSTS would Ibe able to move its vehicle cargo on and off the ship by means of side and/or stern ports. Trailers Not Self-Propelled Similar principles would be applied to most of the proposed "roll on-roll off" trailer-ships, except that in these, the truck-trailers would be not self-propelled. In­ stead, the design of the ships would fix a traffic pattern enabling truck cabs-to come aboard along with the trailer while loading, and independently when discharging. One of the basic criticisms of the entire trailer-ship operation, however, is what happens when 200 or more Dowerless trailers are put ashore. The system requires a:rge loading terminals in prime waterfront areas which are already crowded and heavily trafficked. The answer,, its supporters say, is in public financing by local port authorities, which would be repaid by rental payments. Seatrain experienced the same kind of difficulty in setting up its own operation. The problem of getting fully-loaded 65-foot railroad freight cars aboard a ship is not easily overcome. But the special design of the ships and terminals in key ports provided the answer. Now there is a design for a two-decked train-ship which can load and unload simultaneously through bow and stern doors right at regular car float terminals which many harbors already have. The innovation elimi­ nates the need for special terminals and boasts the added feature of easy conversion for carrying truck-trailers. ' At top, a view of the special Seatrain terminal at Edgewater,*^NJ, with the SIUmanned Seatrains Texas and Havana alongside. Elaborate hoist apparatus lifts loaded railroad freight cars aboard and deposits them on inlaid track aboard the ships. Below, one of the Seatrains shown in the role of an aircraft and vehicle carrier during World War II. Unique construction of the ships enabled them to play vital war role. Breakdown sketch of a Seatrain showing how the cars are loaded on nearly a mile of standard railroad track spread over four decks. The insets illustrate how cars are locked into place (top) and the elaborate loading and unloading apparatus (bottom). Seatrain operates six ships between New York (terrninal at Edgewater, NJ), Sa^ ?^'''>^^•'vahnah, New Orleains aind Tex^s City. Each can carry 100 fully-ldaded freight cars. .-,-V - 3-; ,••1; •SI I 11 0 • -.mI V - •'ml �'•••> .1- ". ' - VA- PMX6 Twelve SEAFARERS Mareli 4,1981 LOG PORTREPORXS Mass., and the Union sent a floral Lake Charles: says that it's by all odds the best Miami: wreath. in the business. Recently he quali­ In closing, we would like to re­ fied himself for the special disabil­ port that quick work by the crew ity benefit of $25 a week and is and offiqers of the Coast Guard very happy about the prompt and cutter East Wind prevented ex­ efficient service he got, since he Shipping held Its own in this plosion of a magazine of live am­ Shipping here just about held Its Shipping in this port was fair applied for the benefit only a short during the past two weeks. We time ago. Incidentally, Brother port during the past two weeks and munition when a spectacular fire own during the past two weeks. had 91 men registered in all three Stoll comes by the nickname we were able to ship quite a few swept the ship's engine room at During this period we had 40 men departments and were able to ship "Preacher" because he can take off ABs on offshore ships and put her berth at Castle Island on Feb­ only 37, but we also obtained on almost any subject and talk some replacements on the Ponce ruary 20. The fire was brought registered and shipped 26, so that we still have plenty of men, in all and Florida. We had 22 men 'under control after 2Vi hours. standby jobs for 35 men, so this about it for hours. James Sheehan Among the other oldtimers now registered in all departments and. ratings, to meet any foresee^able brought to 72 the number of men Boston Port Agent on the beach are Harry Galphin shipped 20. put to work during this period. future calls. During these two weeks we paid 3) t t The outlook for the next two Clyde Laseter, Vince San Juan, A. Calling in here during these past weeks is just fair as we have only (Jukey) Cohen, A. (Jack) Bullard off the Compass (Compass), Ponce two weeks were the Council Grove, Jose Rosa, E. M. (Bud) Bryant and (Ponce) and Florida (P & O). The Philadelphia: one payoif sched­ ? Cantigny, Brad­ Claude R. West. Florida signed on while the Com­ uled. This is the ford Island, Chi­ In the'USPHS hospital here are pass transferred to a foreign flag. Longview Vic­ wawa,. Salem J. (Tommy) Moore, better known In transit were the Ponce tory (Victory Maritime, Govr as "the Scoco kid"; Jimmie (Ponce), Fairport, Chickasaw and Carriers), due in eminent Camp (Georgia Boy) Littleton, Rufus L. De Soto (Waterman) and Bradford here from the and Bents Fort, This port has just experienced Fields, Ernest Webb, Angelo Mar­ Island (Cities Service). Far East. all of Cities Serv­ a couple of weeks of prosperity, tins, John Henry Morris, A. D Eddie Parr At this writing ice. Over in Port with considerably more men Edenfield, Louis C. Miller, Alex­ Miami Por.t Agent we have not Arthur, Tex., we shipped than were registered. ander C. Copa, Robert Myc = and signed on any 3) 3) 4 had the Winter And, from all indications, this sit­ Carl F. Kumrow, that well-known, ships for the Wanka Hill (Cities Serv­ Boston: uation should continue well into Swafford colbrful pearl diver. Formosa area ice), Republic next week. E. B. McAuIey and we will just have to wait and During the past two weeks we (Trafalgar) and Michael (Carras), Hq. Representative see what the future brings. paid off three ships here, signed and in Orange, Tex., we had the During the past two weeks we Val Chem (Valentine Tankers). t 3) on five and had six in transit. paid off the Alawai (Waterman), The payoffs were the Maiden At our last meeting. Brother Coeur d'Alene Victory (Victory Houston: Shipping here in Beantown was Creek (Waterman), Trojan Trader R. M. Thompson, who sails in the Carriers) and Ocean Lotte (Ocean fair during the past two weeks (Trojan) and Portmar (Calmar). engine department, was chairman. Transportation). In transit were and" the outlook for the future These three ships signed on and Brother S. C. Slaid, who sails in the Massmar (Calmar) and Raphael is about the same. also the Carolyn and Ines (Bull). the deck department, was record­ Semmes and John B. Waterman During the past two weeks we In transit were the French Creek ing secretary. Both men did a fine (Waterman). Phenomenal is the word for paid off the Salem Maritime, Can­ and Winter Hill (Cities Service), job. Ocean Lotte In Shipyard (Waterman), Robin Satis On Deck shipping in this port and we have tigny and Bradford Island (Cities Chickasaw The Ocean Lotte ran aground cleaned the beach of men and are Service) and the , Queenston Clray and Robin Kirk (Seas Ship­ For our Seafarer of the Week we several times during February and now scraping the bottom of the Heights (Seatrade). These four ping) and Arlyn (Bull). have selected Brother J. Swafford, ships signed on again and in Is now in the shipyard. She is barrel. I would like to say, how­ All the payoffs and sign-ons a deck department man. Brother expected to come out ^ound ever, that by the time this report transit were the Michael (Carras), were in good shape. Swafford i has been in the Union March 7. A . S. Cardullo appears in the SEAFARERS LOG, Bents Fort (Cities Service), Seafor quite some time, and is now tiger (Colonial), Antinous and De Oldtimers on the beach here in­ things may be back to normal. We Philadelphia Port Agent waiting for a coastwise tanker run. clude H. Murphy, W. Kramer, J. have been telling the members Soto (Pan-Atlan.), Ann Marie He says he is mighty pleased with t. (Bull), Steel King Sampson, W. Cressman and J. that the good shipping this port the new tanker agreement and fig­ (Isthmian) and Wilmington: Hunt. In the hospital are S. Jo- has been enjoying has been a ures on buying himself another Robin Kirk (Seas hannessen, K. Wanka, O. Rosen­ seasonal thing and could return at cow or two just as soon as he gets Shipping). berg, W. Johnston and V. Ming. any time to the Bloomfield-Seahis back pay. Brother Swafford We had no Jeff Gillette train in-transit-replacement situa­ comes from Georgia but says he beefs of any kind Seattle Port Agent tion that normally prevails here. likes Louisiana very well. on any of these But the good shipping has con­ t 3> t We have no brothers in the hos­ ships. Shipping in this port has been tinued right along and from all Savannah: Our selection on the slow bell during the past pital here that we know of, and indications the half dozen Libertys for a typical SIU two, weeks, with no payoffs or everything else Is pretty quiet, bound for this port to load grain man this week sign-ons, and none are due during both on the local labor front and MacQueen will keep the pot boiling for some as far as the weather is concerned. is Charles Mac- the coming two weeks. time yet. Queen, who is known to his friends The danger of another flood, that Despite this, shipping is holding Four Ships Pay Off and shipmates as "Scotty." Mac- its own, due to the in-transits, and we wrote about the last time, has Here in Savannah the Retail During the last two weeks we Queen, who. coihes from Arling­ now passed, and although it has Clerks International Association, paid off the Alcoa Planter (Alcoa), ton, Mass., sails In the steward de­ we do not have many men on the been raining and cold for some beach at this time. Local 1604, is involved in a boycott Robin Goodfellow (Seas Shipping), partment and specializes in being The in-transits during the last time, it now looks as if the weather action against the Yachum and Liberty Flag (Gulf Cargo) and topnotch saloon messman. He report period were the Massmar, man has decided to give us some Yachum Dry Goods Co., and some Gulfwater (Metro). has been an SIU member for Alamar and Calmar (Calmar); fishing days and quite a few of the SIU men are assisting them in These four ships signed on again about a dozen years and is a good Madaket, Yaka, JoHn B. Waterman boys are casting their eyes in the their picketing of this firm. The while in transit were the Alex­ Union man. and Raphael Semmes (Waterman); direction of the lake. RCIA has had a contract with this andra (Carras), Alcoa Pegasus Leroy Clarke Oldtimers now on the beach in­ Alice Brown (Bloomfield); Alcoa firm for about four years, but the (Alcoa), Steel Fabricator and Sleel clude J. Connolly, R. Murphy, V. Lake Charles Port Agent Pioneer (Alcoa); Ocean Deborah boss suddenly decided that he Maker (Isthmian), Fairland (Water­ 3) 3>. 