http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/b305b2b3e2d2f43561f58af3ff2ac577.PDF 8fb7cc1dcab25248f7f21a1665018ece PDF Text Text I > ' I SEAFARERS*LOG "r s i OFFICIAL ORGAN OF THE SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION • ATLANTIC, GULF, LAKES AND INLAND WATERS DISTRICT • AFL-CIO ii'i- ! h' h / / i:.-.. ^ �li Report of the President mm: Brother Seafarers: i^-f-iSnS-. -.1-C-V;-! .•;}!T>; , - alpsagif-j liiliii i-'V; J.-.t'" '-T J •" „- - •iifis tW tW&Si& 'V', >;•'< ' "A- ^ -T" ' ' • ' - •piia«ii S»#!SteK nw^ u . This special issue of the Log is a report to you on an event that will become a milestone in the history of the SIU. I refer to the first Seafarers Educational Conference held at Piney Point in the first two weeks of March. That meeting, at which, in the best sense of union democracy, 250 men met and discussed their union today and their hopes and plans for the union tomorrow, will aid us all in the days ahead. The decisions made by the elected delegates will give all of us—rank-and-file members and union officials, alike—^goals to be achieved, purposes to work for and the direction in which to sail in the coming years. For it is the members speaking in the position papers we proudly print here. I say proudly because the men who came as delegates looked into every facet of the union and came away with a better understanding than they had before. That was the purpose of the conference and that is why it was such a great success. Because they understood the SIU better, they asked better questions, took better positions and made a lasting contribution to the continued strength of this union. The resolutions, then, are the voice of the people, the people of this union. As officers we are charged with the high duty of seeing that that voice is heard and that it brings results for all the members. I intend to see that the will of the people, expressed.through the voice of their delegates, is carried out. It is highly apparent that the educational conference will stand as the jumping-off place for what we expect to be a decade of growth and progress, as well as one of struggle and sacrifice. It is healthy for us to have this kind of participation, the kind that leads to solid accomplishment and our thanks go to the men who participated so intently and earnestly in the conference. On a personal level, it was good to see so many Seafarers gathering to get a job done—a job they performed with what hasalways been the Seafarers' will to improve their union. Old friendships were renewed, new ones begun. All adding weight to our motto of the "Brotherhood of the Sea." We all can be proud of the men who came to Piney Point in March. Proud be­ cause their accomplishments matched our hopes. Proud because they refused to ac­ cept the standard answers and sought, and got, the deeper more meaningful informa­ tion. Proud because they acted so responsibly in the interests of their Brother Sea­ farers. In the pages that follow, you wiU see the shaping of the future of the SIU, done by the men who know it best, those who have the greatest stake in its continued success—the membership at large. These are their words, their thoughts, their aspirations. And these should be an inspiration to us all. m <9. •*?::'.u :. f r: -y%> .V •> f' i J . H. i' 3J ; Vl ftflilifilill r-H 1 ' 9 tI .' I ':/• —l yj. J ^ ? : Y.« : siMiil iitiiiia I gliiilig Ej> - / - t- .•,! K f V < i ? i' i .:X '* 'i i' ^ ' € 'li r. -i 'V .> ( Page 2 Seafarers Log �• i nATASnUDKUM Seafarers Educational Conference ! li A Special Report Piney Point, Md. This is a special report to the members of the Seafarers Interntaional Union, a report based on the first Seafarers Educational Conference. It is a report prepared by the 250 rank-andfile Seafarers who attended the two-week con­ ference here as elected delegates from 14 major ports. The recommendations and the conclusions of these delegates, contained in unanimouslyadopted position papers, cover all of the major subjects discussed during the conference. Those recommendations and conclusions will help to shape the policies of the SIU for many years to come. They will help to set our goals. They will help to establish the means for reach­ ing those goals. One immediate result of these recommenda­ tions is the establishment of a series of educa­ tional conferences, as called for by the dele­ gates "to give other SIU members the opportu­ nity to take part in, and develop points of view on, those matters which have so great an effect on their lives." Such conferences already are underway and in the planning. Recommendations such as this one were the result of the free exchange of ideas between delegates and union officials, an exchange of ideas which led to a new understanding of our common problems. To help achieve this understanding, delegates took up for study nine major topics, as follows: • The history of the labor movement in gen­ eral and the SIU in particular. • The union and the law, the legal issues which today confront the SIU and many other labor organizations. • The SIU contract—^the document which '4 I ^ .4 i. ! » •* ! . I '• spells out the wages and working conditions of every Seafarer. • Political education and political action, the fight to improve the sailor's life through better laws. • Pension, Welfare and Vacation Programs— plans descried during the conference as "a reality shaped from an old dream.'' Education in all its phases: Trade union, vocational and academic. • The SIU Constitution, the rule Seafarers live by both aboard ship and ashore. • The Harry Lundeberg School of Seaman­ ship, our stake in the future. • Shipboard meetings and behavior. This special report contains the position papers formulated by the delegates on these topics. It also contains a conclusion, a special report summing up the work of the conference and the general ideas of the delegates. In addition, it contains the reports of the various delegates who served as workshop chair­ men each day, reports which were delivered to a general assembly of all delegates each after­ noon of the conference. The position papers and reports of the work­ shop chairmen are followed by comments from individual delegates, essays which reveal their feelings about the union, its programs and the value of the conference itself. This, then, is truly a publication for and by Seafarers. It was written by the 250 delegates to the Seafarers Educational Conference. It has been edited only for purposes of size and edi­ torial style. It contains criticism as well as praise. But along with the criticism and praise, it contains the ideas, the ideals, the hopes and the dreams of the members of this imion. It is a very special document. , \ May 1_971 ''1 " Page 3 �SEAFARKRM^LOO SIU History: Lessons from the Past The history of the SIU is the story of our kind of people Seafarers. From the time man first went to sea in ships, the seaman has had a life far diflferent than that of men who made their living in jobs ashore. The situation is no different today. Seafarers still have special problems, special wants, special needs that stem from their Unique occupation. SEArABBR«j^I.OC May 1971 Special Issue Oaicial Publication of the Seafarers International Union of North America, Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District, AFL-CIO Executive Board Paul Hall, President Cal Tanner Earl Shepard Shepard Exec. Vice-Pres. Vice-President Lindsey Williams AlKerr Vice-President Bee.-Trees. A1 Tanner Vice-President Robert Matthews Vice-President Published mon^^ at 810 Rhode Island Avenue N.E., Washington, D.C. 20018 by the Seafarers Interna­ tional Union, Atlantic, Gidf. Lakes and Inland Waters District, AFLCIO, 675 Fourth Avenue, Brook­ lyn, N.T. 11232. Tel. 499-6600. Sec­ ond class postage paid at Wash­ ington, D.C. POSTMASTER'S ATTENTION: Form 3579 cards should be sent to Seafarers International Union. Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District, AFL-CIO, 675 Fourth Avenue, Brooklyn, N.T. 11232. These targets brought to our SIU the challenge of entering effectively the legislative and political arenas—areas that have enormous influence on our industry, and thus on our* jobs and our security as Seafarers. As the history of the SIU so vividly shows, we have demon­ strated an awareness of the problems that are critical to our own well-being. We of the SIU have emerged as one of the strongest and most effective forces promoting the development of a viable merchant marine industry in the United States, The history of the Seafarers International Union is the story of struggle, challenge and achievement. It is the story of what Seafarers have done and are doing to make a better life for our­ selves and our families. Our current history proves that the SIU knows that only through revitalization of the American-flag fleet will Seafarers have any job security—let alone the opportunity to better our lives. Our conference activities on the history of the SIU were devoted to the study, review and discussion of the men of the sea. We gave special emphasis to the story of our union, from its founding in the uncertain and bitter days of 1938 to the complex issues that confront Seafarers and the maritime industry today. Because of the collective foresight, energies and determination of our union, we in the SIU family enjoy a degree of security and benefits unmatched by those in any other segment of the Americanflag merchant marine—and this in spite of the continuing decline in American-flag shipping. We were able to trace our history effectively through the new film, "Tomorrow Is Also A Day," and a wide range of other in­ formative documents telling of . the role of the Seafarer and his union in winning the better life. The long years of sacrifice and hard work were climaxed last year with the passage of the Merchant Marine Act of 1970 which provides new hope for American shipping and the men who man our ships—Seafarers. We reviewed the early vicious struggle for survival against the combined strength of anti-union management, pro-manage­ ment government and the constant efforts of the Communist Party to seize control of the lives and destinies of American seamen. But as our history clearly shows, new problems carrying new challenges will face us. We are confident that we are equipping ourselves to meet them. We are confident because we have built a union that is alert to these problems, to these challenges. We saw and, for many of us, relived the days when the Sea­ farer was called upon to defend our nation's liberty during World War II, during the Korean War and in the Vietnam conflict. With the end of World War II came the expansion of the SIU through the use of its militancy and determination to bring to the unorganized seamen aboard American-flag vessels the benefits of unionism. Through this SIU organizing activity we became stronger. And with that strength we pioneered new worlds in collective bargain­ ing for Seafarers. We established a Pension Plan, our Health and Welfare Program, our Vacation Plan—benefits that before this time had been but a dream to the men of the sea. As the union achieved economic success and job security for Seafarers, it formed programs to bring job opportunity and a better future through battles that had to be fought in areas far removed from the bargaining table. As an integral part of this program, the SIU developed strategies and policies to combat those who would destroy the American-flag merchant marine—^the "runaway" ship operators; the governmental agencies who would have dumped the Americanflag fleet in favor of foreign-flag shipping—a whole range of enemies who would have destroyed our fleet, and with it eliminated our jobs, This alertness has brought the establishment of an educational center that is as unique as the Seafarer himself. The Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship at Piney Point, Md., is the heart of a program of academic and vocational training, as well as the center for conferences and programs for SIU members geared to keeping Seafarers constantly aware and informed of their union and their industry. From this facility will flow to old timers and young men alike the information and knowledge required to keep the SIU strong—that will give it the flexibility to face and meet the chal­ lenges of the future. Again we say, the history of our SIU is the story of our people. While many of us are personally familiar with this history, it is mandatory that every Seafarer—to be effective in working toward the best interest of himself, his family and his union—^know in­ timately the story of his union, its trials and its successes. We therefore recommend that our union utilize all available re­ sources of communication—films, pamphlets and other materials which provide historical information—^in every possible way to make the history of the SIU available to our members, ashore and aboard ships, and to their families in their homes. -2" .U We know that all Seafarers will take pride in the story of the SIU—a continuing story of our collective achievements. I. Delegates at work, taking part in a research project. Page 4 I , Seafarers Log.( ^ I *. . �Workshop Chairman Report on SlU History I. K. Coats Workshop Coats At this morning's session, group one covered 32 years of SIU history in capsule form—many of you here are part of that history, I'm sure we all recognize the struggles and appreciate the victories—not always getting 100 percent, but striving toward that end—^never forgetting those who were casualties along the way in those struggles. One idea brought forth this morning, to better inform the entire membership, and to generate interest in SIU history: To compile a package of short, informational pamphlets in series se­ quence covering in detail, with photos and documentation, the relevant struggles and results encountered by the SIU. This could be a His­ torical Pamphlet Series dedicated to producing an alert, intelligent membership. Don Bartlett Workshop #5 I am glad to have this opportunity to meet and talk with by brother seamen and many old friends. In the material dealing with labor his­ tory of the SIU, I recalled many incidents and conditions that I experienced over the past 30 years. As an SIU member, I know that I have been a part of that history; a history that has recorded an ever-improving lot in life for the seamen. To mention a few: health benefits, vacation pay, pension plans; better wages, job rights and shipboard conditions. Last but not least, I have been privileged to witness history in the con­ struction and putting into operation this Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship. I feel this institution fathered by the SIU will leave a profound and lasting mark on the pages of labor history. Bartlett Vincent Pizzitolo Workshop #2 Albert Saxon I represent the delegation from New Orleans, Workshop #2. This morning, we had a discus­ sion about something I never even knew existed in this union: The history of the SIU, which started in 1938 until its present time right now. I want to say that if anybody that really ap­ preciates the union it should be me. I came out of the service in 1951 after serving 12 years, without a job. I had no place to look forward to or nothing, I was just like a bum you might say. I came to Mr. Lindsey Williams and Buck Stevens. I asked them for help. Without even batting an eye, I got all the help I needed; they put me on a ship and I have been going ever since. This has been a good life for me. Workshop #6 Now this Piney Point is not just a happening, it was well-planned. And that planning is going to keep us going for years to come. 'Cause if you remember back a few years, the government and the shipowners wanted to start a school of their own. In other words, they're going to start another fink hall. Instead of shipping union men out, they're going to ship finks out. But this here put a stop to them, and that was all planned and it's backed by the membership. And that's why I say we cannot stress too much on leader­ ship and unity, because as long as we got that, by God, none of them can beat us. And we'll last till hell freezes over. PizsitfJo Saxon Harold Ducloux Workshop #3 Ducloux The great years in my estimation and of significance to the maritime movement as a whole and the SIU in particular were in 1854, the birth of Andrew Furuseth; 1885, the SUP had its origin; 1901, the birth of Harry Lunde­ berg—very great man, 1914, the first World War and all shipping was done through hiring halls. In 1915 the first legislation passed for seamen—that sort of gave us all freedom— you've heard these black people aroimd here talk about freedom, well I wfil tell you right now that the seaman wasn't free either and that they got their freedom first in 1915. In 1921 we had the wage cuts and refusal to recognize union halls—this was done as a coalition be­ tween the shipping board and the shipowners. In 1934 we had a general strike. In 1938 the SIU was bom when Harry Lunde­ berg, the late Harry Lundeberg, obtained a charter from the AFL. Robert Byrd Workshop #7 1 would like to say that we in class 7 have dis­ cussed the many problems the labor movement has had since the first trade union came into existence in 1794. We begin to realize and to know of the many issues that involve the labor movement. We just begin to realize the struggle to have what we enjoy today. The bloody strikes that we in the SIU have had since our charter was issued in 1938, the men that have died, that are crippled, that are in hospitals, in prison. The ups and downs of the labor movement, the varied setbacks and struggles that the SIU has had is no different today than what history has shown us it was in the past. Byrd W. Simmons Workshop #8 Eric Joseph Workshop #4 You know a great many of our guys take his­ tory for granted and some seem to think that the wages and overtime, and the pension, wel­ fare, and the vacation benefits, working condi­ tions, etc., were given to us on a silver platter. Well this was certainly not the case. These successes came about only as a result of long, hard struggles on the part of our un­ ion, and they were not won easily, or lightly. These are difficult changing times that we in maritime are living in and we must be able to cope with these changes in order to protect the vital interests of our members and their families. I am interested in the history of the union, being a member of a number of years. I went through a lot of these strikes and most of the beefs off and on. And enjoyed all of it, and I knew what the hell I was fighting for: a job, a chance to live, a chance to be called a man not a bum. I have done a little cursing myself at the officials, till 1 found out I was wrong or proven wrong. I would like to just a little bit look back on some of the conditions we've got and what I'm extremely proud of in the last few years is the scholarship program. I was a little bit reluctant to get too interested in it because I thought it was just for somebody being picked. But my son was picked last year. So you fel­ lows can see I am a pretty happy man. Simmons Page 5 �The Union—And the Law As the Seafarers International Union has become more and more a dynamic factor in our industry and in our society, we have found ourselves endlessly con­ fronted with the legal aspects surrounding our ac­ tivities. Government agencies increasingly impose more and more legalistic red tape at the local, state and federal levels. Regulations governing union pension plans, health and welfare programs and related union opera­ tions all require a greater involvement of a legal character. This is evident in areas where the federal govern­ ment has restricted union activities—through regula­ tions invoked in the repressive Taft-Hartley and Landrum-Griffin Laws, for example. And now we see yet another area of government activity that challenges us on the legal front. This involves the open attack by government agencies and individuals on the SIU for actions taken in pursuit of our membership's well-being in the implementation of member-approved policies. One form of this attack upon the SIU has come through the indictment of the union and some of its officials and employees rising from the effective opera­ tion of the union's political action arm, the Seafarers Political Activities Donations fund. In this case, the indictments came in spite of the fact that the union complied in detail with every law concerning the reporting of contributions to and ex­ penditures from SPAD. We have kept ourselves in compliance with every government regulation, re­ porting openly and publicly every dollar received and every contribution made for political activity. It is obvious that for the SIU to continue to func­ tion, we must defend our right to participate fully in the political processes of our democracy. We cannot, we will not surrender this inalienable right, no matter how awesomely powerful the agency that seeks to deny us this right may be. The SIU membership is sohdly on record in its determination to fight these indictments with all of the resources and strength it can command. In addition, the AFL-CIO has recorded its concern over the indictments, condemning them as harrassment tactics and an attack on the