3> would have nothing more to do man), Seatrains Texas, Savannah Tocco and P. Norton. F. Alasavich (Ocean Transportation), and Stony with organized labor and has re­ and New Jersey (Seatrain), Archers and A. Hancock are patients in Creek (American Tramp). Norfolk: I would like to say that I am fused to sit down and talk over Hope and Cantigny (Cities Service) the Brighton Marine Hospital. Brother Brown Buried glad to be back on the job after the situation with the union em­ and Edith (Bull). Funeral services for Brother my trip to the drydock. ployees in his store. With our as­ A. (Frenchy) Michelet Allan G. Brown were held Thurs­ Ernest B. Tilley sistance, the picketline is causing Houston Port Agent day, February 17, in Hyannis, Wilmington Port Agent a drop of about 55 percent in the firm's business. There has been a definite pick­ As for shipping, we had only one up in shipping in this port and payoff and sign-on here during the the shipping picture here jiow past two weeks, looks better than it has for more but we had eight than a year. ships In transit During the past two weeks we and we feel ship­ paid off five ships, signed on four ping can be con­ and had eight in transit. Shipping Figures February 9 to February 22 sidered fair. The The payoffs were the Logans outlook for the REG. REG. REG. TOTAL SHIP. SHIP. SHIP. TOTAL Fort (Cities Service), Greece Vic­ next two weeks is PORT DECK ENGINE S'U'EW. REG. ENG. STEW. SHIPPED tory (South Atlantic), Shinnecock DECK about the same. Boston 14 6 25 5 9 7 18 2 Bay (Veritas), Gateway City (Wa­ The Bents Fort New York terman) and Transatlantic (Pacific 88 75 100 263 69 69 79 217 (Cities Service) Cohen Waterways). Philadelphia 28 18 34 38 32 16 62 104 paid off and The Logans Fort, Greece Vic­ Baltimore signed on here and in transit were 79 56 71 209 72 63 59 191 tory, Shinnecock Bay and Trans­ the Southland and Southstar Norfolk 12 10 12 17 16 45 9 31 atlantic signed on again. (South Atlantic), Angelina (Bull), Savannah 14 10 5 3 18 8 3 3 In transit were the Steel De­ Azalea City (Waterman), Chiwawa Tampa ^.... 18 11 48 19 48 16 12 20 signer, Steel Artisan and Steel and Logans Fort (Cities Service) Mobile 41 Voyager (Isthmian), Alcoa Runner 48 and Seatrains Georgia and Louis­ 49 138 27 34 34 95 and Alcoa Pointer (Alcoa), Coe iana (Seatrain). New Orleans 57 156 60 74 191 51 45 60 Victory (Victory Carriers) and 'Preacher' Gives Praise Houston 46 28 41 28 39 108 82 106 Southland (South Atlantic). The For our Seafarer of the Week 17 ) Seattle 40 37 10 31 10 20 91 Steel Voyager called twice. we have selected Brother Walter San Francisco 52 20 22 18 58 15 15 20 Stoll, who is much better known All of these ships were in good 17 as "Preacher.", A real oldtimer. 'Wilmington 7 6 5 6 shape. 8 18 8 Brother. :Stoll has higb» praise for ! o;(l <iBVn'Aeee':"Plan and : 409 9'i Seattle: Shipping Holds Own; Flood Throat Passos Replacements Taken By Pence And Flerida Standby Jobs Boost Employment Total Here Conlinuance is Seen in Port's Prosperity Shipping Galled Fair, Oullcck Seen The Same 'PhenomenaT Shipping Cleans Off The Beach In-Transit Galls Make Shipping Bold Its Own Retail Clerks' Beef is Aided By Seafarers 'Definite Pick-Up' Is Neted In Shipping �SEAFARERS March 4, 1955 LOG Pare Thirteea ••Qes PORTMUSPORTS Baltimore: New Sea Chest OuHel Opened In Hall Here This week our Sea Chest retail outlet was opened in this port and we know that the members who visit this beautifully laid out store will be very pleased with the merchandise which it stocks. Our new cafeteria, likewise, is doing a bang-up job with clean, wholesome food tastefully pre­ pared, and prices such that all members can eat at a minimum cost to themselves. As some ^of you fellows know, we are applying for a change of license for the Port O' Call, and we believe the need for this is ap­ parent. We would again like to emphasize that we rely on the members' cooperation to maintain the high standards of service of the Port O' Call, which is some­ thing we may all well be proud of, and which is fast becoming the talk of the town. Shipping Picks Up Shipping during the past two weeks picked up a little bit but not enough to pull us out of the doldrums. However, we are hop­ ing to have a ship lhat has been in for repairs crew up in the very near future. And, with spring on the way, we are looking for a bang-up shipping season. During the past two weeks we paid off 20 ships, signed on 13 and had 13 ships call in transit. The payoffs were as follows: Suzanne, Evelyn and Mae (Bull); French Creek and Archers Hope (Cities Service): Seatiger (Colo­ nial); Seamonitor (E X c e 1 8 i 0 r)f Robin Gi-ay (Seas Shipping); Steel Voyager (Isth­ mian); Fairport (W a t • r man); Mankato Victory I (Victory Car­ Sawyer riers); Oremar, Yorkmar and Bethcoaster (Calmar), and Santore, Marore, Baltore, Feltore and Chilore (Ore). ,The Oremar paid off twice. Signing on were the French Creek (Cities Service); Seatiger (Colonial); Steel Voyager (Isth­ mian); Seamonitor (Excelsior); Oremar, Yorkmar and Bethcoaster (Calmar), and Santore, Marore, Baltore, Feltore and Chilore (Ore). The Oremar signed on twice. In transit were the Alcoa Puri­ tan and Alcoa Runner (Alcoa); Iberville and Chickasaw (Water­ man); Carolyn, Ines and Suzanne (Bull); Steel Maker, Steel Advo­ cate and Steel Executive (Isth­ mian); Winter Hill (Cities Service); Bethcoaster (Calmar), and Trojan Trader (Trojan). Beefs Generally Minor The beefs on these ships genci-ally were minor and the only things pending at the moment are a couple of clarifications with the quartermaster section of the Ore Line vessels. We are confident these will be straightened out very shortly. All of our crews did fine jobs in bringing their ships iii for the payoffs; all sign-ons, too, were smooth. The in-transit ships were also in fine shape. This week we intend to be a lit­ tle different and present our "Man " of the Month"—Chai'les R. Sawyer, who has beeq a member of our or­ ganization since December, 1945, and who recently became a full bookmember. He has this to say about the the years with the Seafarers I have always tried to do a bang-up job and I consider the SIU tops in the maritime field. I urge'all of the men coming into our organization to always attend the meeting so that they will be fully Informed on all the behefits that they may derive from the various activities at these meet­ ings." We wish Charles years of good sailing. With spring upon us, let's not forget the boys who are on the in­ side looking out. Perhaps a cheery note or word from you will give them the urge to perk up and be among you again. The address is USPHS Hospital, Wyman Park Drive, Baltimore 18, and the brothers now confined to it are as follows:— W. Simmons, E. Plahn, E. Joyner, A. Willis, J. Hannay, B. Buzbee, G. Williams, L. Dwyer, R. Kirkwood, E. DeLaCruz, R. Hawes, J. Alstatt, R. Scales, O. Jones, J. Bokus, B. Balcer, G. Goodwin, T. Mungo, F. Forte, C. Leggett, L. Firlie, D. Robinson, R. Solheim, E. Marsh, G. Little, R. Littleton, J. Schultz, N. Jackson, R. McKnew, G. Oliver, S. Musco and G. Glaze. Earl Sheppard Baltimore Port Agent 4« 4" 4" San Francisco: Waterman's Choctaw, YoungAmericaSignOn Shipping was slow in this port during the past two weeks and the outlook for the future is the same. We had no payoffs during the past two weeks and none are in sight for the next two weeks. During the last two weeks we signed on the Young America and Choctaw (Water­ man). In transit were the Raph­ ael S e m m e s, M a d a k e t and John B. Water­ man (Waterman), Massmar (Cal­ mar) and Ocean Deborah (Ocean Transportation). Dunn Among the men on the beach now are J. Dunn, C. N. McKee, F. Hills, C. Demers, C. Shirley, J. Jacobson, B. Tolbert, C. Nangle and R. Shaynick. In the hospital are M. Meigussoglou, O. Gustavsen, R. Lam­ bert, C. I^eumaier, J. Perreira, P. S. Yuzon, E. L. Brown, G. J. Fletcher, F. S. Raylor, C. McBrien and Max Byers, Tom Banning San Francisco Port Agent New Orleans: Port's Hospital List Is Lowest In Months We don't know whether it is the climate or the general Mardi Gras atmosphere that prevailed here during the last few days, but the Npw Orleans hospital list contains fewer names than it has in months. We hope this condition is Indicative of a permanent trend. Four brothers were admitted to the USPHS hospital here since our last report. They were Sam Cope, Hal Ellis, Glen Curl and John P. Doyle. They have our best wishes for a speedy and complete recov­ ery. Charles Brady, Daniel Rucker, Billy Ward and Thomas Maynes are still confined to . the hospital, but are reported 4o be convalesc­ Curl ing in good fashion. Joachin Saik, Jack Oosse, Al­ fredo Garcia and Lionel Miller have been discharged from the hospital and hope to be ready to ship soon. Shipping has been fair here. During the last two weeks we had 7 payoffs, 2 sign-ons and 18 ships in transit. Payoflfs were aboard the Del Mar, Del Sol and Del Aires (Mis­ sissippi), the De Soto and Ibervillp (Waterman), the Steel Executive (Isthmian) and Seanan (Stratford). The Del Mar and the Seanan signed on. Ships that called in transit were the Cavalier, Pennant, Planter, Clipper, Pegasus and Pilgrim (Alcoa), the Seatrains Georgia and Louisiana (Seatrain Lines), the Hurricane, Fairland, Monarch of the Seas, Warrior and Claiborne (Waterman), the Steel Executive, Steel Fabricator and Steel Maker (Isthmian), the Arlyn (Bull) and the Neva West (Bloorafield). Lindsey J. Williams New Orleans Port Agent t> New York: SIU, Go's To Clarify Tankor Pact Wording I would like to inform the mem­ bers that since all of the tanker companies have now signed the SIU's standard tanker agreement, we expect to get together with them in the next couple of days and clarify those sections of the agreement where there have been disputes due to misinterpretations of the contract. This is the same thing that has been done in the past on the freighter agreement, and as soon as these clarifications have been agreed on by both sides, they will then be printed and made a part of the tanker agree­ ment. I would like to make it clear that we do not intend to change the wording of the agreement in any way, but merely to clarify the intent and meaning of the word­ ing. We believe that by doing this it wili make for much smoother sailing for the crews riding these tankers, and also aid the patrol­ men in paying them off. Shipping Is Good Shipping has been good for all ratings in all three departments during the past two weeks. And, according to the schedule of ships due in, it should remain good dur­ ing the coming two weeks. We paid off 15 ships during the past two weeks, signed 2 on for­ eign articles and serviced 19 intransits. All of these shijis were in good shape with only minor beefs which were squared away aboard ship. We also had two ships come out of lay-up and take on full crews last week, so that gave shipping an added and welcome boost. These ships were the Jean and Dorothy, both Bull Line ships on the Is­ lands run. Ships Paying Off The following were the ships which paid off: Paoli, Council Grove and Royal Oak (Cities Serv­ ice); Steel Maker and Steel Advo­ cate (Isthmian); Edith and Emelia (Bull); Val Chem (Valentine Tank­ ers); Seatrains New York, Georgia and Texas (Seatrain); Topa Topa (Waterman); Robin Tuxford and Robin Kirk (Sens Shipping), and Ocean Dinny (Ocean Transporta­ tion). The Robin Hood (Seas -Shipping) and Coe Victory (Victory Carriers) signed on, while in transit were the Chickasaw, Hurricane and Antinous (Waterman); Frances and Elizabeth (Bull); Alexandra (Carras); Seatrains Savannah, Louisi­ ana, New York and New Jersey (Seatrain); Val Chem (Valentine Tankers); Steel Designer and Steel Voyager (Isthmian); Alcoa Puritan (Alcoa); Seatiger (Colonial); Greece Victory (South Atlantic), and Yorkmar, Portmar and Beth­ coaster (Calmar). Claude Simmons Asst. Sec.-Treasurer sru MAij. ommxoxm. SIU, A&6 District BALTIMORE 1216 E. Baltimor* St. Earl Sheppard, Agent EAstern 7-4900 BOSTON 276 State, St. James Sheehan, Agent Richmond 2-0146 HOUSTON 4202 Canal St. A. (Frenchy) Michelet, Agent.. Freston 6558 LAKE CHARLES. La 1419 Ryan St. Leroy Clarke. Agent HEmlock 6-5744 MOBILE 1 South Lawrence St. Cnl Tanner. Agent HEmlock 2-1754 NEW ORLEANS 523 BienviUe St. Lindsey WUUama. Agent -Magnolia 6112-6113 NEW YORK 675 4th Ave.. Brooklyn HYacinth 8-6600 NORFOLK 127-129 Bank St. Ben Rees. gent MAdison 2-8834 PHILADELPHIA 337 Market St. S. CarduUo. Agent . Market 7-1635 SAN FRANCISCO 450 Harrison St Tom Banning, agent Douglas 2-5479 Marty Breithoff. West Coast Representative PUERTA de TIERRA. PR Pelayo 51—La 9 Sal CoUs. Agent Phone 2-5996 SAVANNAH g Abercorn St Jeff Morrison. Agent Phone 3-1728 SEATTLE 2505 1st Ave. Jeff GlUatte. Agent-. « EUrott 4334 WILMINGTON. CaUl lf05 Marine Ave. Ernest Tiliey, Agent Terminal 4-2874 HEADQUARTERS .. .675 4th Ave.. Bklyn. SECRETARY-TREASURER Paul HaU ASST. SECRETARY-TREASURERS Robert Matthews Jee Algina Claude Simmons Joe Vulpian WUIia'm HaU SUP HONOLULU FORT WILLiAM....118Vk Syndicate Ave. Ontario Phone: 3-3221 PORT COLBORNK 103 Durham St. Ontario Phone: 5591 TORONTO. Ontario 272 King St. E. EMpire ^-5719 VICTORIA, BC ei7V* Cormorant St. Enipire 4.531 VANCOUVER. BC 298 Main St. Pacific 7824 SYDNEY. NS 304 Charlotte St. Phone 6346 BAGOTVILLE. Quebec 20 Elgirf St. Phone: 545 THOROLD. Ontario 52 St. Davids St. CAnal 7-.3202 QUEBEC 113 Cote De La Montague Quebec Phone; 2-7078 SAINT JOHN 177 Prince William St. NB Phone: 2-5232 16 Merchant St. Phone 5-8777 PORTLAND .022 N. W. Everett St. Beacon 4330 RICHMOND. CALIF 257 5th St Phone 2590 SAN FRANCISCO 450 Harrison St. ^ Douglas 2-8363 <7reat Lakes District SEATTLE 2505 1st Ave. Main 0290 ALPENA 133 W Fletcher WILRUNGTON 505 Marine Ave. Phone: 12:i8W Terminal 4-3131 BUFFALO. NY 180 Main St. 734 Lakeside Ave.. NE NEW YORK 675 4tb Ave., Brooklyn CLEVELAND Phone: Main 1-0147 HYacinth 6-6600 Phone; Cleveland 7391 DETROIT 1038 3rd St. Canadian District Headquarters Phone: Woodward 1-6857 531 W. Michigan St. MONTREAL 634 St. James St. West DULUTH Phone; Melrose 2-4110 PLateau 8161 SOUTH CHICAGO. 3261 K.,.92nd St. Phone: Esses 5-2416 Mobile: Sea Chest-Bee Room Opening Draws Hear By our next meeting we hope to have a definite date for the open­ ing of our new combined recrea­ tion room and Sea Chest. In the meantime, the members' sugges­ tions for improving the recreation­ al facilities are being given careful consideration and will bfe followed wherever practicable. As for shipping, it can be consid­ ered good during the past couple of weeks and we wqre able to send 95 men to regular jobs and 116 to various relief jobs in and around the harbor. During this period we bad 11 payoffs, 6 sign-ons and 6 ships in transit. The payoffs were as fol­ lows: Beauregard, Warrior, Wild Ranger, Monarch of the Seas and Claiborne (Waterman) and Alcoa Clipper, Alcoa Pilgrim, Alcoa Pointer, Alcoa Corsair and Alcoa Roamer (Alcoa). The Wild Ranger, Beauregard, Alcoa Pilgrim, Alcoa Pointer and Alcoa Roamer signed^ on again and in transit were the Del Valle (Mississip­ pi), Ocean Nimet (Ocean Transpor­ tation), DeSoto and Iberville (Waterman), SeaJames (Stratford) and Alcoa Planter (Alcoa). Prospects for the coming two weeks also look fairly good, with the following ships due to hit the port either for payoff or in transit: Monarch of the Seas, Claiborne, Golden City, Arizpa, Antinous and Chickasaw (Waterman) and Alcoa Patriot, Alcoa Partner, Alcoa Clip­ per, Alcoa Pennant, Alcoa Polaris and Alcoa Cavalier (Alcoa). One of the Seafarers on the beach is Roy James, who joined the Union in 1947 in New York and has been sailing steadily since then. Roy, who has been shipping out of Gulf ports for the past four years, makes his home in Galves­ ton. He Is single and his favorite sport is fi.shing, but he says he also got a big bang out of the Mardi Gras, which started right after he hit the beach. After considering all the various benefits which the Welfare Plan offers, Roy says it is hard to pick an outstanding one since they are all so good. How­ ever, he says that personally he likes the vacation pay, which cer­ tainly comes in mighty handy when shipping slows up. A few of the other oldtimers on the beach now are H. Dunn, A. Lynn, R. Cooper, D. Stokes, P. Simmons, J. Wilkerson, B. Overstreet, C. Smith, H, Curry, R. Matthews and R. Thomas. Cal Tanner Mobile Port Agent 4" 4" i Tampa: Shipping Figures Top Port's Regislrallons The business of this port is in good shape. Shipping has been holding its own and during the last report period we had 26 men registered and shipped 28. We had no payoffs or sign-ons during this period but in transit were the Warrior, Iberville and De Soto (Waterman), Cuba (P&O), Chiwawa (Cities Service) and Marie. Hamil (Bloomfield). 5 • Bennie Gonzales ^ ^ .... ...» Hq.-RCpreseiitatDre'^':' .. - -i'. • y I " • i' �4I2®®L r.rW'«»i"?^r?«« MEERS tO°' day^Tlrt^....""! RrOOKlU'* If it's not, ®"JgJJer "5^^ the uortion, then you'U Tthat half the fun m part finding out that n covered white P^J^^^hite light is photography question, that know that too darkroom worklures are taken, the qu ^eeping into happens, the located invariably pops P anyhow? ing area or, as o must « ^[J^°irnportant thing is foS -hhe ^ away from the working areas. .vhether the j, If you re J" purpose on the s»Io o«"v area you re "smg up is dark of printing paper. half a test strip o P^^^^ Q. stos »« favTlndlealed Interest tween jobs have as S ^nd^hen d^veloP^i^;"^ ^ in what has ^his watery sport electrician Tony "skin-divingactivity either consists of treasure-hunting. "pV^BenaJdez, OS , still be white. — for spear-fishing.^tm^^^^^^^^ r XVllcaai*. „:rtV,fr fli»e 0 AB Watson. At Qgnt " — Q-Hee'vrSmJrhV- i- SrtrSre test ^a" • Business a wVialina IS r activity may he mterwhlle 'ontli-publlshed manested in a r"®"«y^P,"for Photograual called Una Handbook phy and Techniques" ' of Equipment mc. (New Yoik. Exp ^ Cross, •petroleum Makes £ VsA seamen lir ISlnfg°Sles who _ think 'mttenrfJdh^or^P'- . The fact is tha __j/> EjrVialing a lot ^ .'expedition u every month. has made whah^^ load ot Jjnnker y,ase and more P ^^ew of the The south G«^M, „i to can take it _ tanker French Cities ®®7h recently delivered while frankly adm g^^ pictures about ^®:®^°inl^ng^$328 a ton, this some time to c ^ experimental, r^:rwiS relVrhS-'-e'''.t SreSf tsra 1^ the Aht- Ev, ..a i<; a floating "factory 19 ships which carry consisting of ...ith which _the the heavy gear processed, whales f ® "h "P .^g steam These W"^^^®5'gngines and genera- 14»»v» —- r„S='.r.arsMP> UP-"' g^jp of fuel oil each^^g. washes rags in In addit-on, .-12 catchers, W tose^e. ™ .nother SVi or tooro •' "" * Northwest to Eusan, SnL^rme-eetahliehedprac. annually. «. ftn Venczueia Job tESSsfsaSiHi I ' liiiRiliiSi When in Roj;'?® V:K; _. nlfl saving that when y i the Romans do. weu, ^ — „„ writes, writes "the Aragues the •'Anyway, Aragu Louis LOG, Ara-' "^nvway," Aragu ' stuck Tn a letter to tne &iooa opera started a the was to be ®«^«fJembershiP gues-whoj^snoww 8"^7"Jl?eUs"o??ho Incident two fingers m his ^ ^ 4 to show headquarters m e m meetings musUnrtude J their Soccurred to him iu «h»^,S tied. I ef s^^^/gppreciated the istratlon numb ^gggage. ^n^t%nstead tSe was only ?1dSer oul'oo "aeudh shipping oard number music. But ins ^f whom he identmes .fffng in a From now on, 1 Atagues « >'t™ „„ a dead silence. l'°°Vl°'l!!?^^t'ed by the disthe girls in Italy a „ fear^md': t" a.gualut.uce .1 'Don't yon ws tn whistle IS like ffiat aoggeated ^at_^th« u A„g« ^ Ay«S"!^irn?cSvey the same same eP0°'',.'.7.„™ mifgWiuee Araguea Sa<tf;somrSgi«iug.Aragues|aj;h^^^^^^^ and his pal agreed. "-^^.rouSfpietur. The use of stub as and "nment is widely specialized oquiP 00^ and there is discussed in me fke even something ^uh "skin diver who g ^ a spear m one bandj^^^^ Baby ® !lter photography other, underwater Pp^,^p„rtions has '^f^'^^^tal^uipment manuthese days brought out a facturers ^grwater housing simple „n that is said to for such a could desire, be as saje as anyo ^jonOther 8"^^f®^Ltographic dilem- s struction Aggr | boat has full bi^ pn "ir?. ¥jrra.a.'1hihU^^^^^^^^ "rurTeUUiSmS.? Sf, i.oL hU la hot "" fdunking however. "^STh'^ulVrcaident who ^ Z a word meaning mla.d worh ol g.aaa "" ® Rearrange camma tn snen •" t,"The eemhlned same day, is 12. u "' ' K'rhe state ,a) Colorado, lb) BUI. How »ld !» -0 elevation Is. Kansas. Id) "o™ ^rh' vassar as and TV have »g'e„ts have been ,„^.jsrS|r^«t»^r,tSar*'Sii™'"xs It ih- "> W'-- admitted (^^What counp did Napoleon i-.-tr-rc; ''. "a nation of shopkeepeis 1 how much marked tpects �March 4.19SS SE/IFARERS Page Fiftees LOG Fish 'n'Clips-(Hair 'n' Shrubs)-On Voyager Run Bv Spike Marlin SIU crewmen aboard the Steel Voyager (Isthmian) were hot in the Persian Gulf—hot with fishing lines, that is. Left, (1-r) utility McKnew, wiper Markonis and steward Qunitayo show off the groupers they hooked. Right, Markonis gets shark, caught by BR Gus Dixon, ready for photographer. Left, ch. cook Holden, doubling as barber, gives "haircut ala Persian Gulf" to 3rd cook Doyle as (1-r) oiler Whitehead and wiper Carames look on. Right, shrubbery at Hanging Gardens, Bombay, is admired by OS Bill Neef (right) and "Doc" Watson, who took all other photos here. Hedges are trimmed-to represent gorilla and elephant. LOG-A-RHYTHM: The World Champion By Roy Fleischer All his secret desires For power and conquest Were proclaimed openly After the fifth driJiA. He could lick anyone In the'place! —And would, too! Fists doubled, He leaped forward To defeat a sleeping bum. He could lick the cops, too! Every man on the force! He was the pugilistic champion. More powerful Than any man in the world! He threatened The man who restrained him. The wide-eyed bartender. The row of sipping men At the bar. But before he could strike The first blow To rule the world. He passed out, dne drink too many. And fell, unconscious. On the floor. Too drunk to move. The man who toould conquer The world. Seafarer Sam Says fAoLo ONTO Tanker Afire, Crew Of Ines Goes To Ai(J Fire at sea aboard a Norwe­ gian tanker provided some ex­ citement for the SIU crew­ men of the Ines (Bull) during one of the vessel's recent runs to Puerto Rico, according to ship's delegate Tony Calderira. "During our last trip south," Tony reports to the LOG, "our radio operator received a distress signal from the Norwegian tanker Fensal, which had caught fire. "The Ines changed course and sped full steam ahead to the strick­ en vessel. When we reached it we found a Grace Line ship standing by. We also stood by for several hours, and