entire trade union movement. It is apparent that Seafarers are fully aware of the issues involved in this attempt to deny us participation in our nation's political process. The union has con­ tinued to keep the membership informed of all de­ velopments in this situation. We recommend to our fellow Seafarers everywhere to continue to discuss the full implications of this unwarranted attempt to stop our political activities so that everyone under- stands just how vitally the issue affects our union, and thus, each of us. This conference reaffirms the position previously taken by the membership in monthly meetings and at shipboard meetings to fight the indictment of our un­ ion with every available weapon. In fact, we call upon the union to increase our political activities through SPAD, because this is our right as free citizens in a democratic society; and because it is essential to Seafarers to use political ac­ tivity to promote our industry in order to obtain the maximum possible security for the future. • li Competent legal protection and other assistance must be provided to members who are faced with legal situations or charges threatening their personal liberties. This was the meaning behind the establish­ ment in 1967 of the Maritime Defense League. This Conference reminds every SIU member of the continuing importance of the Maritime Defense League. We urge that it be given the full support of all Seafarers. • Til We further call for a continuation of our union's policy of fighting against all anti-union legislation and of fighting for laws that will assure Seafarers and their fellow workers in America the full right to exercise their fundamental freedoms as citizens of a democracy. The photos across the top of this page show delegates hard at work in their workshop sessions taking up the complicated subject of the legal issues facing the SIU today. There was time, however, for some relaxation. Photo at right shows delegates aboard one of the pleasure craft located at the Harry Lundeherg School of Seamanship. •rj Page 6 /f'i Seafarers tog J fiiS' �Workshop Chairman Report on Legal Issues Harry Houston Tony Arcenaux Workshop #7 Workshop #S Gentlemen, workshop #1 had a very fine discussion this morning on our legal aspects and, brothers, we're well informed now. We know where our money goes. What I'd like to bring out here is before, SPAD, COPE and the Mari­ time Defense Fund were just words to us. To­ day we see it. And since the 1970 Maritime Act, we really know where our dollars are going. Now that we have a few real friendly and ap­ preciative senators and representatives who need our political help, the bucks will be easier to part with. The Martime Act of 1970 is worth the dough only if we continue punching dollars into the fund to see that it is carried out and maintained and not lost after w&'ve almost won the battle. The government is trying to knock us out and is trying to bring down the Seafarers' Interna­ tional, and I think every member of this union should fight against all these indignities that have come upon our officials. I will fight it 100 percent as a member of this union. You know, in the beginning of '36, the Wagner Act gave labor organizations a lawful right and the protection of the National Rela­ tions Board. But, sometimes, in my own opinion, I wonder if that act was ever carried out through our government. And I wish to say this, at my ending, that I am thankful and I pray to the Almighty God that everything will work out per­ fect for our officials and give us a better under­ standing and a much tighter SIU. Houston Arcenaux Gilbert Delgado Workshop #2 This morning, we studied about the legal as­ pects and some of the best readings I have ever heard from men, seamen, my age, even some older. We took these pages and read them, and that way everyone understood them. When we came to what is termed as the "Trojan Horse"— I studied about the "Trojan Horse" in 1931. I had completely forgotten what it exactly was. Then tve went into the Maritime Defense League, which is a great thing. I think we should all back it up 100 percent. Money is hothing, fellows, if we don't use it in the right place. A twenty dollar bill, we'll throw it on a card, throw it on a bar, maybe give it to someone we shouldn't. I think we should give it to the De­ fense League. Paul L Hunt Workshop ^6 I'd like to express my gratitude at being able to come down here with the rest of you, and I hope I'll be able to come to any future con­ ferences. And I would also like to mention the good jobs that the instructors are doing for us here in answering our questions and keeping our attention to what they are trying to teach "us. After this morning's class, I feel that I've learned a heck of a lot more about our legal assistance and the problems our union is having right now with Washington and other organiza­ tions that are against us, and I hope that our donations and whatever money we can help with will help to get this all straightened out. We studied legal assistance for our union and the importance of this assistance. I'd like to say that I am very gjad I went to this particular class this morning, because I found out some things I didn't know. Delgado Hunt Bernie Kazmierski Workshop #3 The present indictment against our union and our officials because of the SPAD donations which we, the members, donated for political activities. Our union officials and union was indicted because of this. Now, our union officials are going to be faced with a court trial that is going to cost us plenty of money. This is one of the many reasons for our defense fund. If we did not have the defense fund, our union officials could not stand the cost of this trial. They would be put in hock. Their homes would probably have to be sold to raise money to defend themselves to keep from going to jail for something, if they are guilty, which I don't believe they are. So, in summary of this, it seems that in this society there are two sets of rules: (1) for labor; (2) for management. I firmly believe that if these indictments should be held up in court that it means the end of unions, of our participation in the political arena. Stan Cieslak Workshop #7 I hadn't realized the processes he sets in mo­ tion when a member merely goes to the hall to register. The legal battles and manuevering that our officials are daily engaged in, in the areas of job protection and protection of members and officials. I think it's time to reaffirm the policies that Bob Matthews made on Feb. 6, 1967, on the establishment of the Maritime Defense League and on the need of full membership sup­ port of that. We can see that since the shoemakers in Phila­ delphia in 1794 tried to organize, that the bosses will try to use any means to prevent unions, and will subvert and attempt to destroy any union that does manage to organize. Now they are using the government itself with its nearly un­ limited resources to stop unionism and, if possible, to destroy our only protections. Cieslak Kazmierski It.' Koflowiteh May 1971 William Koflowiteh Ed Brewer Workshop #4 Workshop #8 In our workshop this morning we studied and discussed various legal issues. You know, I have been accused of being a sea lawyer and in all honesty I will have to plead guilty to that charge. I mean guilty, with an explanation. That explanation is this: anything that involves me personally is certainly important enough to take my interest and learn as much as I possibly can. And I must confess I never did realize how little 1 really do know about the law and how it can affect me personally. But I can tell you one thing, I intend to find out as much as I can from this point on. I want to urge each and every delegate at this conference to do the same thing. And, furthermore, it is up to us to take these messages back to our home ports and aboard our next ship and to tell our brothers and sisters and shipmates what the true story is. We found the trend from fist fights to court of law fights in the defense of the individual, also political fights on the floor of the House of Rep­ resentatives and in the Hall of Congress in Washington, D.C., in defense of and for the very survival of the unions. The legal eagles have be­ come, and are, the prime basic necessity for that survival. I used the plural term unions to in­ clude our affiliates since Paul explained yester­ day the importance of this unity in its various aspects. It is a forgone conclusion or simple basic fact of life that if the union survives and progresses, we survive and progress. If the union goes down, we as individuals may or may not survive, and some certainly will not survive, and how about the families of our members? The enemies of our union have always, are now, and always will be, fighting and scheming to destroy us. Brewer Page 7 �SIU Vice President Earl Shepard goes over our contract, point by point, during a workshop session. Guarantees of the SIU Contract The collective bargaining contract is one of the most im­ portant of all union documents to Seafarers. It spells out item by item, detail by detail, what a union man is entitled to for his day's wok from the ship­ owner. From the days before union contracts existed to the present time of carefully, fully-detailed agreements between the union and the employer, we can trace the growing economic achieve­ ment and security of Seafarers. Over the years, the SIU has nailed down in its contracts in­ creasing improvements for Sea­ farers on every phase of ship­ board employment and wel­ fare, beginning with the recog­ nition of the union hiring hallthe keystone of all job security. Today, in terms of total con­ tractual benefits, the SIU mem­ bers enjoy the finest in earn­ ings, conditions and job secu­ rity in the nation. The Contract is the book by which Seafarers work. It is their guarantee of the protec­ tion of their dignity on the job. Clearly, every SIU man should be familiar with the pro­ visions of his contract—both the general provisions and those covering his particular job. Should he be abused or short-changed in any way, he should take advantage of the union's grievance and contract enforcement procedures to assiure that he gets all that he is entitled to. It is equally important that he know the difference between a good contract beef and one for which there is no justifica­ tion. As has been pointed out by various delegates at this con­ ference, the American-flag mer­ chant marine has been steadily declining. Many of our ships are over age, or are rapidly approaching that condition. This is a situation that we loolc to the implementation of the Merchant Marine Act of 1970 to correct. This is a situation that is definitely related to the con­ tract, because it demands that we exercise a responsibility to assure that the maximum num­ ber of jobs will be kept avail­ able for our people. Our union, many years ago, reached a position of strength where it could, upon demand, obtain virtually anything it wished from the shipowner. But because of the marginal condi­ tion and the stress of low-cost foreign-flag competition, we have been forced to exercise the utmost caution in order not to drive out of business those operators who could not afford to stay in business. Other unions have not exer­ SBAFABBRS^IHLOO cised the same restraint. As a result, they are today facing economic chaos because of the overwhelming ratio of men to contracted jobs. The SIU enjoys the highest ratio of jobs to men of any sedgoing union in the United States. On the basis of develop­ ments since the passage of the Merchant Marine Act of 1970, it appears that we will be able to improve the security and op­ portunity of Seafarers and their families. This fact shows that SIU policies have been correct— that we have exercised wisdom in projecting the course of the maritime industry. We have reviewed in depth every aspect of the SIU con­ tract and shipboard union ac­ tivities. As a result, we call upon the union to review and consider for the next contract negotia­ tions; • The possibility of provid­ ing alternatives in event the designated ratings are imable or unwilling to accept the posi­ tions of the committee chair­ man, educational director or secretary-reporter of the ships' committees. • Provisions for an alternate day for the shipboard meeting in the event a vessel is in port on a Sunday. • Raising deck maintenance vacation pay to the level of that received by other Group I ratings. • Provisions for new job de­ scriptions in accordance with the technological changes in new vessels. • Crew's quarters on older ships be modernized and made more comfortable. • The initiation of an up­ grading program for cooks and stewards. • Compensation for crews on containerships with fast turn-around. • A review of Section 39, Article 2 relating to securing a ship for sea before it leaves a harbor. • The advisability of keep­ ing the six-month shipping lim­ itation on "B" seniority or re­ turning to a 60-day rule in view of present shipping con­ ditions. • Development of an edu­ cational program to better in­ form the members of ships' committees. The SIU contract will con­ tinue to be a vital document to every Seafarer. But as al­ ways, it is a reflection of the changing technology of our in­ dustry. We are certain that we must meet the demands of the new technology in terms of pre­ serving the competitive posi­ tion of our industry, consistent with the union's traditional pol­ icy of protecting the rights and security of the membership. >1 1 .i II t!f| •i II M! Delegates in genera! session listen attentively as the expert explain the details of the SIU contract. I V Page 8 Seafarers Log �Workshop Chairmen Report on Contract Robert Clarke iVorkshop #/ We all know what a union contract is, but let me refresh your memories. A union contract is a written negotiation between the SIU and companies. It is to protect our living conditions, wages, overtime rates, and job security and work rules. I "know and I am sure some of you know, what it is like to work on a non-contract ship. There is a difference. We have a good con­ tract now with the SIU contracted vessels and with the leadership that we have, our contract has been improved each and every time. And believe me, the leadership in the SIU we have today is going to fight for us and improve every contract fro mhere on in. J. R. (Duke) Wilson )Vorkshop I will try to tell you how we can better our­ selves in using our contract while aboard ship. As you all know, we refer to our contract as our Bible when in doubt. As the old saying goes, write it out. Now that is true, but you must really be in doubt or otherwise you will cause mass confusion at the payoff as well as on the ship's cruise. Now, how can we eliminate this situation? Well, I will tell you my theory, and what I have tried to do about it through the years; First of all, understand your contract before you start writing and don't fly off the handle when the head of your department disputes something. Use a little diplomacy. Take a little time and read your contract, if in doubt, discuss it with your shipmates and your delegate. Wilson Clarke Tom Brennan Workshop #2 This morning in workshop #2, we discussed one of our most important instruments, our contract. And the most important part of that contract—recognition—because without recog­ nition you have nothing. And in the industry we aig. recognized as the leader. We also found out in the early days with no contract employees were at the mercy of the employer. Some of us may take for granted the contract we work under. But under the subject of labor history we found out about the early struggles our members when through to win that contract. And it's very important to pass that information on to the younger men coming ino the industry, so that they also will appre­ ciate what the oldtimers went through, and why the contract is so important. Brennan Alvin Smith Workshop #6 We discussed our union's contract in detail. We were able to find out exactly how and why various provisions and work rules came into being. I, for one, have to admit that I was not really aware of the bloody struggles and strikes that made it possible for us to enjoy the wages, overtime, working conditions and living condi­ tions that we enjoy aboard our contracted ves­ sels. As a result of participating in this educa­ tional conference I certainly have learned a great deal more of what really went in to win­ ning and establishing our present contracts and conditions. There is one other vitally important thing that I have learned at this conference and that is that the contract is a two-way street. If we expect the shipowner to live up to his side .of the agreement, we must expect to live up to our side as well. Francis Fulbright Nolan Savoie Workshop #3 Workshop #7 The SIU is in a fortunate position today, in contrast to other maritime unions, due primarily to intelligent and farsighted leadership who en­ joy the respect, confidence, and support of the rank and file. In the economic aspects of the contract we do not have the highest basic wage in the indus­ try but we do not judge a contract on this alone. In the matter of vacation, welfare, pension, and medical assistance to us and to our families, we are tops. In addition, much work done on ships that are routine duties on other union ships are overtime on some SIU ships, or in the majority of them. Our real earnings are the highest, rate for rate, of any union. Fulbriglit We discussed contract, history and welfare; reading of the Merchant Marine Act of 1970; the SIU fighting for job security for seamen— all seamen; the conditions under whiph we have to sail these ships; also helping the ship oper­ ators to stay in business in order to put doUars in our pockets. We also talked about the decline of the American fleet; about the companies going un­ der the monkey flag; about new ship being built in yards here to put more of the Ameri­ cans back to work. Ships being built are being manned by less men. We also talked about keeping American flag ships with full cargo. And we also talked about Andrew Furuseth—how he fought for 20 years in the halls of Congress for the 1915 Seaman's Act. Smith Savoie Hayward Wilson Workshop #8 Jon Stringer Workshop #4 Stringer May 1971 We found this morning that, obviously, there was no SIU before 1938, because we began in 1938. Before this the seamen worked at the whim of the employers. 