assembled a lifeboat crew and made a trip to the Fensal. "On boarding the Fensal," Tony reports, "we found that the fire, although It caused considerable damage, was under control." Take a heavyweight fighter who forget that Ezzard Charles mad« has been badly beaten by two light him go through the hoop. Marciano's string-pullers have heaviei^ and what do you have? made him look ridiculous by run­ A challenger for the heavyweight ning out on a profitable evening title. If the logic of this procedure with Moore to pick on a stiff like doesn't strike you, don't blame us. Cockell. As it is, Moore himself Don Cockell is the heavyweight could probably finish the English­ man without breathing hard. and he has a contraict, to fight MarLeaving comic opera for the ciano to prove it. moment, the light heavyweight The only excuse for this contest. division holds promise of more inand it's a shabby one at best, is i teiesting action. Floyd Patterson, that very few in the States have ' the wonder boy, has really arrived at the age of 20, and Harold John­ seen Cockell fight. They have seen son is looking as sharp and crisp all the other heavyweights often as ever. Johnson, who is a strange enough to have the "sense not to case, nearly took the title from buy tickets if they fight Marciano. Moore, but then sat down in one Cockell is an unknown quantity. round to Boardwalk Billy Smith. The promoters reason that there Just when everybody had him are enough people around who will marked for the skids he showed come out to see him just out of more flash and style his last time sheer curiosity. out than any other big fighter in Cockell has done the bulk of his the past year. campaigning in English cities. It That was when he completely was over there that Jimmy Slade, outfought and outmaneuvered a fattened-up light heavy, dumped Paul Andrews, toying with him for him. Randy Turpin, who is really a few rounds and then putting him a middleweight mind you, also took on the deck for good with just him over the hurdles. Nobody one pretty right cross. Andrews here would dream of putting Slade admittedly is green and a little or Turpin in the same ring with slow, but still, Johnson's perform­ Marciano. Most boxing commis­ ance was impressive. Johnson and Patterson would sions would consider it cruel and make a very attractive set-to—lots inhuman. better looking than MarcianoNobody In Sight Cockell. Patterson, of course is Unfortunately, the heavyweight just about ready for a title fight division is shy of a logical chal­ with Moore right now, but we don't lenger. The only semblance of think Moore is anxious. If old competition in sight for Marciano Archie must get his block knocked is old man Archie Moore. Archie off, he'd prefer Marciano to do is undoubtedly five times as skill­ the knocking. It would be more ful as Marciano, but he is still only profitable, and he would still have a light-heavyweight and an aging his light heavyweight title after one at that. Those who figure Marciano got through stomping on Moore as a real challenger tend to him. The LOG conducts this column as an exchange for stewards, cooks, bakers and others who'd like to share favored recipes; little-known cooking and baking hints, dishes with a national flavor and the like suitable for shipboard and/or home use. Here's Seafarer George Dackn's recipe for "Nut-filled Turnovers." There are those who say that the master of a ship is one who seeks perfection in others because he cannot measure up to his own high standards. In such cases, the best is never good enough, and woe unto-^the cook or baker who fails to Turnovers" and many ship cap­ tains. In any event, Dackn de­ please him. Be that as it may, Seafarer George Dackn, steward, has a solution to the dilemma which— some might say—obviously results from the similarity between the principal ingredient in "Nut-filled California Sunshine Makes 'Em Beam THAT RooKj OF -THE MOST VALUASLB POSSESSIONS IN THE MARitiAtE INDUSTW \S AN SlO BOOK. KCEf> IT IH A SAFE PLACE ALWAYS . GETTIHS A I>OPL»' CATE IS AN EAPENSIMB ANT> TIME - CoAlSUAdlN^ JOB AAJD CAM CJAUSE A MEMBER AJEEDtESS^ lMCC3Ah/EAllEAlCE • J iJt. u ri! I )it)i Snapped as their ship came into Wilmington, Calif., for bunkers are some of the crewmen of the National Liberty (American Water­ ways). Ship, carrying coal, was on her way to Japan. Man in center, wi^ beards is CharlCA Hoss of Savannah. scribes his turn­ overs as "a real captain pleaser." For the record, any project which enjoys success like that — and with the crew as well — can't be hidden, under a bushel. Dacka Here's what you need: take 2 pounds chopped wal­ nuts, 1 cup sugar, 1 teaspoon van­ illa and teaspoon cinnamon, and mix them together for the filling. Then, combine 12 cups flour, Vi cup sugar, 6 tablespoons baking powder and 1 teaspoon baking soda. Dissolve 2 small yeast cakes (2-ounce size) in a half cup of warm water and add to the flour mixture. Next, mix and add enough warm water to make a medium batter. Let this stand for ten minutes, and then spread the batter on a grid­ dle like pancakes. Bake them on one side only and then while they are still warm, place some of the nut filling on the unbaked side, turn them over half way and seal the edges. When ready to serve, fry the turnovers in butter on both sides and pour sugar syrup over them. The sugar syrup can be made by boiling 2 cups sugar and 1 cup water until thick. �SEAFARERS Pare Sixteen Warns Against Phong Insurance 1.1 :• Maroli 4. 1955 LOG L E T TEE S To the Editor: I would like to warn the mem­ bership about the practices of some of these fly-by-night insurance companies. When my brother was To the Editor: in the Army, he and a bunch of I thought you might like to know other men in his company were that the following resolution, high-pressured by their own lieu­ which I introduced, was passed by tenant into buying some insurance the crewmembers. of the Alcoa from the salesman of a certain in­ Pennant (Alcoa) at the shipboard surance company in Texas. All meeting of February 6: my brother did was sign a white "Whereas the Welfare Plan is card without even seeing a policy, now paying maternity benefits and getting a physical or anything like is always willing that. to help all Union members, Sent Him Policy "Be it resolved The next thing he knew the that full family company had sent him a photostat hospital coverage of an insurance policy with his sig­ be installed for nature on it. He never signed any the benefit of all such policy but they must have pho­ members and tographed or copied his signature their families. off the card and stuck it on. They \ "We, the crewnever did give him any kind of Stewart At Ward Line Bar in Havana, Seafarer Tiney Phillipa, crewman on members of the physical examination. Alcoa Pegasus, relaxes with a friend. Miss Hilda Gonzales. Later on he found out that the Alcoa Pennant, do heartily endorse $10 a month he was paying for the Union efforts to secure a hospitali­ policy was far too much for that sation plan for members and their kind of insurance. When he com­ families." plained to the Veterans Adminis­ James C. Stewart To the Editor: tration they told him there wasn't 4* 4* 4' I thought you would like to anything they could do about it. know that on my arrival in Gal­ The result was that he was stuck veston aboard the Alcoa Pegasus, for $230. I ran into Brother Walter BrightSo if any of these insurance well, who Is now back in the tav­ salesmen try to high pressure you ern business. into signing any cards, better make To the Editor: I am writing this from the Man­ Brother Brightwell, who, used to sui'e first what kind of a deal they are getting j'ou into. hattan Beach USPHS hospital to operate the Circle Club in Galves­ Edgar Anderson let you know that this hospital is ton, now runs, Brightwell's Tavern at 408 20th Street. 43^ one of the best. Brother Brightwell keeps the The other night I wanted to LOG on tap, and he has a nice watch the Olson-Jones fight on TV, place for seamen to meet, so I but the nurse told me I had to hope some of the brothers will stop To the Editor: have someone push me into the TV in if they're in Galveston. I spent over four months as room in a wheelchair, so I got Another good place is the Ward bosun on the Robin Kirk, and I Paddy McCann. When it comes to Line Bar in Havana where all the think that the skipper. Captain pushing wheelchairs, he's tops. Alcoa Pegasus crewmen had a Herbert, is a good man to sail I certainly would appreciate with. When I went on board the having visits from any of you boys good time during our stay there. I am sending you a photo of this ship I heard from some people who care to come out here. place and-1 hope you will use it that he was a quick man.with the Jack Denley in the LOG. log book so I was prepared for Mrs. Robert Cole L. L. (Tiney) Phillips (The Baltimore Kid) the worst. But I was pleasantly Seafarer Robert Lee Cole and surprised. Miss Marjorie Hede were married We had a good crew aboard, in Folkston, Ga., on February 6, without pei'formers. Because we 1955, it "has been announced. gave the skipper a fair deal and The bride is the daughter of Carl didn't foul up, we got all the co­ E. Hede, while Cole is the son of operation in the world from him. Mr. and Mrs. Robert H. Cole. He showed consideration for the After a wedding trip, the couple crew and met us halfway every will live in Jacksonville, Fla. time. II some of the brothers on a 4" 4" 4" trip foul up too much, they can't blame the skipper for cracking down on them. Marcelino Santiago To the Editor: 4i 4" 4" I am writing this from the Sungei Gerong hospital in Sumatra, where I am laid up in bed with a pretty bad fracture of the right To the Editor: leg. I will have to have traction I am writing this to thank the on it for a while to get it in place SIU for getting my husband, so the doctors can put a cast on it. Matti Ruusukallio, the wheelchair I was on the Steel Vendor when which he so badly needed. I and the ship's carpenter went to It is wonderful to know that look over the refinery here; The when J'OU need help of any kind, accident happened while we were all you have to do is to call on riding bicycles back to the ship. the SIU and the Union is always Former shipmates meet again at SIU headquarters as Seafarer Allen I would appreciate it if you ready to lend assistance. Friend, MM (left) greets Cpl. Roy Johnson, stationed at Governor's would send me the last three or We sincerely appreciate all the Island, NY, after year of service in Korea. Both men were on liner four issujss of the LOG as there good things that the Union has Puerto Rico in 1953 before she was sold by Bull to foreign-flag is not much reading material hex-e. done, not only for us but for all interests. Johnson, an AB who sailed SIU for seven years, came John F. French Its members. to hall to check on reactivating his book. He hopes to continue (Ed. note: Copies of the LOG (Mrs.) Mildred Ruusukallio sailing after his discharge from Army. are being sent to you airmail.) Famiig Hospital Plan Is Sought ?