1938 to 1951 there was no pension, welfare, or vacation unless you were on a ship for a full year, then you received one week—^if you got off this ship then you might not be able to go back to work, if they didn't want to let you go. 1951 to 1971 is when the main benefits were arrived at. The things we have now were hard to get. Things like washing machines, dryers, TV, clean linens, soap—they never supplied them before. It was common to work 12-hour days; now we have 8-hour days. We've been in Piney Point for three days. We have learned three aspects of our SIU. One, history; two, leg^; three, contract. If we were to take anyone of these aspects away, we wouldn't have an SIU. Let's talk history for a moment. If the broth­ ers did not go out on the docks^ and picket for months at a time and stay on the strike and fight—that's right, fight—not with mouth but physical force, bats, sticks, fists. Yes, these docks are bloody. We were fighting a monster, the shipowners, since then we have grabbed him by the tail and thrown him on his head. From this we gained one of the greatest con­ tracts in the maritime history. The money we used to make in a couple of months, we now make in a couple of days. We have one of the greatest vacation benefits in the world. We have one of the best living standards since the begin­ ning of ships. Wilson Page 9 �SBAMABMl^LOQ For the Seafarer, political education and political action are as important as collective bargaining as a means of protecting their job security and achieving gains for themselves and their families. For too long, seamen neglected this vital area, and their welfare was in constant jeopardy. But in the period following World War II, the SIU recognized that politics is porkchops, too, and required careful, continuing attention if the SIU membership's security was to be fully protected. The program which was developed to meet our needs in the political arena called for effective representation on the legislative and governmental agency levels. And it demanded machinery to enable Seafarers as a group to participate in the political process through their support of candidates who would work for the best interests of the American merchant marine and those dependent upon it for their livelihood. Our political education and action program, as the record so clearly indicates, is a highly successful one. The passage of the Merchant Marine Act of 1970 is a most dramatic example. Equally important are the successful battles to prevent the enemies of American-flag shipping from destroying the Cargo Preference Laws, the difficult but constant effort to preserve the United States Public Health Service Hospitals, and the whole range of daily activities at the Washington level on every item affecting the Seafarer in scores of federal agencies and the Congress. As the SIU's effectiveness and success in this political arena increased, the enemies of the union and its positions began mount­ ing heavy attacks. Very likely, if we were not fighting as hard as we are against "runaway"-flag operators and foreign-flag operators to assure greater job security for our people, we woiild not be making enemies. And we would not be the primary target of governmental oppo­ sition if we did not oppose the State Department, the Agriculture Department and other agencies over their favored treatment of foreign-flag operators. It is likely, too, that we would not be the object of attack by the Department of Labor if we had not criticized its policies with regard to the American labor movement. Despite the attacks our policies have generated on a political level, we believe the union is correct in continuing political edu­ cation and political action programs, and in fact in intensifying them. Because the problems of Seafarers are continuing problems, we cannot diminish our activities in the effort to resolve them. Moreover SIU members are entitled and guaranteed, as Ameri­ can citizens, the right to participate in the political process. One of the means used by Seafarers to take part in their na­ tion's political processes is through the Seafarers Political Activi­ ties Donation (SPAD) organization which was established to allow our members to support political candidates who support us. SPAD gives the Seafarer a method of taking part in effective political action through his own voluntary donations. Again, we commend our political education and political action programs and policies as ^ing as important as collective bar­ gaining from the standpoint of our collective security. This conference recommends that the SIU continue and expand all aspects of its political education and political action programs. We further recommend that SIU members be encouraged to actively participate in community, state and federal elections. We also urge that the union continue its efforts to insure that all SIU members and their families register and vote in all elec­ tions. For we have learned from the past that these activities are at the heart of our collective security as Seafarers and as citizens of a free nation. .1'' i'' ''1 in I iI •'1 It was a period of spirited discussion as delegates took up the subject of political education and political action. But there was unanimity in feeling when it came time to take a firm positimi on the subject. Above, Delegate G. Delgado, Houston, leads the discussion in his workshop. Page 10 Seafarers Log �Reports on Pol if ICQ I Education and Action Cotton Robert Cotton Workshop #1 Asa Moore Workshop #5 I'm grateful to Paul Drozak, and other offi­ cials from the port of Houston, for encouraging me to come to this conference. Thus far its been time well spent. The things I have learned here these past few days has helped me to get a better over-all picture of the union and its fimctions, and I will be more than happy to participate in any future conferences held. Today we studied politics in general, and the political arm of the SIU in particular, SPAD. This was indeed interesting to all of us, as our union and its officials have been indicted for its political activities. We've found out why, and what is being done about it. We learned why our union is active in the political arena. One, is to bring about the enactment of legislation, so vital to the industry in which we are engaged. Two, to see that this legislation is properly im­ plemented. Today we talked on politics and the impor­ tance of this. Now, this is a subject I love bet­ ter than a hog loves slop. And everyone of you in the SIU knows that it is a fact that we have the SIUNA, and this membership has a polling power of over a half a million votes. If we get these members to get off their fat butts and to go forward and to go to the registrar's office and to register to vote, then we would have a strong voting power. Now we have a law on the books to help this sick, sick maritime industry. But this law ain't worth a damn if we don't get money. Now these people in their appropriations and finance com­ mittees, a lot of them are going to be up for election in 16 months. We've got to make those people on those committees that will put that money in there to make this a good deal. Moore George Qulnones Workshop #6 James Dixon Workshop #2 Today in workshop #2 we discussed politics and how politics affect each and every SIU member. We now know how SPAD almost sin­ gle-handedly keeps the 50-50 Law, Public Law No. 480 on the books, which in turn means jobs, money for the better things in life. We know now that the Merchant Marine Act of 1970 is the end result of our participation in SPAD and that we should expand our efforts concerning SPAD on a regular basis, not just once every 3 or 4 years. We really know that foreign shipping lobbies are out to finish us off. We, therefore, must continue our fight in the political arena, elect friends who believe in building more American ships and hauling more cargo. I'd like to talk about the political arena and its importance to us because that's where the action is, and we want a piece of that action— not all of it, but our fair share, at least. P. T. Barnum used to have "the greatest show on earth." But today that show is in Washington, D.C. If we look at the record, we will see that the only time that the American seaman was given the right time was when he was active political­ ly. It was only as a result of effective political action that we were able to achieve the follow-, ing: The Seaman's Act of 1915; the Merchant Marine Act of 1936; the Cargo Preference Act, better known as the 50-50 Law; the setting up of the Maritime Advisory Committee; and finally, the Merchant Marine Act of 1970, which was the ace of all aces and which is going to mean the difference for us in the future. Dixon Qulnones Everett Perry Workshop #3 We had an excellent discussion on political education. Very few seamen have the time or the inclination to stop and read the record or the voting record or tendencies of each and every delegate that is going into Congress. Therefore, we must depend on some other source. We are fortunate, extremely fortunate, that we in the SIU have a paper. The Log, which ranks second to none in ffie labor field. This isn't an accident. It didn'jt just happen. Today when we are asked for a $20 dona­ tion, to SPAD, I see and hear many of my fel­ low men raising hell about $20. Break it down, what is it? 40 cents a week. A pack of butts. For 40 cents a week you're insured that we're going to get the right men to back us out there in Congress. Jack Ryan Workshop #7 Since coming here to Piney Point, my eyes have been opened to the needs, the means, and the help that this and all of our members can participate in. This is our life, oiu* union, our lifeline, and our life ahead, and we should stand, one for all and all for one. The men with sight and integrity started to see how we could upgrade ourselves better and become voting citizens, get our voice in the capitol and be heard. This all took time and downright hard work and, most of all, money. Money was one of the main causes. So the Committee on Political Education was bom, better known as COPE. Then came SPAD (Sea­ farers Political Activity Donation) and this is where we get a percent of our working capital to help ourselves and help us in our society, political and otherwise. P«rty Frank Lebda Workshop #4 Lebda May 1971 In Workshop #4 we discussed politics about congressmen, senators, and other public officials on a better maritime bill. We discussed SPAD donations and workshop 4 feels that the mem­ bership should continue donations to SPAD in order to support public officials who bpHeve in a bigger and better merchant marine fleet. That's labor view on politics. Samuel Gompers once said 63 years ago and it still holds true: "Reward your friends and punish your enemies." Seeifarefs in politics? If we hadn't gotten into politics, there would not have been a Seaman's Act and sailors might still be slaves, as they were half a century ago, after Lincoln had freed the black man. I recommend that this educational confer­ ence go on record to continue supporting SPAD. ,- Rjan Frank Conforto Workshop #8 We discussed the subject of political educa­ tion, and when we discussed political education, as President Hall said, "All phases of our union activities are important to each and every one of us." Labor history, what it was in the past and present and what it will be in the future, the legal aspects, the SIU contract and how the SIU through the years and through the leader­ ship of !President Hall and all the SIU elected officials have fought and will continue to fight in Washington, D.C., for our benefit. The reason I mentioned the subjects that we discussed in the previous days is because I feel that they all in some way or another fit in, come together. I feel that political education is just as important or more important to us as any of the above-named subjects. Conforto Page 11 �. Pension Welfare and Vacation Programs .! Pension, welfare and vaca­ tion benefits today form a basic part of a seafaring man's living. Along with his wages, these three areas of union-negotiated benefits enable him and his fam­ ily to enjoy a decent standard of living free from unnecessary worry. Great strides have been made in each of these benefit areas since the union initiated them in the 1950's. This past year the union negotiated an extension of the pension plan which provides for retirement on full pension of $250 a month at age 55 with 20 years of seatime. Seafarers have already begun to receive this new benefit. The pension improvement was instituted after a long pe­ riod of discussion throughout the union, and a careful, cau­ tious study of the factors that influence pensions and the abil­ ity of a pension fund to guaran­ tee that there will always be money to pay all pensions for life. The new pension benefit was gained without sacrificing or re­ ducing that very unusual feature of unlimited medical expenses for the retired man, and con­ tinued coverage of his wife under the welfare plan through­ out his lifetime. Nor was there any cbunge in the provisions that make it pos­ sible for a Seafarer to retire at 65 with 15 years of seatime, or at any age for a pension of dis­ ability ^er 12 years of sea­ time. It is the factor of pension management and administration that makes the SIU Pension Plan, we believe, superior. Many of us are aware of what is common knowledge in the maritime industry; that the pension plan of another union —the National Maritime Un­ ion—is in serious diflBculty. We know of the threat this condiSEAFASBBS^ttLOG tion poses to the NMU's plan to meet the payments it has pledged and is obligated to make to its retired members, let alone those who will become eligible for pensions in the days ahead. The purpose of a pension is to give a retired member peace of mind in his days of retire­ ment, and a worl^g member the assurance that he will one day be able to retire with that same peace of mind. Seafarers can take comfort in the fact that the maximum cau-^ tion has been exercised to make the SIU Pension Plan a sound­ ly conceived, soundly financed, responsibly administered pen­ sion system affording security, without worry, to the Seafarer after he completes his working years. We are certatin that the cau­ tion which underlines our plan will continue to be applied so the fund will have the financial soundness and the ability to consider additional improve­ ments in the years ahead. Our Seafarers' Welfare Plan also has been shaped to provide the maximum possible help to SIU men and their families. Our program includes a broad range of benefits covering hos­ pitalization, optical care, death payments, siclmess and accident benefits, and heavy emphasis on preventive medicine through frequent medical examinations. Here, too, we can be assured that our SIU will continue to pioneer in new types of bene­ fits, as well as to broaden the coverage of existing benefits. Seafarers also enjoy an un­ usual vacation plan. This bene­ fit is given in the form of cash payments to be taken at the option of the Seafarer when­ ever he desires, whether or not he gets off his vessel. We have seen a steady climb from the $140 a year which was paid at its inception to the $1,400 paid today in the key ratings, the $1,200 to those in the middle ratings and the $1,000 to men working entry ratings. Our entire range of pension, welfare and vacation programs is sound. Seafarers need not be concerned about the ability of these plans to meet their needs today. We also believe that our un­ ion is conscious of the im­ portance of these fringe benefits which touch directly each of our members, and has indicated its desire to pioneer in the de8BAFARBUMMO velopment and expansion of these programs. As a result of this conference, many of the participants have suggested for consideration the following recommendations af­ fecting these plans: • Review the pension pro­ gram to ascertain the possibil­ ity of widow's pensions being extended beyond the existing six-month period following the death of a retired Seafarer. • Study the feasibility of re­ laxing the limitation on em­ ployment in the maritime in- dustry for men on SIU pen­ sions. • Examine the possibility of providing disability benefits for men disabled prior to the time when they have reached the 12year seatime requirement for a disability pension. Study ways and means of speeding up the application and disbursement procedures for welfare payments in the outports. • Review the possibility of making available welfare bene­ fits to members of families re­ tired and living outside the United States. • Study the possibility of in­ cluding the deck maintenance rating in the $1,400 vacationpay bracket. • Examine the possibility of providing SIU medical clinics on the West Coast to families of SIU members. • Investigate the use of Pub­ lic Health Service extension facilities to provide medical care for Seafarers and their families where existing care is not adequate. In addition, the conference reaffirms the SIU's traditional support for the continued oper­ ation and the expansion of United States Public Health Service hospitals. The conference regards this subject of continuing interest to all Seafarers and their families and advises all members to be fully aware of all facets of the benefits and the ways to use them. -i ii • I / .ur >1 I 1(1 • 1' II I -'Jl X i For the good and welfare and all—good food, good surroiindingB. At left, happ}^ faces in the galley line. Right, good talk at the dining room table. Page 12 Seafarers Log �Chairmen Report on Fringe Benefits George Annis Workshop Annis I represent workshop #1, and, of course, we had the pension, welfare, and vacation. We had Bill Hall for our chairman this morning, and like he said, as far as vacation went, I remem­ ber when I first started I never even got a vaca­ tion check until they put that 90-day clause in. I never could stay a year. But I believe this committee, or what­ ever we are, should think of some of the minority of our members. I'd like to bring that up. We have quite a few members who are married, have children, but who are overseas. And they are on the ships along with \is, the time they put in, I believe, the company should pay them the same amount of money as us. They have their dependents, and their dependents, I be­ lieve, should be qualified for the hospitalization and benefits the same as us that live here. Earl (Blaclcie) Harrison Workshop #S I'm Blackie Harrison from Tampa, Florida. We are here for your welfare and not your cab fare. We discussed in workshop #5 today, with able assistance of John Day and Red Morris, discussed, as all you brothers did, the Welfare, Vacation and Pension plans. And to think of how far we have come since the innovation of the Vacation Plan from $115.00 a year to $1400 a year is remarkable. After a little over twenty years, fellows, just think how far we've come. $1200 for the second man and $1000 the group three man. I think that's amazing. On our welfare plan, just consider the benefits of hospitalization for our families, the amount of money saved the average seaman that has any trouble at home with his family. You just couldn't be able to pay it, the way we've been going. I want to thank the SIU, because it helped me on many occasions with my family. HarriMMi Jose Caste!! Workshop #2 We discussed in depth our pension, welfare, and vacation plans—^the so-called fringe benefits, and I must say that we had one hell of a lively discussion in our workshop. There were cer­ tainly wide differences of opinion expressed as to what would be the best course for our union to steer to properly safeguard and protect our members interests. One thing I am convinced of is that our un­ ion made the right move when they did not allow us to be stamped into going for the 20year bust-out that the other unions went for. The wisdom of this position is surely clear now as we see what is happening in our industry. Tom Garrity Workshop #6 I am a pensioner, I want to tell you I couldn't live on this pension like I do, if we were on welfare, I'll tell you that. We have all the mod­ ern facilities at home, I'm not bragging. We sure couldn't afford that on welfare. We have some school teachers here, some vice presidents, some port agents, some headquarter agents, and I think all of these fellows deserve a vote of thanks, I'll tell you. You're doing a wonderful job. And I think when we all leave here, there's going to be some well-educated fellows as far as the union is concerned, and I include myself. For the material you've had to work with, you're doing a wonderful thing. CaBteU Garrity Fernando Munoz J. W. Allen Workshop #3 In workshop #3 today we followed the growth of vacation pay, our benefits, and pension fund. I became a member of the SIU two years after the vacation plan became a fact. I've done my share' of bitching, but never on this subject— welfare, vacation and pension. I maintain that we the membership leave it stand as it is for the period of time it will take us to see our way clear to go ahead. My attitude has taken a 180° turn since I have been here. We do not tie up a ship for a bottle of ketchup or a jar of peanut butter any­ more. I thank our officials for their foresight and a job well done. AUen Workshop #7 I have been with this union since 1943. That takes me back to Stoney Street. At first, there were no welfare benefits and a seaman did not want to take on the responsibility of a family because he had no welfare plan to help him or his loved ones. But with the inception of the SIU Welfare Plan in 1951, the seaman has seen the benefits grow to what we have today. He has total protection for his wife and children from birth to death, from the cradle to the grave, if you will. He knows that they not only are pro­ tected, but, too, even if he is on the beach, if he is hurt off the job, he will receive compensa­ tion from his union. I know that with the leadership we have to­ day, our union will continue to look out for the best interest of all of us. Within a very few years, I will be receiving a pension that will protect me for the rest of my life. Munoz Charles Mazur Mazur May 1971 Workshop #4 We had the honor of Brother A1 Kerr,- who is our Secretary and Treasurer, coming in and giving us a very informative talk on the subjects and answering questions asked by some of the delegates present. All the information given to us regarding the Welfare Program in its entirety, from its inception up to the present time, has cleared up for us many doubts or misunder­ standings which may have existed in our minds regarding this generous program from which the active Seafarers and his dependents benefit. Special emphasis was given on how much better and how much sounder our Pension Plan is than that of the NMU. The many reasons why our Pension Plan is so much better are very simple. With dedicated men like our President, Paul Hall, and our elected officials always fight­ ing for the membership's best interests, we shall always have the best of all the others. James Sanders Workshop #3 As you heard before, we discussed the vaca­ tion plan, the pension plan, and the welfare plan. And also Brother Kerr came in and gave us a talk on what is involved in getting this vacation plan and welfare plan started. As he said, they figured that the welfare plan was much more important that the vacation plan when they first got it started. And I believe it was. Most people have families, most seamen, and, this way, when you go to sea, you don't have to worry too much about your family. They're pretty well taken care of. Sometimes a telegram doesn't get to a ship too quick. They have ways of getting them out. But I know that we have a lot of trouble getting information from home, when you're a couple or 3,000 miles from sea. Sanders Page 13 �WEAFAMMMB^IOQ Education: Trade Union, Vocational and Academic In our SIU, there is increasing emphasis being placed on the subject of education—on every aspect of education that directly affects the individual Sea­ farer on and off the job, as a worker and as a citizen. In dealing with the subject