•;: rX r- SIU Brother Buns Galveston Tavern Seafarer Weds Georgia Girl Baltimore Ki#r Wants Visitors Finds Robin Kirk Captain is Okag illiiiii Ex-Shipmates Get Together At Hq Steel Vendor Man Hurt In Sumatra Sags ^Thank Foit^ For Wheelchair I' 1^5 " r-'.- I •. Burly WRLi; Back to Beaiiig ASflllDlmkJM //^(wW'Cg/ To the Editor: I have just arrived in Puerto la Cruz, Venezuela, aboard Seatrade's tanker Queenston Heights, and I would like you to know that we made this run without a beef of any kind. We signed on in Philadelphia and went up to Portland, Me., where we had a very clean payoff, and then 23 hours later we signed on for this Venezuela run. I think that the fact that we had such a good run is due to two things. First, the crew gets along very well with the officers on this ship, especially our skipper. Cap­ tain Costello, who never interferes in our affairs as long as we do our jobs properly. Good Chief Cook rSecond, we have a fine chief cobk on hei-e. His name is Hanrik Hansen and there are never any complaints about anything he puts out. I have worked with many other cooks, but to me Hansen is the best chief cook I have ever sailed with. On a ship like this the men get along together very well, just like brothers, and this gives a real meaning to the term "Brother­ hood of the Sea."' In closing, I would like to say that making a run like this, on a ship like this, and with a crew and officers like this, again make me i-ealize the value of membership in the SIU. It is no idle boast to say that SIU men I'eally have "the best in maritime." Alexander Chemey 4 4 4' Seamar Crewmen Are Eating Well To the Editor: One of the most important i-equisites towai'd making a happy ship has always been food—and it al­ ways will be. Aboard the Seamar (Calmar), I am happy to say, the food situation is being taken cai'e of very vvell. I'm not going to insult anyone's intelligence by saying that Calmar is going hog wild V and putting prime cuts of meat and A-1 brands of other foods on here. But I do say that the menus and the preparation of food are vei-y, very good.*^ Cummings The credit for this must go to John Marshall, steward; Frank Rankin, chief cook; Sam Merkerson, second cook, and Dick Johnson, thii'd cook. The other members of the steward de­ partment ai-e also on the ball. Incidentally, our chief cook, Frank Rankin, was formei-ly a chef for the Pennsylvania Railroad. I want you to know that in mak­ ing the above statements I am speaking for the whole ship's com­ plement, who i-ealize that they really "hit the jackpot" on this trip. Dick Cummings Ship's delegate By 'Bernard Seaman COOLV PERHAPS flhlD AMmEATT -TD-— ^0,MiZ.CLAEi< ^ GABLIJlVOMr LIKE ro imUDE. BUTl >7 \fiOU— Seatrade Tanker. Has A Good Bun Icl JN • % fimmsJoBj �Pve SereBteea iskAFARER^S iio March 4.1M8 ... DIGEST of SHIPS' MEETINGS ... data—Chairman, Jahn Winn; Sacratary, L. Hall, |r. Ona man missed ibip and a few brothera were caught on the abort and by making loans to him before de­ parture of ship. New book aent tq ahlp by Union for the library, and crawmembera were asked to return same when finished. New mattresses were distributed equally among the three departments. Any minor repairs should be listed and MARORE (Ore), December I—Chair­ turned in to boatswain. man, Charles A. Moss; Secretary, E. Har­ LIBERTY BELL (Dover), Dacambar li rison. Motion made and carried to have delegates check books and permits. The —Chairman, R. VIckarman; Sacratary, M. Pappadakli. Action wUl be taken in the steward department was thanked for a wonderful Thanksgiving dinner. Dele- near future on any one performing, the :ate will see the patrolman about put- ship's delegate said. Motion made that a ship's fund be estabfished by each ing up a siopchest list. January 9—Chairman, C. Moss; Secre­ crewmember donating the aum of SI. tary, E. Harrison. Beefs about mate be­ The ship's delegate reported the case of ing on deck. Discussion on keeping a crewmember who was detained by the laundry clean. The crewmember who has police in San Pedro. been taking the cocoa at night was asked STEEL TRAVELER (Isthmian), Dacam­ to leave same as others enjoy it too. OIL AIRES (Mli*lulppl)> D«c*mb«r u1l _ Chairman, C. Frayi Sacratary, D. FIfchar. Suggeation made that carpenter buUd bookcase for library, and all mem­ bers were asked to return books when inished with them. All longshoremen and other persons who are not crewmembers should ha kept out of the pas­ sageway. Discussion on penalty cargo. ? for their convenience. Crewmembera sug­ gested that there be more variety in meats. A vote of thanks was given to the steward department for a fine Christmai dinner. Repair lists should be made up each trip until all the repairs are taken care of. that It la interfering with his regular duties. Motion made and carried that a letter be sent to headquarters about the oiler who left ship without a relief. The master will be contacted about needed repairs I and also about some extra fans. CHICKASAW (Waterman), Dacambar 21 —Chairman, M. Ellis; Sacratary, O. Buiclglio. Repairs lists should be turned in by department delegatea to ship's dele­ gate for voyage ending. Crew gave the captain k vote of ^anks for arranging to have the ship decorated, which lent tha proper Christmas atmosphere aboard. The steward department was given a vote of thanks for their extra service in preparing a variety of foodi during the Christmas holidays. COE VICTORY (Victory Carriers), no STEEL FLYER (Isthmian), January S— Chairman, C. Bush; Sacratary, S. Nialsan. Failure of the Swift Laundry to return crew's laundry will be investigated upon asked to leave the keys to their rooms when leaving ship. Discussed having crew's washing machine repaired out of ship's fund. Steward expressed thanks for "splendid cooperation received from crew during the trip. tPERSONAtS: John Westley Prescott Your mother wishes you to contflct her. Eugene Ciccato Get in touch with Joseph Pilutis at his home. i t t Harvey C. Hill You are asked to contact Ted Steuka, 399 Ahport Blvd., South San Francisco, Calif. t> S> NcUl Abemathy Bed Braunsteln wishes you to contact him at the Wilmington hall. J* 4" Herbert Pollock Your seaman's papers and other papers have been found and are being held for you by Mrs. Alice Knowlton, 3706 OVi Ave., Galves­ ton, Tex. t 4" Charles Lee Contact Lionel B. Miller, 2729 Bay St., New Orleans, La. 4" 4- 4 4 4 4 4 4 Larry Briggs John Allega wishes you to eontact him at the NV Cafe, North Oxbridge, Mass. Troy Thomas Theresa wishes you happiness on your birthday, March 20. Thomas E. Collins Call Michael Clifford at TUlip 2-1810 or write him at 353 Mosholii Pkwy., Bronx, NY. 4 4 4 4 4 4 Orville Francis Christian T. M. Kususky says it is im­ portant for you to contact him at 722 Carman St., Camden, NJ. Edward Rydon Abe Weistock wishes you to get in touch with him about the dis­ position of your sextant. His ad­ dress is 5430 Nelson Ave., Balti­ more, Md. 4 4 4 Nesbett Legion Morrison Urgent you contact your mother at 513 £. Brought St., Savannah, Ga. 4 4 4 Edgar (Red) Starns Ronald (John) Barnes asks you to contact him at Virginian Ap't. No. 1, 2014 4th St., Seattle, Wash. 4 4 4 Nicholas Fedyk Urgent you contact your sister, Mrs. Anne Tetor, at 7351 Theo­ dore St., Philadelphia. BElgrade 6-3092. 4 4 Patrick John M. Havas portant news for reached at the 4 Mozier says he has im­ you. He can be Jersey- Journal, ANTINOUS (Waterman), January 2— Chairman, M. Duet; Secretary, K. Cola. Treasurer reported $35 in the ship's fund out of which was taken money for parts for converter for TV set and various Christmas decorations for crew messroom.. A letter from Brother Hall con­ cerning Coast Guard power grab was read to the membership and all brothers, were urged to write their Congressmen concerning this unfair issue. Ail brothers thanked steward department for a won­ derful Christmas dinner. A. Shrimpton. Ship's delegate explained the reason why there could only be one draw in the Port of Calcutta. Vote, of thanks given to the steward and his de­ partment for the Thanksgiving dinner and for the all around good meals served aboard the ship. Suggestion made that the siopchest be opened at afternoon coffee time as well as evening. Chief IBERVILLE (Waterman), Dacambar 1* mate appeared before the meeting and —Chairman, Roy Guild; Secretary, V. C. talked about safety precautions In pre­ Smith. Suggestion made to shade lights venting shlifboard accidents. for TV, and to buy Christmas tree with needed decorations. This was approved ANN MARIE (lull), January 2—Chair­ by the membership and V. C. Smith vol­ man, H. Martin; SaCrstsry, E. Dakln. unteered to do the buying and to post Discussing on men using ship's gear in receipts for same; such expenses to be a proper manner. All hands were asked paid from the ship's fund. to shut oft washing machina after using January 3—Chairman, V. C. Smith; Sec­ same. Crewmembera were reminded -to retary, W. A. Wada. Ways and means pay dues this trip. discussed for increasing ship's fund. Crewmembers voted to donate $1 each. OCEAN LOTTE (Marlllm* Ovtrteas), The steward thanked crew for coopera­ January 1—Chairman, A. Carpantar; Sac­ tion in keeping messhall clean. Wiper ratary, Kainowtky. Motion made and and OS will take turns cleaning ladder carried to have delegate* mak;e a list of to crew's quarters aft. Crewmembers re­ all the neglected repairs turned in from minded to clean laundry room after using the previous meeting, and refer them to same. our port agent, prior to signing articles. DEL VALLE (Mississippi), November 23 -There was quite a discussion in reference to the improvement made In painting —Chairman, Joe Wise; Secretary, R. crew's quarters. Salby. Ship's delegate will contact the 'chief engineer about having fans installed in foc'sles as per agreement. A sugges­ tion was made that crewmembers read the agreement and at tha next shipboard meeting a discussion should be held on Irazarry. Treasurer reported that there changes in conditions and working rules. is $103.10 in }he ship's fund. From this money 50 eases of coca cola was pur­ YORKMAR (Caimar), Dacambar 25— chased. All members agreed to pay $2.40 for a case and when empties are returned Chairman, E. Hogga; Sacratary, T. Kannedy. The steward department will take one dollar will be refunded. A new ship's care of the recreation room in the fu­ delegate was elected. ture and the engine and deck depart­ ments will take care of the washroom. ROBIN MOWBRAY (Seas Shipping), De­ Any one who uses tha washing machine cember 5—Chairman, N. Remlcy; Secre­ was asked to make sura they leave it in tary N. Wroton. Motion made and car­ good condition. Crew will And out what ried that an attempt be made to get med­ has happened to ship's fund that was icine lockers installed in each foc'sle so left on ship. the men would have some place to keep their shaving gear, etc. Discussion en the ALCOA ROAMER (Alcoa), January 2— literature coming aboard ship, and it was Chairman, C. Back; Sacratary, R. Palmar. decided to keep same and turn it over Motion made to elect committee to study to the patrolman. problems of Installing a TV let for the crew. Bepalr list made up and will be GOVERNMENT CAMP (ultics Service), posted in messroom. Crewmembers were Nevambcr 25—Chairman, L. Pakrer; Sec­ asked to return cups and glasses to mess- retary, J. Block. Steward department was room and to keep the ship clean. complimented for the "very nice Thanks­ giving dinner they prepared and served. MICHAEL (Carras), January S—Chair­ Ship's delegate will obtain all available man, P. Jakubcsak; Sacratary, S. Dant. information in relation to resolutions pre­ Ship's delegate resigned due to the fact sented for further discussion. Quiz Answers Puzzle Answer SSQ [IZ1DQSI2 saa [ESHaaHBa aaaGa QSHHS aaa Q[§[z;][iao aa rasQH® GOQa fflcansras aaaaijis SHS QQuaa sa saaara Gasaa DSD Hsaa aaamfflBMCJ rasBEa oan [3[3r:q Bgljl SEATRAIN NEW YORK (Seatrain), Jan­ uary 15—Chairman, S. See; Secretary, C. E. Mosley. Steward department was thanked for the improvement of menus and service. $64.80 reported in the ship's Shortage of stores brought up and dis­ fund. The polio fund was discussed and cussed. Steward feels he isn't at fault it was agreed that the men make their since he came on board after requisi­ donations at home. tions were turned in. Some items on the repair list will be held over until next EMILIA (Bull), January 15—Chairman, trip as ship is scheduled for the ship­ L. Gucllnitz; Secrataj-y, C. Kavanaugh. yard. Ship's delegate informed crewmembers that they are to work from bell to bell EUGENIE (Orel), December 25—Chilr- with no time off. Mate pointed out that man, V. Meahan; Secretary, M. Culp. the bosun was not to do any work ex­ Ship is in need of ail new mattresses cept supervise. Three men were fired. and the new pillows smell like dead Motion made and carried that meetings chickens. Ship's delegate will see the be held at 6:30 PM instead of 3 PM and patrolman about a better grade of meat, that new delegates be elected at every eggs and general stores. The laundry payoff. A vote of thanks was given to soap powder is a poor quality. Captain the steward department for the service will not put out overtime for betterment and preparation of food. Extra fans are needed. Repair list made up. of crew's quarters. SEATRAIN SAVANNAH (Seatrain), De­ cember 10—Chairman, M. Shapman; Sec­ retary, S. Johnson. A collection was taken up for a few additional Christmas ornaments as some of the ornaments from last year got broken. Motion made and carried that all brothers write their Congressmen concerning the new pro­ posals made by the Coast Guard. There was a lengtlily discussion on the food ^ served aboard this vessel and its prepara­ tion. The chief cook and galley force promised to do better in the future. STEEL ADMIRAL (Isthmian), January 2—Chairman, C. Liverman; Sacratary, J. (1) (c) Claustrophobia. (2) (b) James Buchanan. He was the only President to remain a bachelor throughout his term in the White House. (3) Mosaic. (4) Bob is 101/4 years old and Bill is m. (5) (b) Delaware, with an aver­ age elevation of 60 feet. (6) (d) New York. It'i in Poughkeepsie. (7) England. (8) Guy Lombardo. (9) $24. A bushel costs $3. (10) A cockroach. STEEL NAVIGATOR (Isthmian), Decamber 12—Chairman, J. Kramer; Sec­ retary, A. Parlsaau. Attention brought to the fact that the men logged on last trip had to appear before the Coast Guard. Mate agreed to all repairs and same wUl be taken care of while ship is underway. A new ship's delegate was elected. AMES VICTORY (Victory Carriers), January •—Chairman, O. Frank; Sacra­ tary, A. Barnard. Ship's delegate re­ ported that two men were logged for missing watches and performing at sea and in port. A motion was made and carried that these two men be brought BRADFORD ISLAND (Cities Service), up on charges for conduct unbecoming union members. A letter from SIU con­ January 14—Chairman, G. Jargo; Secre­ cerning the Coast Guard matter was read tary, G. Java. Jr. Chief engineer okayed repairs and will get to them as soon as by the ship's delegate and posted. possible. Crewmembers were asked to DEL VIENTO (Mississippi), January 9 clean washing machine after each using. officers —Chairman, H. Cornell; Secretary, J. Crew commented on the fine Atchison. Discussion on the galley util­ aboard this ship. ity: the crew decided to leave this matter ARCHERS HOPE (Cities Service), Janup to the discretion of the patrolman. uary 15—Chairman, C. Kaust; Secretary, B. Padgett. Engine delegate asked crew not to hang laundry in the engine room. Steward is not issuing enough laundry powder. Crewmembers getting off ship were asked to bring linen midship. bar IS—Chairman, J. Cravan; Sacratary, arrival in New York. Crewmembers were OCEAN ULLA (Ocean Transportation), no data—Chairman, L. Clllls; Secretary, D. PIcccrall. A vote of thanks was given to the steward department for a job . well done in preparing and serving the Christmas dinner. Deck delegate re­ ported that he has spoken to the captain and he promised to take care of all re­ pairs. Ship's delegate will see the chief engineer about removing rubber hose from the washing machine - and put a piece of pipe In Its place. the shlp'a fund be turned over to the next ahip's delegate for next voyage. Several members spoke on the welfare of aU crewmembers. IBERVILLE (Waterman), January Chairman, V. Rosata; Secretary, V. Smith. Coca Cola is being sold aboard ship with the profit going into the ship's fund so it will be self-supporting in the future. Suggestion made that a repair list be submitted in time so that repairs may be taken care of in Mobile. ALCOA PARTNER (Alcoa), January 15 —Chairman, Powell; Secretary, F. McGuagge, Suggestion made to get rid of some of the old books in the library. Discussion on the water in the pantry. STEEL APPRENTICE (Isthmian), Jan­ uary 9—Chairman, M. Machel; Secretary, C. Hartman. Motion made and carried for messman to dispose of garbage on main deck below the main house as crew lives on this deck. Suggestion made that Arabs be fed in the PO mess as not to conflict with the crew during mealhoiirs. Departments will rotate in clean­ ing laundry and library. SANTORE (Ore), January 4—Chairman, R. King; Sacratary, T. Hansen. On sev­ eral occasions shower water has been too hot. January 10—Chairman, R. King; Secre­ tary, J. Grlttith. One man missed ship. Cash on hand 544.20. The ship's dele­ gate will buy a new radio for the crew, ROBIN TUXFORD (Scat Shipping), no and it will be purchased from the Sea data—Chairman, A. Cairns; Secretary, F. Chest. Gardner. Carpenter bought some new FENNMAR (Caimar), January 15 — records and the crew agree to pay for same. All hands were asked to return Chairman, Walsh; Secretary, Strange. cups to sink, and to refrain from putting Bosun made a motion that all showers cigarettes or ashes in same. Laundry be painted and repaired. The steward room will be kept clean by departments department was complimented, with spe­ cial thanks going to the steward and rotating. chief cook for their fine work. VAL CHEM (Valentine), December 1— Chairman, J. Karl; Secretary, R. Galling. LIBERTY BELL (Dover), January 21— The steward was asked to get new mat­ Chairman, VIckarman; Secretary, M. Paptresses for the crew. The crew voted not padakis. Motion made and carried that to bring to the attention of the patrol­ man the matter of the second mate, but rather give him more rope to hang him­ self. A vote of thanks was given to the steward department for a wonderful Thanksgiving Day dinner. CHICKASAW (Waterman), November 30—Chairmen, Ralph Secklngar; Secre­ tary, J. Murphy. Ship's delegate asked aU delegates to turn In their repair lists. He explained our system of electing new delegates every trip to the new members of the crew. The chief steward thanked aU hands for their cooperation. Bosun requested that all garbage be dumped aft. BARBARA FRITCHIE (Liberty), Novehibcr 4—Chairman, E. Tesko; Secre­ tary, A. Thorns. Vote of than'KS extended to the ateward department for an exceUent Thanksgiving Day dinner. Stew­ ard will see about getting a bigger toaster for the crew mess. FAOLI (Cities Service), January 2-:Chalrman, D. Collins; Secretary, J. Fischer. RAPHAEL SEMMES (Waterman), No­ vember 22—Chairman, J. Slogaitis; Sec­ retary, H. Pierce. Crewmembers were asked to keep the messhall alid pantry clean at all times for the next watch. A new sliip's delegate was elected. Report Asks End Of PHS For Seamen (Continued from page 3) ti'eatment for tuberculosis and other diseases. These hospitals have also been of gieat value in training thousands of physicians and nurses—professions in criticaiiy short supply. Actually, while the hospitals are Government-supported today, sea­ men have an equity in the proper­ ties since for many years, the pro­ ceeds from shipboard loggings went for the support of the marine hospitals. This fact raises a legal question as to the authority of Congress to shut them down. While the Hoover report has al­ ready'been criticized both in and out of Congress, it will undoubted­ ly be used in a fresh attack on medical services for seamen. As in the past, the SIU will make every effort to save the hospitals and ui'ges individual Seafarers to do likewise by writing Congress­ men from their home states. Edifor, SEAFARERS LOG. 675 Fourth Ave., Brooklyn 32, NY I would like to receive the SEAFARERS LOG—pleose put my name on your mailing list. (Print Information) NAME STREET ADDRESS CITY ZONE STATE Motion made and carried that American money Issued in foreign ports be put in the contract. Master said logs will stick but men are not fired. Crewmembers TO AVOID DUPLICATION: If you are en old subscriber end have e ching* will see about baving the ship fumigated. of eddreas, please give your former address below: Signed CHILORE (Ore), January 1—Chairman, John Giancola; Sacratary, H. Leiby. PO mess wiU be kept open while ship is in ADDRESS port: members were told that if they >K(IV>tsi9~sA)>tain anything from- the- Sea Chest Ihe night telephone will be posted CITY -..I ZONE .. STATI • it �• SEAFARERS Pase EisJiteeB o To speed up its many services to Seafarers and their families, the headquarters office of th® SIU Wel­ fare Services Department has shifted to new quarters on the sec­ ond deck. Welfare Services formerly oper­ ated out of desk space in the front of the headquarters hiring hall. The office has now b^en moved to the large room at the right rear of the shipping hall providing ample seating space for Seafarers or family members who come in to see a Welfare Services represen­ tative. The new and more spacious facilities mean that Welfare Serv­ ices will be able to handle a larger volume of applicants than before In comfort. Another representa­ tive has been added to the staff of the department which will also mean faster service l!?K p I h\ - ht- • -, 'fe'' Couldn't Sign Off When he got back to the States, the Union found that Byrne was too ill to sign off articles. He had about $500 in earned an unearned wages coming to him at the time. With the approval of the member­ ship, arrangements were made with the company to pay the money due directly to Mrs. Byrne. This step was taken by the com­ pany after the Union agreed to stand good for the money In the 3 REPORT ON BENEFITS PAID T...