of education, the con­ ference participants enjoyed an unusual experience in examining first-hand all of the areas in which the union has been promoting a more knowledgeable membership. For years our SIU has been active in the field of union education, vocational education and related activities. The SIU for example, launched the first college scholarship program in the maritime field for the children of SIU men and the SIU program has given each year five (4) four year scholarships to colleges of their choosing to 88 Seafarers and depend­ ents of Seafarers. But for the first time, we now have a major center for the entire educational system of our organization. That center, of course, is the site of our present con­ ference in Piney Point, Md., the Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship. Many of us were truly amazed, as was expressed during our discussions in general sessions, at the ex­ tent and quality of the facilities and faculty which have been made available to our people at Piney Point. The program has been structured to offer benefits to every segment within our union—^to the newer man in the industry and to the old timer as well. It is clear that the SIU is pioneering in this field of worker education. There are three broad areas that the program embraces—vocational, academic and trade union education. The conference members observed in operation all phases of the vocational training program. We talked with the professional Seafarers who staff the school. We inspected the school's vocational training facili­ ties, as well as the equipment and training aids which are used in conducting the courses for work in all shipboard departments. This vocational training program is making an important contribution to SIU men. It is providing a better quality entry man who is oriented to ship­ board life, and it is offering under ideal training con­ ditions the opportunity for Seafarers to upgrade their skills and to improve their earning capacity aboard ship. This program not only benefits those who partici­ pate, but it results in better qualified and more skilled shipmates who are able to carry their share of the team load on the job. One of the dramatic accomplishments of the Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship is the academic program. Coordinated with the vocational training and trade union education programs, the academic program makes available comprehensive remedial reading instruction utilizing the most modem equip­ ment imder the guidance of highly qualified profes­ sional teachers. The remedial reading course enables SIU men of all ages to improve their reading skills which is of utmost importance in the proper perform­ ance of shipboard duties and to better their lives through reading. Delegate in workshops take up the study of ?heir sub* jeet for the day: Education, trade union, vocational and academic. The study took a full day. Page 14 The academic program also embraces the first opportunity within the trade union movement for members who have not completed high school the •. J chance to be prepared for examinations leading to high school equivalency diplomas. The school, in its short period of operation, has achieved a remarkable record of success, with the overwhelming number of participants acquiring their high school equivalency certificates. The heart-warming feature is that many of these young men, for one hardship reason or another, had been unable to complete their high school education. In the familiar area of trade union education, the Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship is enabling Seafarers to study the history of the trade union movement as well as that of their own SIU. The school utilizes the same instructional equipment and aids that are used in the academic sector of the pro­ gram. This program will have an important impact on our entire union education program. Those coming from the school will be better qualified to serve on their shipboard committees and to act as the com­ munication's link between the union and the ships' crews. The conference is pleased that it had the oppor­ tunity to observe the facilities at Piney Point, the site of the SIU Crews and Conferences and Pension­ ers Conferences conducted late last year. These con­ ferences, together with the current two-week educa­ tion coi^erence, are having a useful and informative affect upon the members of our union. •:M We are proud that our union is blazing a trail in this new area of coordinated union educational opportimities for the seafaring man, and we look forward to the continued development and expansion of the facilities and the opportunities they afford. •if We recommend consideration of the following: V That the high school equivalency program at the Harry Limdeberg School be made generally avail­ able to all Seafarers at the school, at sea and in other areas ashore. V That the Harry Lundeberg School continue its work with the University of Nebraska to implement a correspondence coiurse designed for Seafarers, to be made available to them at sea and ashore. V That the SIU scholarship program be reviewed with the possibility of expansion to make available to more members and their dependents the benefits of higher education. V That a review be made of the recertification programs to meet the needs and preserve the rights of members who will be manning the more sophisticated ships that will come into service under the Merchant Marine Act of 1970. V That a study be made toward developing a comprehensive steward department training program to upgrade members from bottom to top in that department. V That every effort be made to encourage full participation in all shipboard meetings by all crew members to further their trade union education, and especially their knowledge of their own SIU. Education is the keystone to the strength of any organization. The SIU, through its comprehensive range of educational opportunities, has established a firm foundation to develop this strength. We are con­ vinced that the members of our union wish to con­ tinue to build, upon that foundation in order to gain the ultimate strength through knowledge. Seafarers Log �Workshop Chairmen Report on Education Browning Ballard Browning Elmer Barnhill Workshop #1 Workshop #S In Classroom #1 we had a discussion on education within our union and the Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship. I can take the whole afternoon session talking about the dif­ ferent educational programs that the union of­ fers our membership and their children who wish to be seamen in the near future. Still, the same opportunity exists for non-member's kids, and still I could not cover all of this educa­ tional program in the SIU at Piney Point. In 1944 I came out of the hUls of Kentucky and I considered that my lucky year. I went to Cincinnati, Ohio, to join the service and don't laugh, but somehow I ended up in the wrong line . . . and ended up in the maritime service. But I consider myself lucky again by being placed on an SIU ship. This morning we had education just like everybody did, and we talked about the boys going to school here in Piney Point. And they gave a very good explanation of what's going on here and everything and a lot of guys, a couple of guys, didn't agree with the kids they had from school before. Now, in my opinion, I've been aboard ship and I've had guys go help these kids and to try to teach them. And they say, to hell with them. Let them learn the way I had to learn. Well, somebody damn sure had to teach them, didn't they? Then we had Mrs. Brown come around and talk about the education classes held here on this ship, which I think is a wonderful thing. And then we discussed that if anybody in our union that wanted to come throu^ this school they coxild come, which is also very nice. Bamhill Tom Foster Workshop #2 Our topic today was education instructed by Paul Drozak and Benny Wilson. We had a visit in class today from Mrs. Currey, one of the teachers from GED, who spoke on the academic phase of the program, going through here at Piney Point. One point that impressed me was that state-wide, here in Maryland, people taking the same high school evaluation test as our boys do, 30 percent pass as opposed to 81 percent of trainees enrolling in GED. The most remarkable part is most of these boys were high school dropouts getting a second chance. Then, we had a speaker who explained the vocational training given covering aU three de­ partments on ships, as well as the way these boys are trained to respect and obey orders of their supervisors. Of all this, I think back to when most of us started. Frank Pasaluk Workshop #6 The discussion brought to the surface the critical need for knowledge and education, if for no other reason, than we have an imderstanding of the problems that confront us in a constantly changing industry, and, yes, an even faster changing world. Generally, our knowledge is limited to only that informa.tion that will an­ swer that problem at that moment and many beefs are raised and discussed with patrolmen and company officials where a comprehensive set of facts are not presented. This condition could be remedied in every instance if some­ body would take the time to acquire the knowl­ edge from the contract. Foster Pasaluk Joe Galliano Workshop Galliano You all recognize this as a menu cover from the restaurant, but the main ingredient, the main course in here, is food for thought. Al­ though we had an interesting and informative discussion on education and the educational programs of our organization, my report per­ tains to education specifically. When I asked myself what is education, I realized that I didn't know what it meant, so I decided to do a little research. According to the dictionary, education is (1) the process of training and developing the knowledge, skill, mind, character, etc., especial­ ly by formal schooling, teaching, training; (2) knowledge, ability, etc., thus developed; (3) formal schooling; (4) systematic study of the problems, methods, and theories of teaching and learning. It means, that what I have just mentioned is only a small part of education. Francis Gomez Workshop #4 Gomez May 1971 The subject discussed was education. We discussed how these educational programs for the union workers were limited to the teaching of a particular skill or trade in connection with the American Industrial Revolution. We also learned that the SIU Educational Program is a departure from the established pattern of work­ ers education to three general programs: Voca­ tional, Academic, and Trade Union Education. We learned too that the SIU has long been recognized in academic education through its scholarship program, where in a total of eightyeight Seafarers and dependents of Seafarers re­ ceived SIU scholarships during 17 years. We learned that the comprehensive remedial reading program and the GED High School Equivalency Instruction is the first of its kind in the history of the American labor movement. John Ferro Workshop #7 We covered the word "Education," which, in itself, we are getting here today, which means, labor, pension, SPAD, and what have you. I know you feel the way I do, that now you can go back to your home port and inform your brothers the meaning of this meeting and what it has done for us, and the meaning of it in the future. Willard McMillion Ferro Workshop ^8 Education, which I didn't have much of when I started- to sea in 1927. When I got off the ship, I'd take a little pad and pencil with me and I'd write down the name of the ship so I'd know the name of the ship I was on. And I think it's a very important part, in just upgrad­ ing and understanding. Another subject concerns reading material aboard ships. Everybody should understand to read. One of the most important things is com­ munication between the SIU men on ship and the union hall. I feel that communication doesn't consist only through the material we get through the mail and stuff, but it's sitting down and discussing and communicating one to another, which is very important. There's another thing: I read the Log a lot, and I've learned a lot through reading the Log. And I think all of us should try to read the Log a little more. McMiBion Page 15 j �•BAPARBUMMO SlU Constitution: A Document Affecting the Life of Every Seafarer The SIU Constitution is a document which personally affects every SIU member every day of his life. It is the law by which we live. It spells out the ri^ts, responsibilities and obligations of the member and of the union itself. It guarantees the rights of the individual, but to exercise those rights we must know our constitution. We must know it, and under­ stand it, and use it. As has been stressed by participants in this conference, the preamble of the constitution stands as our Bill of Rights. It states in clean, concise language that these rights "shall be preserved." The preamble also reminds SIU members that they have the re­ sponsibilities that go along with those rights and privileges. In our study and discussion of the SIU Constitution, we were aware that it is a docmnent of, by and for the seaman. Just as all such documents, it is less than perfect. But to constantly im­ prove it so that it will meet the needs of the present, our constitu­ tion contains a process for amendment. The SIU Constitution is unique in that any individual member, at any regular union meeting, may begin the process of constitu­ tional change. In fact, every SIU meeting is, in itself, a constitu­ tional meeting. Over the years, most of the changes in our constitution have come about to conform with the nation's changing laws, and new or different interpretations of those laws. Other changes have been adopted to tighten the protections and guarantees of the rights of SIU members and to perfect and make more effective our union procedures. Every facet of the individual's involvement and of the union's basic operations and procedures are governed by the provisions of the constitution. It specifies the conditions of membership; spells out the qualifi­ cations, procedures for election, and the duties of the officers of the imion; it designates the various committees—such as trials, appeals and finance—and their functions, and it contains in minute detail the balloting procedures that must be strictly adhered to, to guarantee that every Seafarer has the right to full participa­ tion. Our constitution tells us of the proper procedures to be followed in the conduct of union meetings, as weU as the manner in which amendments can be effected. These are but a few of the areas by which the SIU Constitution provides the rules by which all of us must conduct ourselves in order to protect each other's individual ri^ts, and those of the union as the collective instrument of all. In our review of the SIU Constitution, we observed that this basic document has been fashioned to meet the very special kinds of problems that Seafarers have because of the unusual nature of their trade. Detailed as it is, no document is more important to a Seafarer than his union constitution. We feel that a thorough knowledge of this document, how it provides the union with its operating procedures and the method in which it guarantees the individual's rights, will give an insight into the unique character of the Sea­ farers International Union and its members. Oiu- first and foremost recommendation, therefore, is to urge all members, as the SIU is constantly doing, to familiarize themselves with this entire document. In this regard, we call attention to the opportunity made avail­ able to all Seafarers to have access to their constitution through our union's policy of publishing the SIU Constitution in full every six months in the Seafarers Log. We feel, too, that consideration should be given to a study of the advisability of an amendment to make San Francisco one of the union's Constitutional Ports because of the union's continuing growth and increased activities on the West Coast. We are proud of our constitution, for it is a living document re­ sponsive to the changing needs of Seafarers and their union. We want to keep it that way. <. i M • The SIU Constitution was the subject of a long and involved general session. Here is a view from the back of the auditorium. S^farers Log �Workshop Chairmen Report on Constitution Pete Waters Eric Johnston Workshop #1 , In Workshop #1 this morning we discussed the constitution. I don't have this written down, but when we see mOvies as we have seen this week, some of us feel like we have done damn, damn, little to enjoy the comforts and condi­ tions that we have today. The Preamble says it is among our objects to use our influence indi­ vidually and collectively for the purpose of main­ taining and developing skill in seamanship and effecting change in the maritime law of the USA, so as to render it more equitable and to make it an aid, instead of a hindrance to the development of a merchant marine. Since I have been in the SIU, I have done my best to do just that aboard ship and ashore, and that is why I'm here to learn all I can to make the SIU a better and stronger union. Workshop #S At a time in history when people were ruled, and most of the time badly, by kings who had no thoughts for the welfare of the people, there came on the scene, not so long after William the Conqueror, John of England. This man must have been a particularly bad tyrant, because it was in his reign that the people, represented by the Baron, forced him to accept the first constitu­ tion ever formulated, called the Magna Carta or the Great Charter. Although basic in form, as it must have been at that time, it must have also been strong and to the point, because it is in this document that all constitutions, whether it be a group of people forming a government, a company, a club, or even between man and wife, that the basic right emulates. Johnston Waters Gary Jarvis Jarvis Workshop #2 The constitution is the most important docu­ ment affecting the SIU member. It has been declared by many public officials as "a model for self-government." The constitution is the document that sets forth the rules and regula­ tions by which our union shall be governed. It describes the duties of all elected officials, name­ ly, the president, executive vice president, vice president in charge of contracts and contract en­ forcement, secretary of treasure, vice president in charge of Atlantic Coast, vice president in charge of Lakes and Inland Waters, head­ quarters representatives, port agents, patrol­ men, executive board, delegates, and com­ mittees. The constitution also describes: wages and terms of office of officers and other elective job holders. It sets forth qualifications for officers, representatives, agents, and patrolmen. \ Ernest Hoitt Workshop #6 This morning we studied the Bible, yes I said the Bible, of our union, the constitution. A1 Kerr, secretary-treasurer gave us a talk on this subject. As we studied the preamble, I realized where the SIU got all its strength over the years. It was very enlightening to find out that we have changed the constitution only a few times since the founding of our union in 1938. This in itself, is of great importance. It is very important that we continue to fight and defend our constitution. It is the responsibil­ ity of all members to protect the constitution, and support a journal, the Seafarers Log. We should also support our leadership in changing the maritime law in the Halls of Congress. Hoitt F. Sellman Workshop #3 As all the other workshops did, we discussed the constitution, not only what it means to the officials, but what it means to us. You can call it a lot of things, but the preamble should very well'be called the "Bill of Rights" for seamen. It's our protection. We got into the two main changes in it. Number one being the balloting procedure, the length at which the union has gone to protect our right of secret ballot. If you don't like him, don't vote for him, but he won't know it. You can tell him you did. It's going to be expensive, but it'll work. To keep the govermnent from wiping us out. Willie Barron Workshop #7 Our discussion was on constitution. Mr. A1 Kerr explained in detail the change in the Con­ stitution on membership books. The preamble was read in its entirety. The preamble sets forth the purpose of our constitution, statements of principles and declarations of rights and spells out what we stand for. It was fully brought up to date as changes in election procedures, giving more members an opportunity to have a voice in their union. And I would like to say while I have the microphone, what this conference has meant to me. It's the greatest thing that has ever hap­ pened to me since I've been in the union. And, it has not only brought me closer to my fellow members, but it has brought me closer to my imion officials. Barron Sellman Elmer Lamb Workshop #8 Herwood B. Walters Workshop #4 Waken Today we discussed constitution, and this is something I think all of us should know. What is the constitution arid what are its uses? A constitution sets forth the rules and regulations on how an organization and its members are to be governed. In other words, constitution is law, the law we agree to live