«?.r.«?..Cr...Jf:sr. Proia No. Seafarera Receiving Benefits chis Period I Ayerage Benefitt Paid Each Seafarer Total Benefita Paid thia Period /Co 4 ba\aS Coj VrjlRo WELFARE, VACATION BENEFITS PAID THIS PERIOD HosDilsl Benefits Desth Benefits Dissbilltv Benefits 00 4 nU.lL Mrs. Isaac Hancock poses with* baby Betty Ann in front of the family buggy and home in Henderson, North Carolina. Betty Ann arrived in this world on February 8, 1955, and was welcomed by a $200 SIU Welfare Plan payment. Welfare Services also made ar­ rangements for" payment of the Welfare Plan hospital benefits to Mrs. Byrne, giving her an addi­ tional source of Income which her husband had no use for because of his condition. A few weeks after his repatria­ tion Byrne passed away suddenly in the hospital. Having no one else to turn to, Mrs Byrne came once again to Welfare Services for help In the emergency. At her request. Welfare Services assisted In making funei'al ar­ rangements. This is often done by the Union office to protect bene­ ficiaries of Seafarers from the ex­ orbitant prices which are occa­ sionally Imposed by unscrupulous undertakers on the families of de­ ceased breadwinners. Linda Lee Lowman, born Janu­ ary 23, 1955. Parents, Mr. and Mrs. George N. Lowman, Brooklyn, Maryland. 4" t .i" Joseph Wayne Vogel, bom Janu­ ary 11, 1955. Parents, Mr. and Mrs. William Vogel, 304 East Randall Street, Baltimore, Maryland, t it " Brenda Annette Padgett, born December 31, 1954. Parents, Mr. and Mrs. William Padgett, New Or­ leans, La. 4' it 4" Marilyn, Cruz, born January 6, 1955. Parents, Mr. and Mrs. Juan Cruz, Jr., New York, New York. 4" 4 4" Margaret Renee Pierre, horn No­ vember 24, 1954. Parents, Mr. and Mrs. George Pleme, Chunchula, Alabama. 4 4 4 4 4 Hosbital Benefits Paid Since lulv L 1950 • Death Benefits Paid Since Tulv 1. 1950* Disability Benefits Paid Since May 1. 1952 * Matctaitv Benefits Paid Since Anril I. 1952* Vacation Benefita Paid Since Feb. 11. 1952 * Total • Date B«n.rits Betss 9b Un no AA f (oo.iae 71 VacatioD Cash 00 Hand fSfST" Vftcacion Estimatedi Accounts Rcceivnblo ygifnyg— US Governmeot Bonds (Veifaie) Real Estate (Welfare) Other Assets — Training Ship (Welfare) TOTAL ASSETS iimmm II (XSH OA I innwwrn ivTRmm eSDERBEni SOiniBNTSi During th« past year the Welfare Plan paid out DSiiTH BBNE- . FITS in the anount of $333,200.00. HOSPITAL BENEFITS in the anount of $170,600.(X) were paid to eligibles under the Plan. The Plan also paid six hundred fowteen (6lU) NATERNITT BBI^ITS for a total of $122,800,00 for the year 1951|. DISABILin BENEFITS in the amount o'f $1x3,200.00 were paid by the Plan dxiring the year as well as $10,000.00 in SCHOLARSHIP BENEFITS. The above represents only e portion of the benefits paid, as the Plan paid out well over a million dollars in benefits. /de /wf Smimituj M K#rr, Assisteal Adminiattetor TOPk • Y<X//? CLAM fOR MAmeNANCe AND CuRB. .. 4 Osborne Marshall William Brooke, Jr., born January 22, 1955. Parents, Mr. and Mrs. Osborne M. Brooke, Mobile, Alabama. 4 4 4 4 4 4 Lamont Wayne Lewis, born No­ vember 13, 1954. Parents, Mr. and Mrs. Leonai'd Lewis, Washington, DC. 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 Thomas William Beatty, Jr., born January 12, 1955. Parents, Mr. and Mrs. Thomas W. Beatty, Houston, Texas. David Wayne Barnett, born De­ cember 6, 1954. Parents, Mr. and Mrs. John D. Barnett, Gulfport, Mississippi. 4 X UdLai Vn (ffi" WELFARE, VACATION PLAN ASSETS if \feiAf imporfayii'hclamm " maiirhsnance and cune-M-'^M if]sis/-a Ghlpboand yiepont be mde of your-atXflAenf'sfd-fhifyou aye lea\/]m -fhe niedical yeaeons. /ave a shiprrtah, keep a v/lhse&^-Hte apY' medical slip ipfBvA, 14? you hav - 'anycjue^ions, cord^-fhe % Patricia Jean Beresford, born January 10, 1955. Parents, Mr. and Mrs. James Beresford, East Boston, Massachusetts. Mrs. Helena Byrne (left) is assisted in filing claim for the SIU death benefit at the,; headquarters l^elfare Services office. Fa -4 Vernon Victor Jaks, born Janu­ ary 12, 1955. Parents, Mr. and Mrs. Edward Jaks, El Campo, Texas. P.' 1- Lo WELFARE. VACATION BENEFITS PAID PREVIOUSLY Lanora Marvel! Cantrell, born January 25,1955. Parents, Mr. and Mrs. John D. Cantrell, Jx-., Mobile, Alabama. 4 po ^0 Vd, 4* Kathryn Nannette Miller, born .January 21,1955. Parents, Mr. and Mrs. Henry Miller, Mobile, Ala­ bama. ?n ^ Sis' VacMion Benefits Totrf The assistance Welfare Services gives to Seafarers and their families is typified by the^ experience of Mrs. Helena Byrne of Brooklyn. From the 'time her husband, Seafarer James Byrne, became ill on^ board a ship through his re­ unlikely event that Byrne should cent death and burial, the claim it at a later date. Union office aided her every step of the way. Mrs. Byrne's husband first be­ came ill on the Warrior, (Water­ man) several months ago, and was put ashore in a Turkish hospital. Welfare Services aiTanged initial­ ly for his repatriation to the US, SEAFARERS SEAFARERS WELFARE, VACATION PLANS Welfare Follows Through On Aid To Seafarer's Wife 'if Misrcii 4,1958 5 All of the foUoioing SIU families and Mrs. William S. Sharp, Cincin­ will collect the $200 maternity nati, Ohio. it 4" benefit plus a $25 bond from the Agustin Tellez Manzanet, born Union in the baby's name: December 24, 1954. Parents, Mr. William Stewart Sharp, Jr., born and Mrs. Agustin Tellez Bosado, January 26, 1955. Parents, Mr. Playa, Ponce, Puerto Rico. r:- •" '"•r;.';'-'^:;<-.'r» • • • EOG House, Car And Baby Bigger Office Provided For HQ Welfare ' 4 4 Jean Valmon Dupre, Jr., born January 22,1955. -Parents, Mx'. and Mrs. Jean Valmon Dupre, Mamou, HI eiu ' SID WELFAHE SERVICES iipumiir JUUJI11 • .'1-: �Mareli 4,1958 SEAIARERS LOG Pace Nineteen -••JSSI — And The Bride Caught Her Ship SE^* THE SEAFARERS The cpurse of true love seldom runs smooth as a familiar saying goes, so its nice to have Welfare Services haindy to take care of some of the roadblocks. Right now Welfare Services is clearing the way for Seafarer William "Tiny" MacDonald's recAtly-acquired bride to be-^l admitted to the United States as a resident of the country. Seafarer Dusan Deduisin is keeping his fingers crossed as are all of his friends that the Staten Island hospital can restore his eyesight. De But that wasn't all. dulsin dkpects. to be operated on shortly for a cataract on his left eye and a separated retina on tHe other eye. Brother Deduisin spent quite a- bit of his own cash and had an opera­ tion performed by an outside specialist in Philadelphia last summer. Since he hasn't been able to sail since then and has spent his own dough for treatment, your Union was able to get him admitted to Staten Island ,on the grounds that his was a continuing case. If any of his friends have a little trouble recogniz­ ing Seafarer Tim Holt froip now on in it will be with good reason. Tim is in the liospital now for an operation on his nose because of an old injury, and the doctors are going to straighten it out for him. Brother Jimmie Golder is up and around again after a double hernia operation. He was aboard the Coe Bowman Victory his last trip out. The brothers will remember Jimmie who was working as dispatcher at headquarters for a time. . Brother Jose Roddguez, who had an operation on his neck some time back, went back into the hospital on February 16, to have the scar tissue removed. Another brother due to be operated on is Antonio Schiavone, who was steward on the Beatrice. The doctors are going to fix up his bad thumb. Seafarer Virgil Bowman, who was oiler on the Steel Architect, has been having some trouble with varicose veins and had to take time off for, treatment. Recovering from injuries after a fall on the Hurricane is Seafarer Matthew Eurlsa. He got cut up and suffered a possible back injury when he fell off a turbine. Seafarer David Kaim had to go back in for more treatment because of a skin condition, and Seafarer Joseph Puglisi is in for the same reason. Brother John McKarek got a shock wheif he went in the hospital for a minor operation and doc­ tors found he had a touch of diabetes as well. Also getting treatmenii for diabetes is Antonio Martin, who was wiper on the National Freedom. Brother Gerald Fitzjames who was FWT on the Sanddaptain is coming along nowi He had a stomach ailment and had lost quite a bit of weight. Anthony Seaturro, messman off the Steel Surveyor also is get-, ting treatment for stomach trouble. Other brothers in the hospital include Cornelius Holt Filkins, who was on the Southern States the last time out; Sylvester Walsh, AB off the Pennmar; and Joe Felton, AB off the Sandcaptain. i The men in the hospital and your Welfare Services representatives 'want to thank Dr. John Wilson and the staff of the Staten Island hospi­ tal for the fine job they've been doing and the cooperation they have been giving your Union's representatives. It's made matters more pleasant for our people all around.- Seafarers In Hospitals USPHS HOSPITAL USPHS HOSPITAL STATEN ISLAND, NY NEW ORLEANS, LA. Samuel Bailey Oscar Adams Joseph Malone Raymond Mormino P. B. Bommaritos Alfonso Olaguibel Hussen Ahmed Abdul G. Mohamed Charles Brady C. H. Allardice Joseph Neubauer Jack Oosse Lyles Brunsoii Archibald Andersen George Robinson Herman Ostberg Enoch Collins B. Calliorina Juan Ruiz Aurelio Patingo Carl A. Carlson Mattl Ruusukallio Warren W. Currier Darrell Riley George Cutrer John J. Doherty Leon Ryzop J. E. Rousavall Thomas Dugan Angelo P. Ferrie Victor, Shavroff David Ruckner J. Engeihardt George W. Flood Henrich Sterling ' Joachim Saik Estell Godfrey Henry L. Falgout Carl Sundquist Benjamin Seal Lonnie HaU Leo Fontenot, Samuel Vandal Antonio Soils Miles Foster Fred Hauser Christian' Voss Henry Sosa Alfredo Garcia George Herman James Waldron Token Spiers William Grimes Pedro Ibardohisa K. G. Wetterhorn Gleason St. Germain Clifford Womack SeraHn G. Lopez Kristian Gunderson Goon Poy Thlu E. T. Hardeman Juliu^ Thrasher USPHS HOSPITAL Konstant Kain Lonnie R. Tickle MANHATTAN BEACH. NY E. G. Knapp Marion Vester Fortunato Bacomo James R. Lewis Leo H. Lang Billie Ward Frank W. Bemrick Arthur Lomas Earl P. Larson James Ward Claude Blanks Francis F. Lynch Harry Lewis Edward Woods Robert Booker ' loseph D. McGraw Thomas Maynes Clyde Wright Joseph Carr Thomas McCaffrey Lionel Miller David Wright Ho Yee Choe Archibald McGuigan Jar Chong Vic Milazzo USPHS HOSPITAL Walter Denley Melvin O. Moore SEATTLE, WASH. Eugene T. Nelson John Driscoll Yue Kung Fah George J. Wanka Bart Guaranick Daniel Ruggiano Sverre Johannessen M. H. Whitehead Taib Hassen W. A. Johnston Wade H. Sexton Thomas Isaksen USPHS HOSPITAL George Shumaker John W. Keeiiaii Ernest Smallwood FORT WORTH. TEXAS John R. Klemowicz Henry Smith Leonard Cradttock Harry Schuler Ludwig Kristiansen Ranato Viliata USPHS HOSPITAL Frederick Landry Virgil E. Wilmoth SAN FRANCISCO. CALIF. Edwin Brown James J. Lawlor Chee K. Zai M. Meguissoglu Max Byers Kaarel Leetmaa Charles Neumaier G. Fletcher Frank Paylor USPrtS