by and with, and we found constitution applies not only to members but to officers as well. We also learned that constitution is to us as a contract is to ,a shipowner and we should abide by our constitution as we would expect com­ panies to abide by our contract. . I'm very glad to be here, I've learned a lot of things, and I've been several years in the union, and I've learned a lot of things, our constitution was so good that there didn't even have to be many amendments made in it, and that shows that we have able leadership to draw up that constitution. We even get commendations from various congressmen, saying that we have one of the best constitutions, and some of them are enemies of labor. They say we got a damn good constitu­ tion and other labor leaders should follow our example. We brought up several things, for example, that a man might be unjustly accused, and if somebody wants to get a fine levied against the man, that we have some flexibility there, and they explained it to us. Liamb Page 17 Way 1971 ipp �8BAFABBRS)K1M Harry Lundeberg School: A Look to the Future All Seafarers Point, it would be that they weren't started years and years ago. Because we are interested in these facilities and because we would like to see them improved as quickly as possible, we make the following suggestions: • That upgrading facilities to prepare Seafarers for the require­ ments of new shipboard technology be instituted at HLSS. • That more SIU members be encouraged and enabled to par­ ticipate in HLSS programs, particularly the academic and high school equivalency programs, either at the Piney Point facility or through Ae correspondence courses now being developed. • That recreational facilities be expanded, where possible, to include tennis and golf. • That camping facilities be made available in conjunction with the Seafarers Village. As members of the SIU, we know that we face many prob­ lems. We try to meet each one as it comes up even as we try to find the road to a better tomorrow. Many of us here at this conference, and many of our shipmates, It is a place where we can come to improve our minds and our have criticized this experiment at Piney Point. Most of us will not skills in our craft. criticize it again. Most of us will carry this story back to our It is also a place for relaxation—a family vacation land open shipmates—that the road to a better tomorrow could be the road all year rotmd with excellent vacation facilities at a price we can . to Piney Point. afford. Above all, let there be no stagnation in the SIU. HLSS is a training ground for union leaders of tomorrow. For all SIU mem­ It is a place where we—as Seafarers and as a union—are mak­ bers, let this be a place where questions are asked and answered, ing an effort to meet the challenges of the future. where tired minds can be refreshed and invigorated, where tired The Piney Point facility is designed to meet these challenges bodies can relax. Let it be the place for our future. through education, both basic and advanced, through our own togetherness here as a family unit, and through our faith in our­ selves and to ourselves. The following recommendation was submitted by Henry Rob­ We've learned that this Seafarers Village will be a modem erts, chairman of workshop #5, at the afternoon session on community, complete with shopping center and transportation, March 12, and concurred in by the assembled delegates: where Se^arers, young and old, married or single, will be wel­ It is recommended that an evaluation form, similar to the letter comed to make their homes. that HLSS graduates are required to send back to the school after We've learned that this will be a place where Seafarers and their first trip, be supplied to each department head, namely bo­ their families will be in the majority, where we will do for our­ sun, chief electrician, or chief steward, and that these forms be selves what other communities have failed to do—^understand us filled out by the department heads and sent.back to the last port and understand our problems. to let headquarters know what type of worker the individual If we have something to criticize about the facilities at Piney HLSS graduate has been found to be. The Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship at Piney Point, Md., along with all of the facilities available here, is a look to the future—the future of all Seafarers. There is no question that the school itself gives youngsters a chance that might otherwise be lost—a chance to face manhood with skill and knowledge. Those of us who have had HLSS grad­ uates as our shipmates know that they are well prepared. They need only the helping hand that we, as professionals, can give them. We have foimd that they make good seamen, good shipmates, good union men, and good citizens. In our discussions at the conference, we've observed that HLSS is more than just a school for apprentices. It is a step toward a better life for Seafarers who want to upgrade their skills and to learn new ones. The facilities are here, available to all SIU mem­ bers. And there is more. It is a place to improve our reading skills and academic knowledge. It is a place where we can study for the high school diploma some of us missed out on long years ago. ADDENDA Delegates look time from their busy schedules to examine plans for a Seafarers Village to be built on property adjacent to the Harry Lundeberg School of Sea­ manship. It will be a village in which Seafarers are in the majority, Page 18 Seafarers Log . VI a I'i �Workshop Chairmen Report on HLSS Canales Carlos Canales Thurston Lewis Workshop #1 Workshop ^5 The Harry Lundeberg^School of Seamanship is a chance for a kid to prepare himself for the beginning of his life. The decision of what a kid would like to make of himself, is left up to the individual. The more effort he puts into his work, the further he will advance. As we all know, the better you like what you are doing, the better you are at it. The students of the Harry Lundeberg School will join a ship with a knowledge of many fields, that we did not acquire until our third year at sea. This put a hardship on the men that were already sailing. Today's seamen, more than ever, will be responsible for more sophisticated ships and the demands for increasing skills and professionalism. These opportunities are also available to the men of our SIU ships. The key to this school's success is the fact that the school is geared to the student and his ability to learn. In workshop #5 this morning, we read and discussed information about the Piney Point Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship. How­ ever we spent most of the morning session tak­ ing the reading test. I would like to point out that Seafarers have long been aware of this need for self-help education both as job upgrading for more porkchops and scholastically for a fuller life and a more meaningful life in our society. Back in 1949 and 1950 we had seamanship classes as well as union education classes aboard the Del Norte of Delta Lines. And we have had these classes on other ships. But we had never before seen a set-up like this at Piney Point nor did we even dream it possible. We must be ever alert to the possibilities here and use them. Lewis Michael O'Toole Pete DiCapua Workshop #6 Workshop #2 Today in workshop # 6 we discussed the Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship as a whole and all those different things they have going on down here. First, of course, they have the train­ ing program for entry ratings which is a wiper, steward department, and deck department. And the young men are taught how to be prepared when they go aboard ship and what's expected of them. Second is of course the educational conference we have here informing the mem­ bership of what the union is doing and what is going on in government pertaining to the imion. Thirdly, there is a summer program where sea­ men can come down for vacation and all the different facilities are down here for them; sail­ ing, horseback riding, softball, swimming, fish­ ing, basketball, bowling, billiards, and table tennis, among other things. Last week in workshop #2 they were taking the age of all the members in our group and somehow, well, they got misplaced, and Steve Troy had to take them over again this morning. WhUe he did I was jotting them down and I got the average of all the, well, our particular workshop and it came out to 47.9. Well, that's more or less the average age group of this whole delegation, but we're a middle-aged group. And like in all society, the older generation fears or is suspicious of the newer ones coming in. But you've got to have this infusion of new blood. You've got to have this new wind blowing through. You've got to have this new thing of ideas; and that's why I have no fear of this school or no fear of these young men who are coming through this school. OToole DiCapua Jim Thomas Workshop #7 Walter Grosvenor Workshop #3 I've had the pleasure to be here at Piney Point since 1967, in a different capacity each succeeding year, and have enjoyed each and every visit. On the humorous side, I recall being driven down here last summer from New York in the SIU limousine, and around midnight the driver says, "Here we are." I was dozing at the time and looking out the window, I saw this beautiful lake with graceful swans swimming about, some perched on a high-mounted lighted waterfall, a beautiful picture setting. I shook my head and said, "Driver you made the wrong turn-off, you're in the wrong place; there was no lake here last year. The driver turned around and replied, "Well, there's one here now!" Grosvenor We had a very interesting and informative discussion on the Harry Limdeberg School of Seamanship. You know for me this school is really a dream come true. This is my first trip here to Piney Point and although I had heard many stories about the place, both good and bad, you really have to see it for yourself first hand to actually appreciate what has been ac­ complished here. And I can honestly say that our union and its members are definitely going to benefit as a result of this place. In fact, we already have begun to get returns on our investment here. I have sailed with quite a few graduates of this school and, speaking as a professional seaman, I would definitely have to state that they were assets to the ship. I would like to commend the instructors here for the excellent job they are doing with these young men. ITiey are turning out to be good seamen and good shipmates in addition to being good union men. Thomas Lucien (Fred) Drew Workshop #8 Lee Gillain Workshop #4 iiSSJKii. Gillain May 1971 In our shop this morning we discussed the Harry Lxmdeberg School of Seamanship and the opportunities offered to young men who desire to become seamen. We discussed the vacation facilities of the school available to all SIU mem­ bers and their families, also to our men on pension. We in workshop #4 feel that this gives a man on pension with a limited amoimt of money an oustanding place for vacation. I would like to say that every phase of this school is the big chance for SIU seamen and future SIU seamen. I'm very happy to learn that a seaman's read­ ing level is very much above the people of other walks of life; and that makes me feel mighty good. The School of Seamanship is great, I know from self-experience in sailing on the ca­ pacity of steward that the young people that are coming aboard ships now are 100 percent bet­ ter in efficiency and ability than they were in five years previous to now. An observation I see here many times over, more than I ever imagined it to be. Young Americans being made good citizens, which is the most important fac­ tor of our country. And also, an excellent start as a seaman which is very important in the op­ eration of a ship. We all know that. Drew Page 19 ..a, �SlAPABE»S*LOO A 81ArABlBS*100 Special Conclusion As we conclude the two weeks of our SIU Educational Confer­ ence at the Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship at Piney Point, Md., we, the elected delegates, feel that we have had a very valuable and worthwhile experience. This conference gave each of us an opportunity to participate fully in thorough, unlimited discussions and question and answer periods on each of the key subjects in which we share a deep interest and common concern with our brother SIU members. Out of the daily workshop and discussion period, the delegates made what we considered to be interesting observations, comments and recommendations in each of the areas under consideration. Every one of the participants became involved. And the interest we shared at the outset heightened throughout the conference. We feel that this Educational Conference has been a marked success, and the fact that it was held at the Harry Lundeberg School at Piney Point helped to make it so. For we were able to conduct our conference, to examine and review the policies and programs of our union in what can truly be called a center of activities that has an important bearing on the welfare and wellbeing of SIU men and their families. We were able to observe and to draw upon the facilities and resources of this SIU center to make our conference informative and productive. The overwhelming, perhaps imanimous feeling of the delegates is that the educational conference is a union effort that will be of considerable effort to all Seafarers. And so as we conclude our conference, we feel a recommenda­ tion is in order—a recommendation that the union hold another such educational conference to give other SIU members the op­ portunity to take part in, and develop points of view on, those matters which have so great an effect on their lives. We recommend that the conference be called as soon as neces­ sary arrangements will allow. Further, we recommend that the delegates be drawn from that part of the membership which has not attended this educational conference or the crews' conferences held here late last year. We are of the unqualified opinion that conferences of this sort can be most beneficial to the membership and to the union. On the final day of the conference, delegates bowed their heads In a mmnenPs silent and traditional tribute to our deceased brother Seahvers, and all sailors. Page 20 >- Seafarers Log �Workshop Chairmen Sum It Up Berneil Butts )Vork%hop Butu Today the discussions and conversations that were brought up at this meeting, were voted on, and acted on. We also held a discussion on ship­ board behavior and our union meetings aboard the ships. A lot came out in this discussion that we had, and it seemed that we could do a lot ourselves aboard these ships as the committees and the delegates improve things. And we come to the conclusion that if we, more or less, police our own people, and dig out the rotten apples, that we could make conditions a lot better aboard ships, and it will assist patrolmen and and their duties. Brother Paul hasn't mentioned it, but we have made a head start right aboard the Zimmerman here, 'cause this is the largest damn SIU crew I've ever been aboard ship with! Henry Roberts Workshop #5 Today we siunmed up with a discussion on all that has gone on here. We also went into the conduct of a ship's meeting which now are held each Sunday wMe at sea, which is just as important to us as shoreside meetings are. We went into shipboard be­ havior. As we all know, we should strive to be on our best behavior at all times so that it will not throw no reflection on us or the union, espe­ cially so to set an example for the young men who are coming to sea now, because he is watch­ ing you to observe just how a seaman should act. You should offer him and any other brother seaman help at all times, because that way you will have more harmony on the ship. And with harmony and helping each other, you will have a much stronger SIU. IT,' Roberts Ray Knoles Workshop #2 Knoles This morning, we went through the history, Mr. Chairman, Brother Delegates: We went through the history of the union and law. Actu­ ally all the subjects we have covered. Then, we had a discussion on phony lawyers who chase ships. We had a discussion on attending and how to conduct a meeting. But I think all the workshops went through this. I'd like to discuss something else. Brother Hall spoke yesterday about the West Coast. I come from the West Coast, and I know what it's like out on that West Coast. Now, in 1951 when they gave me my book, they give us a little pin, and I put that pin on my coat. I was proud of it for a period of maybe four or five years. Then, I took that pin off and I threw it in a drawer. Brothers, listening to people that I know around here and what they have explained to me, I'm damn sure going to put that pin on when I get back to the West Coast. Vincent Fitzgerald Workshop #6 The delegates from workshop #6 have re­ viewed the reports of this conference and are wholeheartedly in accord with the intent of these reports. We feel the reports properly and correctly reflect the action which has been taken and are pleased to recommend adoption of all these key topics, accept and concur on all. Also to give authority to the officers, to pub­ lish these reports in the Log and to submit them to the membership at regular meetings. I wish to point out we had 100 percent at­ tendance in our class. And the delegates voted to accept the report and recommendations unanimously, and urged adoption of the report and recommendations by this entire body. Fitzgerald D. H. Abraham Workshop #7 Louis Goodwin Workshop #3 We recognize the work accomplished since the beginning of the Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship, but we also recognize the critical need not only to continue this work, but greatly expand it to meet the needs of the industry.* Mr. Chairman, workshop #3 unanimously concurs with the reports and recommendations as sub­ mitted to our workshop this day. Today my fellow delegates and I of work­ shop #7, under the fine supervision of Cal Tanner and Louis Neira, received the reports of the educational conference that have been submitted and are whole-heartedly in accord with the intent of these reports. We feel the reports properly and correctly reflect the action which has been taken and are pleased to recommend adoption of these reports and also to give authority to the officers to pub­ lish their reports and to submit them to the membership at regular meetings. Before I close, brothers, I want to thank you all for giving me the opportunity to have attend­ ed this school and also for the honor of being a delegate at this conference. I also want to give special thanks to Mr. Ken Conklin and Doug Corbitt, for all their time and help they gave me while I was attending this school. Abraham Andy Anderson Workshop #3 Tony Ferraro Workshop #4 We, in workshop #4, discussed the history of the SIU, legal, contracts, political, educational, pension, welfare, and education, constitution, and the HLSS. It was all voted upon and sec­ onded that we accept and concur with the re­ port. There is just one thing that I would personally like to say and I would like to thank the NMU for making me be here. Back in 1943, they re­ fused to take me into the union because I was just an ordinary seaman. Little did I know they were going to do me a favor, and this is it. We accept and concur with the recommenda­ tions and everything that was going on down here. Today our members acted on each of the position papers on each day from March 2 through March 11 and unanimously voted to accept each daily position as submitted and read. We also voted unanimously whole-heart­ edly to accept the conclusion for all the reports. And further, workshop #1 recommended to this body to unanimously accept all position reports as submitted. We in workshop #8 wrote an essay on our stay and thoughts and recommendations on the HLSS in Piney Point. We also had a discussion on shipboard behavior and union meetings, which we went into very thoroughly. In closing, I would like to say that the members of this union, the officials, and the teachers should be very proud with what we have achieved with these trainees of the Lundeberg school here at Piney Point. Anderson Page 21 �SBAFABBUMNLOe Seafarers Speak Out A Here are comments from some of the delegates to the first Seafarers Educational Conference. They are virtually untouched by the editors. They express praise. They express criticism. They contain ideas for all Seafarers to think about. Most of all, these essays show how Seafarers speak—and think— for themselves. D. Abraham Houston Having come through HLSS last year I had a rough idea of the workings of their school and the union. After going through this conference I was really surprised and impressed about how much I learned while here. If we could bring all members to one of these con­ ferences we could have a well informed and more satisfied membership as was brought up at the assembly. I am going to carry on from here and try to inform my shipmates on what the union is all about and what it is trying to do and is doing for them. I believe that if we didn't carry on from here a lot of members would still be in the dark and this confer­ ence would have been a waste. J. Allen Seattle The Seafarers