HOSPITAL Olav Gustavsen Joseph Perriera LEXINGTON. KY. Robert Lambert P. S. Yuzon George Chaudion Christian McBrien JACKSON-MEMORIAL HOSP. USPHS HOSPITAL kUAMI. FLA. SAVANNAH. GA. Sverro Leknes Alexander P. Copa Louis C- Miller USPHS HOSPITAL Allen D. Edenfield James T7 Moore • BOSTON. MASS. Rufus L. Fields - John H. Morris Frank Alasavlch Clarence Storey Jimmie LitUeton Ernest H. Webb Alfred Hancock Angelo J. Martins SEASIDE MEMORIAL HOSP. USPHS HOSPITAL LONG BEACH. CALIF. BALTIMORE, MD. Bjom A. Granberg John Altstatt Robert M. Kirkwood USPHS HOSPITAL John Anton Clyde Leggett NORFOLK. VA. .Benjamin Balcer Timothy l.ess Francis Boner Joseph MuUer John Bokus George Little Walter Butterton Charles Phelps" Charles BouskUa Robert Littleton William Mason Robert Renfrou Delvini Brodeur . Robert McKnewJesse R. Matthews Jesse Voliva Byrd Buzbee Edmund MarshOTARITY HOSPITAL E. Delacrus Thomas Mungo NEW ORLEANS. LA. Leo Dwyer Stephen Musco ^ George Books Louis Firlie George Olive ! USPHS HOSPITAL Ferdinand Forte Eugene Plahn GALVESTON. TEXAS Gorman Glaze D. G. Robinson Roy E. Curtis Andrew Noronha. George Godwin Robert W. Scales Fred FaU Irvin Ranew John Hannay John R. Schultz L. I. Floyd William Trice ' Roy M. HaWes William Simmons Benjamin Grice John T. Watt Norman Jackson R. H. Solheim George Litchfield James A. Winget Okol Jones G. A. W^lams •. •«»-Jefen- •Slhert wniis MacDonald's "hands across the sea" romance with Miss Margit Heikkila of Helsinki, Finland, be-> gan when he met his wife-to-be in New York in between trips. The future Mrs. MacDonald was in be­ tween trips,-too.. She's a steward­ ess on the Patricia, a Swedish pas­ senger ship. That made it a sea­ faring romance on both sides. 24-Hbur Wait Before long, MacDonald was headed for the altar on Saturday, February 18 to be exact. But there were some difficulties to overcome first. New York has a 24-hour wait for marriage licenses and the bride-to-be was set to sail aboard the I^tricia on Sunday the 19th. Under some circumstances it's possible to get a waiver of the waiting period. .Welfare Services went to work and got the waiver. The delay on the waiver though, carried matters past the normal Miss Margit Heikkila signs the book In Brooklyn Marriage License closing time for the Marriage Li­ Bureau before being wed to Seafarer William MacDonald. Look­ cense Bureau in Brooklyn. After ing on (left) is Seafarer Maurice "Duke" Duet, who served as a some more phone calls, Deputy witness to the marriage ceremony. City Clerk Joseph D. Comite gen­ erously agreed to keep the office Gould, and another Seafarer to to make her ship. The wedding open after hours. Always obliging. serve as the necessary witnesses. over, she went aboard the Patricia Welfare Services then sent along The couple was able to get mar­ the next day for its Caribbean one of its representatives, Tom ried and Mrs. MacDonald was able cruise. (The ship rides between New York and the Caribbean in the winter, and Sweden and Eng­ land in the summer months.) Mac­ Donald went back to the SIU head­ quarters hall to find a good one on the board. The most important problem Evi(3ently deciciing to test the Union's follow-through on a that arose, of course, was the maintenance beef, the Alcoa Steamship Company attempted question of getting his new bride to hard-time Seafarer Edison Brown on a maintenance and permission to enter the US as a permanent resident. Welfare cure claim. The only result Services quickly got the necessary was to sock itself with a bill to the Baltimore SIU hall and the legal documents drafted and sent for back maintenance, court Union contacted the hospital re­ off to Immigration here in th'e costs and legal fees, because the questing the clinical abstract, which Stales. Meanwliile, Mrs. MacDon­ Union went to bat immediately to was forwarded, and another week's ald will be making application for assure Brown all the maintenance maintenance paid. a visa in her native city. he was entitled to. The next week though, on Christ­ If all goes well, the visa should Brown suffered a fractured ver­ mas Eve, the company agent came come through in six weeks to three tebra in his spine as the result of up with a new demand. This time months and the Macdonaid family an injury aboard the Alcoa Pointer. he wanted a narrative summary will settle down to married life He was put in a body cast and then which in effect represents a com­ Stateside. treated on outpatient status at the plete report on the case. Other­ Baltimore Public Health hospital. wise, he said, the company would For several weeks Brown had been not pay maintenance any more.' The hospital, in turn, said that collecting maintenance from the Alcoa agent in Baltimore with it could not provide such reports the presentation of the usual "unfit on every patient because it would mean too much of a burden on its for duty" slip. staff. On December 15, the hospital The deaths of the following Sea­ 'Go Ahead And Sue' took the cast off, took some X-rays farers have been reported to the and then put Brown In a new cast. Since Brown was still in a cast Seafarers Welfare Plan and the Brown went up to the Alcoa office and had no other source of income, in his cast to collect ano'ther week's he brought his beef to the Union. $2,500 death benefits are being maintenance. To his astonishment, The SIU called the company's paid to their beneficiaries: the agent turned him down saying headquarters in New York and was James R. Cassady, 22: Brother that he would have to get a clinical informed that the company would Cassady died of leukemia in the abstract. not pay without the narrative sum­ USPHS hospital In New Orleans, The Injured Seafarer went back mary. The Seafarer, a company La., on December 26, 1954. Place representative said, could "go of burial Is not known. The Alcoa ahead and sue" if he wanted to. Cavalier was the last ship Brother Immediately, the office of Sey­ Cassady sailed aboard. mour W. Miller, the Union's gen­ i. eral counsel, went to work on the Henry N. Grant, 64: Brother case. Suit was filed through asso­ Under the rules of the Va­ ciate counsel Sol Berenholtz in the Grant died on January 4, 1955, in cation Plan as set forth by the port of Baltimore. Just before the Mayaguez, Puerto Rico. Joining trustees, a Seafarer must ap­ case came up, the company threw the Union In 1942, in New York, ply within one year "of the in the sponge. It agreed to pay Brother Grant had been sailing in payoff date of his oldest dis­ $440 worth of maintenance due, the steward department. He is charge in order to collect his and all expenses including court survived by his sister, Adina Grant full vacation benefits. If he costs and, of course, legal fees to of New York City. ^ 4) 4" presents any discharge v/hose its own counsel. The case was han­ payoff date is more than a John M. Pinkus, 67: On January dled at no charge to the Seafarer year before the date of his va­ since it represented Union enforce­ 14, 1955 Brother Pinkus died in cation application, he will lose ment of a contract provision. - • Boston, Mass. Place of burial is out on the sea time covered Brown is still collecting his St. Joseph Cemetery in Boston, by that particular discharge. maintenanco and will continue tp Mass. Brother Pinkus joined the Don't sit on those .discharges. do so until he is certified fit for Union in 1939 in Boston and had Bring them in and collect the duty. Nothing more has been been sailing in the deck departmoney that is due to you. heard from the company about nar­ meqt. His beneficiary is Miss Ger­ trude Carey of Boston,, Mass. rative summaries. -C I • ••.J- Co. Finds Playing Scrooge Expensive Hobby After All BonH Wait, Get Vaeatian Pay •I'M �w'i ^'^•y:^'''i':(-i' ','\''i' £•. f;\- SEAFARERS LOG • OFFICIAL ORGAN OF THE SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION • ATLANTIC AND GULP DISTRICT • AFL • S,- 115:';i? '£- -•. BOUND VOLUMES OF ALL 1954 ISSUES OF THE SEAFARERS LOG kk'' IS^: I; ^ : t Handsome, bound volumes of the SEAFARERS LOG for the entire year of 1954 are now available to LOG read­ ers for addition to ship's libraries and home bookshelves. The sturdy, cloth-bound volumes contain all 26 issues of the LOG published last year—nearly 600 pages of news, photo­ graphs and specialized features dealing with SIU activities and maritime happenings generally. Priced at $5.50 each, the 1954 bound volumes of the LOG serve as a handy reference source not^only for Union and maritime news, but also for many personal items about Seafarers, their families, the ships and the ports that they visit. New developments in the industry, innovations in ship design and on-the-job aids, as well as historical ma­ terial on the folklore of the sea, help round out these issues. Ji i'fr; Ifi-- I;:- ||:..' ; •&?-«•;.'•'. -5 f •: 4" 4" _ For the benefit of those who have missed out on pre­ vious years' volumes, a complete set of bound volumes of 'the LOG for 1947 through 1954 is also available, at a cost of $30. This includes all LOGs published from 1947 through the end of 1954, a total of 10 volumes, since sepa­ rate volumes were issued for each six-month period dur­ ing 1947 and 1948. Both the individual 1954 volumes and the complete set of 1947-54 volumes can be obtained directly at SIU head­ quarters or by mail, iVith the coupon provided on this page. t ^. r Editor, SEAFARERS LOG 675 Fourth Avenue Brooklyn 32, New York ^ Please send me the following: (a) ..bound volumes of the 1954 SEAFARERS LOG @ $5.50 each. (b) .complete sets of bound volumes of the SEAFARERS LOG for 1947 through 1954 @ $30 each. Enclosed is a total of $ ^ H ^ NAME m- ADDRESS 5 ii � 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 1950-1959 Description An account of the resource Volumes XII-XXI of the Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993 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 March 4, 1955 Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America 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. XVII, No. 5 Description An account of the resource Headlines: HOUSE BODY RAPS FOUL-UPS OVER '50-50' AND TRANSFERS MA CHIEF GETS NEW GO'VT JOB 18 SEEK SIU SCHOLARSHIP LA. SEATRAIN DOCK BLAZE DELAYS SHIP HOOVER REPORT PROPOSES END TO ALL USPHS HOSPS TV EYE AGAIN FOCUSED SIU BALTIMORE HALL MCLEAN SIGNS SIU PACT; PLANS TRAILER-SHIP FLEET LAID-UP TANKER TURNS TURTLE MARK FURUSETH'S BIRTH UNIONS TEAM UP TO BURY MASS. ANTI-LABOR BILL SEAFARERS BRAVE RAGING SEA TO AID FHISHING BOAT SEAFARERS HELP FETE GAY NO MARDI GRAS BOUND LOGS READY SUP MARKS 70TH YEAR, MANY GAINS NY ALCOA RUNS GAIN 3 SHIPS SEA CHEST OPENS IN BALTIMORE FUTURE GRIM, SAIGON ON FEVERISH BENDER 'MAGNA CHARTA' OF SEA 40 YEARS OLD TODAY THE WHIPPING BOY ROLL-ON, ROLL-OFF WHALING IS BIG BUSINESS - PETROLEUM MAKES IT SO WHEN IN ROME TANKER AFIRE, CREW OF INES GOES TO AID BIGGER OFFICE PROVIDED FOR HQ WELFARE WELFARE FOLLOWS THROUGH ON AID TO SEAFARER'S WIFE - AND THE BRIDE CAUGHT HER SHIP CO. FINDS PLAYING SCROOGE EXPENSIVE HOBBY AFTER ALL Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 3/4/1955 1955 Periodicals Seafarers Log