Educational Conference of March 1st to the 14th, 1971, at Piney Point, Md., was a great step forward for the SIU to help the members to see what is going on in their union and to see into the future of the union. I myself beUeve we need the HLSS for the young seafarers coming into the union. It will help them to prepare themselves for life aboard ship and give them a better chance for the education they did not get at home. The facilities here are of the best and sports are plentiful. I myself say to the members to support it all the way. Robert L Anderson Wilmington I have learned more about one union since I've been here, then in all the time I have been in our union. This is why I think these educational confer­ ences are a great thing and should be continued. Never had I understood the full fight we are engaged in, and how we are working to combat it. Knowing all these things now I will work and promote others to work and support our goals. Because if we all support our leadership in all ways we will have a strong union and win our battles. We are extremely lucky in our leadership becatise they plan not only for today but also for many years ahead. Also I have learned many of the answers to ques­ tions I have had doubts about and now I will be able to help many of our brothers who are misinformed about our union. This conference wUl make our nation stronger as men who are informed will always work to support goals they understand. George E. Annis New Orleans In-so-far as the Harry Lundeberg School and the base here at Piney Point goes, in my personal opin­ ion it is one of the finest acts that this union has undertaken, and that the educational aspects should be increased over the years. I was rather reluctant to attend this educational conference because I had thought it would be just a waste of time. However, since my arrival here at Piney Point, I can only say that I am very happy that I was talked into coming, and that hereafter, I shall never turn down any other chance to visit or attend future conferences. These few weeks have given me a greater insight Page 22 into the working of the various aspects of our union than I've ever had, and I will, upon my retium to seabe able to answer questions ask^ me at future ship­ board meetings much clearer and with fuller knowl­ edge than I was able to do in the past. I therefore personally believe that the union should try to hold these Educational Conferences with all of the top union ofl&cers attending at least once every two years, in order to clear up various matters as has been done at this meeting. Stephen T. Arales Norfolk In my 23 years in the SIU I'm proud to be one of the educational conference delegates. I learned about the wonderful turn-out of all young seamen of tomor­ row. I learned more in these 12 days of our union history, contract and so forth than in my years at sea. Piney Point HLSS of SIU is the best school for all seamen. J. M. Ard benefited from this conference, natvu'ally some more than others. It of course is not perfect, but it is a giant step in the right direction. If I may, a few suggestions: Use Saturdays as workshop sessions also. Allow a few periods of free time for questions and answer sessions for such delegates as wotild like to participate in same, especially on contracts and pen­ sion and welfare. Have full time medical clinic hours. Elmer C. Barnhill Houston I think that Piney Point is the best school that I have ever seen. I wish that it was possible for me to have the same type of program when I was yoimger. I brought my wife and kids here last Sept. We thought that it was a wonderful place to come to on a vacation. Seamen who have not been here can not realize what a wonderful place this is or the things you can do here. I hope that they get a chance to see tUs place as I have seen it. Wilmington This conference to me has been beneficial in many ways. I think the most important aspect has been the facts about the union past, present, and future. We hear so much bull and false stories at sea. We the members must, by all means, sow the infor­ mation that we have reaped to the brothers at sea and in our various ports. I have got a feeling of security at this meeting. In essence I know that the president of the union is working for us not only today but days ahead. As for Piney Point itself, I have never seen so much courtesy and willingness to help as I have encountered here. This has got to be a milestone in maritime history. I am very proud to be part of it. D. Backovi-f-z Philadelphia Jack C. O'Steen Jacksonville This has been an outstanding conference in every phase covering all the way from the ori^nation of the SIU and the HLSS down through this conference. The officials as a whole have done an outstanding job in the workshops. I know I now have a better understanding of our union and the HLS. Some of the recommendations I would make for more comfort are: 1. Additional water cooler in each wing of the motel. 2. TV's in each room or a TV Room in each wing so TV watchers can do so and not disturb the card players as has been the case at this conference. No one has been able to match any TV. 3. A shorter conference, say a period of ten days, with a break on Saturday and Sunday. Art Nelson New York I was here at workshop 5. We went thru all the workshops and the trainees' mess hall and one of the bungalows, and I was impressed. I know if I had it to do over again, I would be here as a trainee. The most important thing about our union are the people, president, and officers and most of our delegates. The next is our constitution, pension, wel­ fare, and vacation benefits all the way down the line. I would like to know if it is possible to put our film on television about the dirty conditions that a seaman had to put up with. I liked everything about our educational conference and I gained some knowl­ edge. James W. Barnett Mobile I was reluctant to attend this SIU conference as I had a preconceived opinion that I was in for a "white­ wash, lecture-sermon" session. I do not believe that I was alone in this opinion before we arrived at the Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship at Piney Point, Md. I believe that without exception all delegates have I am extremely proud to be a member of an orga­ nization that is giving these yoimg men a chance. Over a period of years the patrolman used to ask for a donation and I never questioned it. Now I see where it is. In the New York Hall I met men who said, "What is it with this Piney Point?" I only wish those members could get down here to see what it is. This conference has given me a new light and better under­ standing of my union. Vincent Pizzitolo New Orleans Piney Point is a well-planned achievement. It proves that when a man believes in something he will die fighting for it. Unselfishness and pride has been the SIU way of doing things. What has been done at Piney Point proves what America needs today is more Piney Point. I am proud to be a member of the SIU. I only hope that we continue to move on and keep building up. But to have these things, we must support SPAD. It does take money to move forward in any field. Piney Point is on the map to stay. Let's keep it that way. Seafarers Log �'The Closest-Knif in the World W. S. Barron New Orleans Upon my arrival at Piney Point, little did I realize that this place was so beautiful and covered so large an area. TTiere is everything here to help the new SIU member to advance himself. Everyone here has been so wonderful to us from the union officials on down to the waiters in the Anchor Room. I will never forget it. This has been the greatest thing that has happened to me since I have bwn in the SIU. It not only has brought me closer to my brother members, but has brought me closer to my union officials. In my 12 years being in the union I have never met President Paul Hall. Had heard many good things about him and some bad, but am sure if the few who criticize him could meet him face to face, hear him talk and see how hard he is fighting for US and our union they would have nothing but praise for him. When I sat out in the Zimmerman auditorium on March 1 and listened to him talk for 10 minutes, I made up my mind about him that there is a man that knows what he is talking about and he is all union and I am glad he is fighting on my side instead of against me. He is not only looking out for us today but is planning for us in the years to come. I am glad to have him for my president in this educational conference. I learned more about our union in the first two days here than I did the whole 12 years, I have been in the union. I was glad to hear our president say that these conferences would continue. I hope in the future that every SIU member can get to come here to Piney Ppint and learn about the SIU history, the union and the law, the contracts, the education and political action of the union, pension, welfare and vacation benefits, educational and vocational pro­ grams, the constitution and all about the HLSS. It is very educational and helpful to everyone to come here and learn more about our union, about the expansion program, the farm and many other things our union is doing for its membership. It is my prediction at the end of these conferences that this wUl be the closest-knit union in the whole / world and when we all learn to pull together we wUl be hard to break. Again I want to thank my patrol­ man for asking me to come here. 8EAPABBBS*LOG labor union history, we learned the stirring story of how American labor is a part of the U.S. history. Significant events in the history of the advancement of labor were related to the strike for a 10-hour day by the carpenters of Pennsylvania in 1822. Then came the formation of the Mechanics Union of Trade Associations of Philadelphia. It created unity among the unions of Philadelphia. Never again did the striking union stand alone in the city of Philadel­ phia. We know today that unity not only works in the city among unions but is needed internationally for advancement toward a better life. Phillip W. Pron New York I am happy to be a member of SIU and a delegate to the educational conference. I have learned a lot about the history of labor and our leaders. What a fine job they have done to keep the SIU on top of the world. I find Piney Point and the facilities for a new young member the best anyone could want. I enjoyed the two weeks here meeting my old ship­ mates and friends. I also enjoyed the meetings. This kind of conference should be done every year for everyone in our union. Eugene W. Bent Son Francisco I think the purpose of this conference is very good. I would suggest, however, that any future conferences be shortened to ten days. I doubt if anyone would object to continuing through Saturday and Sunday. We certainly can't cover in detail any of these subjects but we have been supplied in our kits the means to delve into these subjects further. I think the most important thing is that we take our kits aboard our next ship to share with the other members who weren't able to attend this conference. Oakland. I am very ^ad and proud that I was able to come to Piney Point to attend this conference. As my job in chief bosun, I have been aboard every ship. Now this will give me a chance to talk to the crews about the good work that is being done here at Piney Point. It also will give me the opportunity to explain to them about SPAD so that they will have a better knowledge of how and where we use it. I think everybody in the union shouldjiave a chance to come to Piney Point. I sure learned a lot since I have been here. Piney Point is a great place both for the young seamen that are coming up and the old timers that Were already here. • I want to take this time to thank Paul Hall and all of the others for maaking our stay at Piney Point a nice one. Thomas E. Kelly Philadelphia Being one of the first graduating classes to go through Piney Point (Jan., 1968), I can't begin to write and express my appreciation, and gratitude, for all that the SIU has done for me without writing a book. When I first arrived in Piney Point back in December of 1967, my first impression of the school was, to say the least, bad. I felt that I was little more than an underpaid coolie. I didn't possess the fore­ sight that our union officials seem to be naturally gifted with. I never thought, back in 1967, that this school could ever be what it is today. I've been most impressed by the GED program which the school is operating. The teachers in the school, from my observations, make the students more willing to learn by their relaxed attitudes, and by making their classrooms more like a home than a school room. I have also been very impressed by the vocational school ship "Sonny Simmons." I have attended classes aboard her over the last few weeks, and I must say I was impressed with the amount of work the trainees cover in the short two-week period in the engine and deck classes. I've also attended class in Bungalow 4 and in my opinion the training that these young 3rd cooks receive has to be at least equal if not better than any cooking course offered in the nation. 8BAFARERS)HOG C. Behrens Houston Irr |: ^ Charles F. Nysla I am one of the delegates that came up from Houston, Tex. I enjoyed and learned a lot since I've been at Piney Point. Before I came here I thought I know a little bit about my xmion, but I was fooled. I didn't know. Nothing. I think that it should be a must for every member of the union to come to one of the educational conferences and receive a little more edu­ cation about their union. As for Piney Point, it is a fine place for a vacation and also it is a fine place for our foture seamen. Since I've been here I have walked around and went to some of the classrooms and workshops. I think they are the best. We didn't have them when I went to school. If we did, maybe I would have stayed in school. I hope to come back to Piney Point for a few weeks in the summer, and I am looking forward to it. Son Francisco Legal aids and means are needed in our fight today. These needs must be realized by the membership, Our contract is a legal document upholding the rights and freedom of the membership. Politically we must be educated because of the complications of today's modern life. Our union welfare and vacation contract is consid­ ered the best in the industry. The school is considered one of the best that labor has. Labor needs schools for an induction into this modem complicated life we have today. Our constitution insures our freedom with all its rights. The Harry Lundeberg School is one of the finest the maritime industry has, George Meany said. It has a wonderful meaning for young men entering the SIU to train for life at work. We had an instructive period of school in labor's advancement toward a better life. In the class on May 1971 Herbert W. Bennett In conclusion, I would like to say that in my opin­ ion no other union offers better schooling to their membership for the opportunity to advance them­ selves than the Seafarers International Union. Norfolk The educational conference was just that. I learned quite a bit about the union and its workings, I also learned quite a bit about the school and the Piney Point facilities. I only hope that I will be able to present this infor­ mation to the ship's crews so it will be clear to them. My biggest criticism is the wasted weekend and the very uncomfortable seats, both in workshops and the auditorium. Don Bartlett San Francisco My name is Don Bartlett and I am from San Fran­ cisco. I am the chief bosun of Sea Land shore gang in J. P. Bush Mobile The Harry Lundeberg School is a beautiful place. It is a place for all youngsters to come, to leam, and make a better life. And to go to such a place is beautiful and makes a man want to do for himself. I learned a lot about the SIU and other things. It is a wonderful place to get everything out of the union and everything is very good. If a man missed this school, this place, he doesn't know what it is all about. It is an amazing place to come to. With all the classrooms is very nice and all of teachers are the same. That is good. Page 23 �'An Application for My Grandson Charles O. Lee I highly recommend this course as is for other members of the union. An educated union man will come forth from this conference. I would only change one part and that would be to give the men a chance after assembly to confer upon the subject of that day with union officials. Do not make this mandatory but on a basis of free choice of the delegate. SBAFARKRS^IeLOO Tampa On my second visit to Piney Point, I find a lot of new improvements in just a few short months! It is amazing to see anyone answer questions as Brother Hall does and. has during this conference. With this kind of leadership, we can't lose. Of course we all miss Brother Matthews and hope him a speedy recovery. Having bron a seaman since 1930. and a member of the SIU since 1938, I don't feel I am very good at explaining things on paper so the best way I can say what I think is by action. My own son became a full book man in 1950, my stepson became a full book man in 1958 and I am applying for an application for my grandson to^ enter this training program. Need I say more? F. J. Lebda New York I think that this educational conference has been a very good one. To the instructors and the union officials who have made this conference a good one, a vote of thanks for allowing me to participate. I also have a better conception of this installation and the training programs that they have here are very good. As for myself, if I were a yoimg man again, I mean if I were able to get an education such as these young men get, I would certainly try my best to come to Piney Point. I would also like to say that I know of a youmg man that would like to get a good education and become a good citizen, but he is only fourteen years of age. When I get back home I will definitely show the pictures of the Harry Lundeberg School of Seaman­ ship to any and all of my friends who may have a boy from the age of sixteen to twenty-one. In closing this essay, I say again, thanks for the opportunity. I would like to come again either by myself or with my family. I have no suggestions to make because any sugges­ tions I make would already be covered by this school at Piney Point. Thanks to all the instructors, teachers and workshop chairmen, and a special thanks to Paul Hall, our president of the SIU. •Vf'. James Dawson Seattle much much broader view of things and learning to understand the facts of life and the living of it. I know that this man Paul Hall has such foresight that is unbelievable. To go on his straight line and not to waiver no matter what, was and is the right way. Thank God. This I say and believe me, I say from my heart, one of the things I would like to see become a working habit on board ships, is for the delegates, on receiving the new crew members' shipping cards to write the person's Social Security number on that card. Elmer E. Lamb Son Francisco 1 like every aspect of this school. It has been very informative. Also, seeing is believ­ ing. The staff makes you feel at home, not just for one day but for your entire stay. In these pleasant surroundings information sinks in and is absorbed by the delegate. We have able leaders to impart this information. Some of the points about ^ welfare being paid at key ports will be acted upon soon and hope so, as a matter of good faith. B. Kazmierski Houston William King Son Francisco One thing I learned at this Seafarers Educational Conference is that it takes a lot more than hot air to keep our job security and all the benefits we have. It takes brains, hard work, and foresight. The Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship is one instrument of foresight and that education is of great importance. We must support our officials and give them our confidence by supporting them with SPAD and all other means to the limit of our ability. We never had it so good. I know because I started going to sea 52 years ago. I am in the engineering department. I have been on ships from the coal shovel to today's push button. I only had 2 years of school. I cannot write in words all the good things I, as a member of this union, have received. We have the best officials and the most loyal of any maritime uhion. We owe them our full support with everything we have in anything they do. Because I, for one, know they're trying to do their best. Robert Lasso San Juan I feel as I think most of the members feel, that this program was and is a most needed, awakening and understanding of what's going on and how it's going on an how it will always go on. As I grow older, I am, I think, lucky, to understand that I am getting a Page 24 Piney Point: What does that mean to me? Before coming here it was nothing but a name I heard men­ tioned by a few men. Having spent two wonderful weeks here, the two words mean more to me now. Piney Point is the start in the right direction for many men who want to go to sea. But it is much more to me as I feel I am one of the people who helped to make Piney Point a success. To be present here at this time and to be able to participate, in this educational conference, is a hi^ point in my life and we have met and talked over problems that seem to come up in every conversation aboard ship. I have learned to be a better union man as I have been explained many parts of the contract I did not understand, also the legal and political side of the union. SBAFA«Bi»»LOO When I first heard our port agent in the port of Seattle asking for about 10 men to go to Piney Point Educational Conference, I along with the rest was very skeptical. Anyway, upon driving into Piney Point, seeing the buildings and the rest of surround­ ings and what was done, our skepticism turned to outright amazement. I personally think this is just what the Seafarers needed, a chance to learn more about the labor move­ ment and its history. Also what is being done in our behalf, and most of all, to meet with most of the officials from the outlying ports. Talking to some of the officials, I really feel that they are trying to do what is right for the members. So all in all I think that the educational conference was a big success. W. Koflowitch New York I have been a member of the SIU since 1952. I have seen my imion suffer and expand. I have also visited many foreign countries, but I must say that being here at Piney Point, to me, is like finding my place in the sun. I have visited every area on this base and also the farm. I hope to be one of the first lucky members to come back to Piney Point to live with my kind of people in peace and quiet. What I have seen here and the participation by all the delegates makes me feel as a special envoy of a very bright future for my union and the maritime industry. I would consider it an honor to be elected as a delegate to any future conferences here at Piney Point. Edward J. Toner Philadelphia I have heard my shipmates talk of Piney Point. I always accepted it as a sea story. Seeing is believing, so here I am in person, at Piney Point to see for myself. Our arrival here at the Point sure was a great surprise. The recejjtion was a thrill to see. Our top boys. Bill Hall and Brother Frank Mongelli welcomed us. Checking in the motel, one of the best I ever saw. We all enjoyed the hospitality. I must say the food was the best. A real banquet and a dining room worth seeing, first class. This world is full of surprises. The activity I experi­ enced sure will stay in my memories for a long time to come. This school of Harry Lundeberg, I am sure it will be a successful accomplishment for our SIU brothers to be proud of, second to none. I am most grateful to my SIU Brothers John Fay and Joe Air for electing me to come down here. It's a trip I will not soon forget. It is a full education in itself. I am sure our young brothers here at the Harry Lundeberg school will turn out to be the best sailors to sweep the seven seas for the USA and the SIU. Piney Point to me is the happy hunting ground for it is a place I shall never forget. May our success continue. Thanks to Mr. Paul Hall and brother SIU mem­ bers. Seafarers Log �-m 'Where Would I Have Been?" I for one think we should continue these confer­ ences and that every member should have a chance to attend. D. Barry San Francisco I am one of many who were reluctant to come to Plney Point. If Frank Drozak had a full complement to come, perhaps I would never have come, but as I have great respect for Brother Drozak I could not and would not see him come here without a full comple­ ment from his port of San Francisco. That is the only reason that I came. I could go on and say as many do that I dreamed of coming here but it would be a lie and phony . . . and no one would have believed me as I am well known for stating the facts and have no use for phon­ ies. Now that I did come and have seen and heard I am indeed very pleased and will—if I live long enough come back to see the completion of this wonderful school and farm. I have had many kids from this school sail under me and have never had a problem with one of them. And as these kids now are trained better I expect to have no problems with them. I have always tried to help kids as I remember I was helped and also try to gain their respect. This is the first phase in helping them. I bow to our President and our officials for the great job that they have done here, also to all of those who have helped and worked here. May God let them have the health and strength to finish this and go on helping these kids and I hope that someday that each one of them will look back and say, "Where would I have been if it were not for Piney Point?" li.'ii Philadelphia A vote of thanks to all chairmen and all delegates here in Piney Point. I'm very happy everything ran smoothly. A job well done. I studied all about Seafarers International Union, its history, pension, welfare and vacation plan, contract, constitution, political education program, Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship and xmion meetings and shipboard behavior. Alfred Bertrand San Francisco I, Alfred Bertrand, came to this conference from the port of San Francisco and here in this conference I have learned a lot. Brothers, after I leave this nice place we call Piney Point, I will really feel like an SIU member and speaking for myself now I know my union rules and would like to learn more. It is never too late to learn. Brothers, now that our union is coming up, let's keep it up. We have better benefits, better facilities, a better constitution, all the way around—a better industry. Remember, brothers, we made this union and thank God we have very good leaders and a very good president, which is Paul Hall. SBAFAEEBS^tfLOO Boston We have come a long way since the start of this union. I think the HLSS is a good thing. No one would think this could be done in so short a time. The union beef has been a long one. First we had to get the men and ships, it wasn't easy, a fight all the way. Then it was a fight to get contracts with the companies which again was a fight in itself. But we won, and now we have the best contract of any union. Wm. Reyes New York To all SIU members, I strongly recommend that if you have the opportunity to attend these conferences you do so. I've learned more about my union in these two weeks than I knew in the last 24 years. Besides, the whole complex here in Piney Point is simply amazing. I never dreamed such a thing existed. Every phase of the Labor Movement is discussed in the various workshops and when a man leaves here he is fully informed about his union and is capable of telling his shipmates about what is going on. Besides, no better food and accommodations can possibly be found on the outside. The finest personnel is on hand to take care of all our wants. To conclude I want to say this, in the last 24 years I've known only peace of mind, security, and fre^om from job worry. All I've ever had, all I ever hope to have, I know will come through my union. Some years ago I heard or read these lines. Brothers, as we have in the past, as we are doing now, as we must continue to do in the future, we must hang together or sure as hell we will hang separately. To our president, to our oflBcers, to my brothers, God bless you all. H. B. Butts Houston Billy K. Nuckols New York Thomas Brennan The conference was called an Educational Confer­ ence and that to me is exactly what it was. After more than 20 years in this union I thought I knew some­ thing about it. Here at Piney Point I found out that what I knew was yery little. In nine classes in our workshop we studied nine different subjects as well as we could in the short time (3 hours) as possible. In ehch class I for one learned plenty. Also in our 2-hour assembly, with the questions from our members and the answers from our president and chairman, I increased my knowledge of our union. Philadelphia May 1971 Il-'g| "••••J James A. Bergeria J. S. Preshong SBAFABBBS^IfLOO 8BAFABBRSl(|LOO Two weeks ago I came to Piney Point for an educational conference with my union brothers from every port in the country. Through the discussions, and classes and questions and answer periods, I learned first hand of the problems we are going to face in the future. By discussion these problems, we learned how we are going to solve them. What we need to solve them. I for one learned that unlike other maritime unions, we have leadership that has the gift of foresightedness. The proof of this is in the choatic situation the other unions are in. I say this is a fantastic gift our leaders have . . . this gift of forsightedness and coolheadedness that has kept us out in front of all. the rest. Witness how they were able to look ahead into the future and see a place like Piney Point—where union men can come together for their first training, free from government interference; where they could come together to discuss their common problems; where they could come with their families for a vaca­ tion that is within their means; where they could live together in their own town and live close to their first love—the sea. All this took what I call forsightedness. I can come away from this conference with the feeling of satisfaction that now I more clearly under­ stand the problems facing us. I also know the why's and wherefore's of some things I didn't understand and I also have the feeling that I can pass this infor­ mation to my less knowledgeable brothers who were not able to attend this conference. A brief report on my stay at Piney Point. First off, I would like to say I am proud to have been a part of this educational conference. And I would like to give President Paul Hall a vote of thanks for making it possible. Brothers, I believe all the SIU members that at­ tended this conference will go home the best in­ formed union members anywhere in the world. The thing that impress^ the men in the confer­ ences was the Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship. And the young men that are going through the school are the SIU men of tomorrow. Benedict Varela New York Unity seems to be the key word of all our SIU Conferences, of which there have been only two; per­ sonally I feel each and every member that holds an "A" Book or "B" book should go through; and en­ hance his own understanding of the leadership and brotherhood of our now becoming, for the first time, great union. There should, in my mind, be a continuous succes­ sion of conferences until all our men have gone through this program. I am more than positive that this can only foster complete confidence in the leader­ ship we now have; especially in the insecure and lean times the brotherhood must face. As for suggestions? My leadership—I can see—is way ahead of my thoughts ... I give you my vote of confidence . . . Paul Hall! Page 25 �'If I Had Any Criticism Ray Knoles WUmingfon Well, first, the best part was meeting many old ship­ mates. As far as knowledge goes, learning what I had thought was a waste of money for something called Piney Point, is very good investment. Also learning what SPAD is, which I thought was just another way to grab our money. Now I know different. If there is, and there will be more conferences, I would limit them to a 100 or 150 men. So as to have no more than two men in a room. If I had any criticism of this conference that would be the three men in a room, and that is really a small thing. Robert M. Kirkwood Philadelphia I am deeply impressed. Thinking about union activities I knew about, how wrong I was in my thinking. The area, the equipment used, are second to none. Sailing the ships with students coming out of Piney Point instead of off the street, you can pick out the Piney Point men just by the way they co-operate. Hubert W. Kennedy Houston I was surprised to see how the school was set up and the excellent way they train the boys here to be better shipmates than the ones coming off the street. The various ships in which classes are held are very well laid out. I would like to further suggest that we should have the conferences twice a year. I would like further to see us make aerial photos of our installation here in Piney Point and placed in all of our union halls. The Steward Department set-up is excellent. The dining room and bar is excellent. This is an ideal place for members and their families to come for vacation. I would like to further donate to our Farm, once you start stocking it with livestock, registered sows from my farm in Coldsprings, Tex. the outcome is. Also, I can see that the youngsters are well cared for, under good supervision of some of our elected officers. In coming to the conclusion of believing and clear­ ing my curiosity that the money is well spent, and I am privileged to say this for the five years that I have been a member of this union, I was ignorant of a lot of things until now. The past 12 days were an educa­ tion. Thanks to the SIU for all the help that was ren­ dered to me. I remain a brother. Gary Jarvis Houston This has been a most informative conference to me. I was here last year for crew conference No. 3. I learned much then, and have learned much more, about my union and the labor movement, at this educational conference. I learned how the American seaman has progressed from slave-labor-type condition to his position now, an equal member of society. I was told of some of the bloody strikes and beefs the SIU has been involved in. Another thing I liked about this conference is that in our workshops I got the opportunity to meet and talk with almost every port agent in our union, thus getting the views of each port on a lot of different aspects of the union and its policies. I know now, even more than before, how very important SPAD is. 8BAFARERS)|NL06 W. E. Joyner Houston It has been a surprise to me, after hearing so many stories about this school, to find after I came here to see and to find that nearly all of the stories were wrong. To me this is a wonderful school and a fine place for the young men of our union to learn some of the things that they would need aboard ship. They can only learn this from a sailor or a teacher that has been to sea. The training that these men learn will be put to good use and make it much easier for old timers who used to teach these people the ways of the sea. So, to me, I think that this school was and is a wonderful thing for all the young and the old. Herwood B. Walters San Francisco With all due respect to the president and the elected body of our union, I joined the STU in 1966 in the port of New York and have been an active member since. During these five years I've upgraded myself to an Able Bodied Seaman, with the help of the SIU upgrading program. My instructor, who I will never forget, was Ernie B. Jackson, who at present is an officer which I am very proud of. In paying almost but for $250.00 of my back assessment, I received my "B" book in 1968 when I returned off a one year run in the Persian Gulf, I was very happy to get to do this because as a "C" it was very hard to get a job, so, thanks to the SIU. In 1968 on my return from the Persian Gulf, I was informed about the property that the union had ac­ quired. After listening to a lot of other brothers, it seemed like the money was thrown away, but today I can say with all respect that I am proud to see what Page 26 John J. Devine New York I am a pensioner and would like to thank the officials and brother delegates for inviting me to Piney Point to attend this Seafarers Educational Conference. I am very proud to say that I have learned about our young brothers attending the HLSS. I attended a cou­ ple of their classes and was really impressed. The new course to assist bad reading is really a big benefit to these young boys. There is so much more I could say about HLSS but to tell the truth I am lost for words. Thank you all for the most enlightening two weeks I have ever spent. H. B. Thomas Baltimore To start I'd like to say that anyone who hasn't been to Piney Point by all means do so as it is an experi­ ence you will never forget. Especially those members who came in with the union and shared its problems and hardships as our very able president brought out in our assembly each day and our very competent instructors brought out in our respective workshops. I've learned a lot here and I'm sure anyone else coming here will do the same. The training school for boys starting is wonderful. The training for their re­ spective ratings, discipline and whatever schooling he cares to take. The plans for the farm are something that have to be seen as well as read about to fully understand how far this union has come. If possible, I'm coming back for another session later in the year. That's how much I think of the program. E. Johnston Son Francisco The conference of March 1-14, 1971, was con­ vened for a general review of all phases of the union, convened under the chairmanship of President Paul Hall. Each day was given over to a different factor of our union so that we could gain a working knowledge of the organization. Obviously the two-week period allocated to the study of the various facts that make up the organiza­ tion was inadequate to go into it in any depth. We only learned enough to speed us on to know more. Since an informed membership is a strong member­ ship, then we who have been chosen to be here at this conference have an obligation, and a duty, to pass on to those who were imable to attend what we have learned and benefited from the seminar. It must, at times, be frustrating to those men, whom we elect to represent us, to battle for our rights at contract time, to take up grievances on our behalf without regard for time and effort, beefs that must be gone into to protect the rights of the members, to have some of our brothers say, "That's what he is paid for." It is a great tribute, indeed, to us seamen when such men as Andrew Furuseth, Harry Lundeberg and Paul Hall are willing, and have been willing in the past, to put their freedom and yes, their lives, on the line in order that we may have even a decent wage and also to work in dignity in a profession that once classed seamen as the lowest scum. We can never repay these men for their unselfish­ ness and dedication to, at times, a very thankless task. We have been fortunate in the high calibre and integrity of our elected officials as evidenced by the strong union we have today. Their concern not only for our future but the future of seamen to come, is graphically illustrated in the school and the.farm here. E. Joseph J. W. Thomas New York New Orleans The educational conference held in Piney Point was both educational and informative. It was also good from the point of meeting old tirners whom we had not seen in years and whom we probably would not have seen or met had it not been for the conference. The President, Paul Hall, gave us a lot of informa­ tion with regard to the progress of the union and also with regard to the: dangers the union faces from the federal government. Also, the trouble we are having with our West Coast officials, which we didn't know about. Therefore, in conclusion, taking into consideration the wonderful treatment and information we received in Piney Point, I suggest that it becomes union policy that all union members of the SIU Gulf, Atlantic and Inland Waters, should be compelled to make at least one visit to Piney Point. As far as I can see, everything is pretty well cov­ ered in all nine supplements. I'm pretty well up on our (the SIU) past history. And my main concern is our future. It's a known fact that a good left hook with your fist is no good anymore or even a club for that matter. So we are going to have to use brains. And to get the brain, it will take a lot of money, meaning SPAD, and I can't see how any government or their agencies say that any body of men (mainly union) can't donate money where it will help us for a better living in our country, the USA. It seems to me, not to be able to do so would be un-America;n, and definitely unconstitutional, and if it takes something like SPAD to make it legal, then put me in jail, because I'm going all the way with it (SPAD). Seafarers Log I �i 'This School—One of the Best' MARUUtMnkUM SBAFABIBMMO ii fy ^.5 I' ' It i : i H. Wilson New York I would like to congratulate all the staff of Piney Point on their untiring efforts to make this school one of the best in the country. I would like to thank them for making my stay very enjoyable. 'r • ii' y I tf' r r > ' •r ' V. . k• k !(>.' n •* /• ' )V - I A. Pete Waters Seaff/e I have learned more in this past 10 days of classes about my union and my rights as a member and what Piney Point means to my future in the SIU. I cannot imagine the planning and the work of officials and trainees alike it has taken to make this place of education and beauty a dream come true. I am sure after seeing this, that the seaman's hous­ ing community is only a matter of time and it too will be a fact. I cannot express my sincere gratitude, to those who made this all possible, and for my being here. After seeing the films on our union growth, and what our forefathers did to make the condition we enjoy today, I sometimes feel unworthy of these privi­ leges, but I will always, in the future, do as I have done in the past—^no matter what it requires from me—to do my best for my union and my brother shipmates and my future shipmates from Piney Point, from the time they first come aboard till I have left this great union, and family. I only wish there weren't a very few who try to destroy and embarrass our great leaders and brother Seafarers. I would like to think of myself, and I hope all the others who came to this conference, as a disci­ ple who will go out and spread the truth to our brothers who do not know. So may God bless and go with our leaders and guide and direct them in the ways to the best for our SIU. that doesn't work then: Raise the cost of living, prevent the unions frOm collective bargaining, seek­ ing political legislation in favor of increasing Ameri­ can industry. Then selling out American initiative for larger and larger profits. Then by not using American labor to the best of its ability. We are losing a precious commodity. As we have seen here, brothers, this foresight on the part of our leaders will, regardless of the runaway trade effort by big business and our government, have maximum effect. As long as we back our union in its long-range plan of unity and the Mercahnt Marine Act of 1970 and the education effort, we can win. And in addition, we must try to understand as much as we can of our union's political activities, which is at this time, COPE and SPAD. John Sherpinski many of the trainees during my stay and honestly believe these young men to be the future of not only our imion, but the U.S. maritime industry. They reveive a far better working knowledge of the history and structure of our union than most of the "oldtimers" have now. The educational conference was a real opportunity for those of us who are professional seamen to learn the complete history of our union and to better under­ stand why our leadership, in the past, took the stand they did, even in defiance of the wishes of a good part of the rank and file. Only after the workshops of the past two weeks were we able to see that every stand taken by the leadership was a "part of the whole" to give us, "the rank and file," a more sound and solid union at a time when others in the industry are going down the drain. Thank God for Paul Hall arid his sound judgment and foresight. I, for one, will be far less likely to voice opposition to his recommendations in the future. If every member present at this conference received the same message I did, our union will be far stronger in the future. Thank you for being such a gracious host and for the fine accommodations and wonderful cuisine and for showing us what the HLSS has become. Julian R. Duke Wilson Norfolk I can not say enough, in such a short essay, of my feeling about my stay here at the HLSS at Piney Point, Md. We all should back this school and what we have learned at this Seafarers Educational Conference to the hilt. Speaking for myself, I have learned a great deal these last two weeks and I think we should have more of these conferences in the future so all of our broth­ ers will get a chance to come up here. We at this conference should carry all that we have learned back to our brothers and then they wiU be just like us, "Education" on "Facts," instead of hearsay. Jacksonville Frank Conforto New Orleans Raybor Threatt F. Sellman Texas Houston This has been a most informational conference to me. I learned much about my union and the labor movement at this educational conference. I learned how seamen won their freedom, how they were slaves long after Lincoln freed the black man. I learned how the money we donated to the union was being spent, how important it is to continue donat­ ing to the union. It is a weapon to fight with. The money is used in the same way as a club would be used on the docks. I learned how our officials put themselves on the line to protect our-jobs. How Maritime Defense League was so important to all of us. Without these donations some of us would lose our freedom. I learned how our union intends to continue fighting with this donation. My heartfelt thanks for the opportunity to spend the past two weeks here at this truly unique facility. It has made me even more proud to be a member of the SIU and to have been able to partici­ pate in the building of the HLSS. I have talked with My visit to the Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship has been most rewarding to me in several respects. I have learned a lot about my union and its constant fight, both on the picket lines and the never ending political front of Washington, D.C. With the fine leadership that the SIU has had in the past and up to the present time, the SIU will continue to strive for a better way of life for all SIU members. I have enjoyed my stay here and I have nothing but praise and admiration for the way everything here is functioning, the food, service, living quarters. And all the teachers and instructors are doing a wonderful job training the yoxmgsters, who are the future Seafarers of tomorrow. During my stay here I have met many of my old shipmates and brother members whom I haven't seen in a number of years. When I leave here and go back to the union hall and aboard ship I will convey my feelings and thoughts and everything I have learned while attending the educational conference to the membership both ashore and aboard ship. SBAFABEBS^IfLOO 8BAPABBBS*100 I think Piney Point is the best thing going, because we have everything we need to educate them, train them and to get them ready for sea. As for the confer­ ence, I enjoyed it very much. It was very informative, and very educational. I think the farm is a very good project, and I hope to see it in the next two years. I think the conference went very smoothly and the teachers were very helpful. Thank you very much for allowing me to come to Piney Point, Md. r-' I' Carlos Canales iViimingfon It has occurred to me that studying the past has shown me what I believe to be the present and prob­ ably the future for labor. It is the same old story, discredit the union and the officials, raise dissension between rank and file. If May 1971 Page 27 �7 M^as Very Impressed and Surprised' John Coleman J. J. Reeves Jacksonville . Since visiting Piney Point, I've come to realize that about 85 percent of what I had heard about the SIU and Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship was wrong. By attending the SIU Educational Conference, the tours around the installation and the training school, I have come to be very proud of being part of the SIU. I have come to realize many facts about our imion which I had not known before coming to Piney Point, and of the many problems that face our union and the shipping industry today. On the training program for the new men, I was very impressed and surprised that we have such modem equipment and sldOOied instructors. Angel Rodriguez San Juan I, Angel Rodriguez, am a witness to all the activ­ ities of this grand school, which for many years we wished to have and in the name of all the dark Puerto Ricans, hope for a saint of a president such as Paul Hall. That his path may be lighted wherever he goes, in the city, and in our lives. We wish him much prosperity, and to all the dark Puerto Ricans, the same. Sam S. Brown Jacksonville Before attending this conference, I was in some doubt about our union, contract, constitution, and SPAD. After discussing one at a time, in our work­ shop, we are able to understand more of all functions of our union. Also the fight our officials have in carry­ ing out their duty's for our job security and benefits. A vote of thanks for all involved in making this conference a success. R. Wood San Francisco This past two weeks has enli^tened me very much on the things that have been accomplished by the HLSS and the educational opportunities offered the SIU members at Piney Point. I am especially impressed by the GED program and would personally encourage anyone not having a high school diploma to take advantage of this golden opportunity. I would compare Piney Point in some sense with the early pioneers who made the long hard journey westward. I think it could be summed up by a quota­ tion from Brigham Young when he looked out on Utah Valley from the Wasatch Mountains and said, "This is the place." Page 28 Mobile I would like to say that I have enjoyed my stay at Piney Point during the Seafarers Educational Confer­ ence. I have learned more about my imion and its membership and the planning for the future and what it will be like. I also would like to say that while attending the classes everyday I learned what the purpose of the conference was. Everyday there was a different subject discussed about oiu: union such as the labor union history. I know more about SPAD and its purpose. I wish to say that the farm is a wonderful site and that in the future it will be a town for pensioners and SIU mem­ bers and their families. They will have homes avail­ able for Seafarers who wish to live there. My stay here has brought me closer to the union than I was before. We all discussed the contract and what conditions the crew wquld be in without a good contract. I learned about the welfare plan and vacation benefits for members. Piney Point is a wonderful place for the Seafarers to bring his family for a nice summer vaca­ tion and the room and board is very low. The school is doing the greatest thing in maritime by training these young guys to become successful seamen and make a good career out of it. So ending my essay I would like to say that I have really enjoyed the whole fourteen-day stay. E. Robinson New York Truly a trip down memory lane. Having started to go to sea in 1927, I shipped out from the old Fink hall on Commercial and Battery in San Francisco when steam schooner A.B.'s with a book got $40 a month, and at various times from the U.S.S.B. in New York, Baltimore, New Orleans, I have seen so many U.S. companies go out of business. I have shipped with the SIU from Stone Street to Beaver Street to Fourth Ave. It was a wonderful experience seeing the SIU movie from its birth to the • ^sent. Truly a lot of memories there, such as the C.,..imie beef when Paul was up the lampost at Beaver Street, leading the army the way every good general would. Being at Piney Point for the first time, a place that you have to see to believe, hearing of plans for tomor­ row, of homes to be buUt and other improvements. In conclusion, we would have to say old Seafarers never die, they will just fade away to Piney Point. J. Winfield Baltimore I was bom on a farm. Without farming, there was nothing to do except be a caddy boy. And a caddy boy I was until almost the time I went to sea. I learned to hate the farm. I learned to hate the farmer. I have had many dreams of being rich in my life, waking up in the morning without even a cup of coffee. But, like a dream, as I saw reality here one morning, a place where I could come from sea to a home on the farm, waking up in the morning, playing a round of golf with a caddy boy or carrying my own. Mr. Mongelli and Mr. Bill Hall explained and showed us the plan to the Piney Point farm that we will have some day soon. To tell the truth is easy but to live up to it is the problem. I will never hate the farm or the farmers again. Henry W. Roberts Mobile I was reluctant to come to the conference at Piney Point, now I'm glad I did. To see the pl^ce as it is now, and listening to how it was, it is almost like seeing a miracle at work. The conference within itself was most informative. I've been a member of the SIU since March, 1944 and all I knew about the union was what I was told by someone who was not in an official capacity. Now that I have attended this conference there is nothing anybody can tell me, because I know just about all there is to know about the union, its struggles and functions. As for Piney Point itself, within the near future I intend to bring my family here for a vacation. This within itself shows my approval. The food itself is superb. My only complaint is that the heating system such as the valves ought to be repaired. To see the young trainees here is really a sight. It makes you feel good to know that in the future you will have a ready seaman coming on the ships. He will be 100 percent more prepared to do his job than the trainee of the past. Frank Pasaluk Mike O'Toole Philadelphia Keep Your Union Color's Flying High What I received from this Conference at the HLSS in Piney Point, Md., is what I have learned, and also what I have seen. I have learned the facts of our union, facts of it I didn't know before, but I do now. Here we have four our young members 12 weeks of educational program from seamanship, reading, writing, and the many skills that a seaman will use. This is their chance, give it to them. This HLSS training center is the best investment our union has ever made. I don't mean in dollars, but in-a place where fellow seafarers to come to learn and enjoy themselves. The payoff is the future for them, their families, you, your union. Also the labor movement as a whole. Keep up the good work. P.S.—^Don't rap it, see it first. See what's being done. It's your place and union. You are part of it. New York I would like to start off by saying the material we went over was wide-ranging, from the constitution, to Piney Point. But at least we got the round-about view of what is going on about us in our union, and what they are trying to do in government that is important to our membership. They told us about the laws that govern us in the maritime trade. If nothing else, at least we will leave better informed about all phases of the workings of oiu: union than if we hadn't even attempted to come here. So in conclu­ sion I would have to say that I think we wUl all leave better SIU members, now that we know what is going on. SEAFAKBRS^KLOO Bob Zumkley New York This is my third trip and things get better each time around. I don't know how to express my feelings about this school except that everything is good and getting better every time I come here. I can't say too much for the boys maintaining this school and I love all the girls. I can't mention any names as I might be accused of thinking I'm young again. You will see more of me, I hope, and I'll do any­ thing to assist in this program in my own feeble way. Thanks for everything. Seafarers Log •"7 4 : �• ,'T'S . 'A Real Feeling of Friendship' J. Sweeney SBAFARBEMMO New York • r I came to this conference reluctantly. I was quite content at home. Economic necessity, both present and future, forced me to go to work. Three factors influenced my coming; a real feeling of friendship for the man who suggested it; a sense of unfilfilled duty to my imion, and the lifelong conviction that I have to see for myself. I have been on many ships and in many of our shipping halls and our older schools, but this concen­ tration of school, playground, and projected commu­ nity is truly a noble experiment. Win, lose, or draw I have been, for many years, mostly satisfied with the progress of the union and with its ofiScials; now, I am proud! Win, lose, or draw. Fil R. L. Sullivan San Francisco M I have always thought that I was a well informed member of the union, but after this conference I have learned just how little I did know. There is no mem­ ber that has cussed about Piney Point, SPAD, and the Defense League more than I. Now I know that igno­ rance of the reasons for these three was why I felt as I did. I hope that the union will keep having these confer­ ences so that other members will have the chance to' learn, as I did, why we must have these three things. I learned a lot about my union history that I did not know; I learned a lot about contract, pension and welfare, and our constitution that I did not know. This conference is called "brain washing" by some of our brothers. If this is true then in my case it has completely succeeded and for this I am thankful. SBAFARERS^M'OO contract bargainings, about which I am sure less than 10 percent of our members understood. As has been said before, I think everyone will go away with an altogether new outlook on the operation of this union. In closing this I can say that I am glad I had the chance to attend and hope to see everyone get a chance to get here to find out more about this union which I will try to help any way I can. I am proud to say that I am a member of the SIU and thank all the officials for making these things possible. Robert Cotton Houston the trainees in the three departments first class train­ ing, but they are teaching those that heed to know how to read and write. I think these two subjects are good. They are even helping trainees to get high school certificates. I would like to see the program made available to the men on the ships. I think the farm is a good idea and a sound investment. The responses I have heard from the delegates has been good and rewarding. Gilbert Delgado Houston I have been in nearly every port of this world and have seen many strange and nice places. But Piney Point is the best of all. Every possibility is here for better education and greater leadership and better citizenship. Our sons and daughters will progress and this is the main thing. I learned about the beginning of labor unions, the sufferings, and the history of our union. The enemies, the shipowners and even our federal government, we must battle constantly. We have gained a great security by being united through better wages, pensions and welfare. Bamum & Bailey had the greatest show on earth. But we, the SIU and its great leaders, have the greatest union. God Bless Us All. The educational conference of the Seafarers Inter­ national Union, in my opinion, is invaluable. In the two weeks I have been here, I have learned things about the union that I hadn't known in the 10 years I have been a member of this union. First, I was able to meet and talk to some of the key officials whom I had only heard about or read about before. It was encouraging to learn how compe­ tent the majority of these officers are. They are well-versed, articulate and extremely co­ operative! I learned first hand why the union has been indicted by the federal government, and what is being done about it. Also the important things we should know in regards to seniority, shipping rights, vacation, contracts, and all other things an individual should know. I go on record as supporting the union and its officials in all their endeavors. E. E. Davidson San Francisco Piney Point is well located for its purpose. It has a nice waterfront for the training ships and classrooms. It has nice scenic grounds which can be greatly im­ proved over the years. The motel and the dining room facilities are ample for most any kind of conference or convention that we might need in the future. It seems the best of instructors for seamanship and SBAFARERS^KLOG Ray E. Schrum Son Francisco T. Stubbs, Jr. Norfolk I think this is an experiment that will pay off for the ;nost of us in the long run. It will start the young boys off in the right way and let those of us know on the ships what is going on ashore, at the headquarters, and what the other brothers are thinking. How we can help each other and straighten out grievances in the way that is best for all of us. This is a lot bigger and better run place than I expected to find. It is well organized and well run and I can't really criticize it at all. If they put an upgrading school in here I am really tempted to come up here and give it a try. Good luck to all in the future. Jake Cobb New Orleans I attended the educational conference not knowing what to expect. What I found is the finest training school for seamen anywhere. They are not only giving May 1971 I was hesitant to attend this conference at the be­ ginning. But I got an understanding out of the class­ rooms and from the patience and understanding our oflBcials had with explaining some of the questions that we came up with, quite a number of them stupid. I have been taught more about the laws and how the union functions in politics and how it is financed, than I would have learned in two years otherwise. I am only sorry to say that we didn't have this education program set up when I started my seagoing career. I am hoping to see it expand into something bigger in the future. There has also been brought to light a lot better understanding of the welfare program and what you are entitled to in the way of benefits, things that myself and a lot of other brothers didn't take time to understand. It has also brought more closely some SBAFARER8^|(LOO all shipboard trades have been obtained. The trainees are also receiving enough military training for the purpose of disciplining a trainee mentally and physi­ cally. We have a very good staff of academic teachers who seem well trained and experienced in their fields. The educational conference has greatly broadened membership knowledge on various subjects referring to our union. Government agents and other unions should take notice of Piney Point as a maritime school and try to better themselves in training and education. Peter F. DiCapua Seattle 1. Do it again. 2. Keep the lines of communication open. 3. I've got to report what was said over and over. I'm glad I came, my eyes were open, and I pledge to pass on everything I learned here because now I feel qualified to answer. 4. I could go on but all I can say now is, "Well done." Page 29 �7 Was Ed Brewer ^BSBEFlabbergasted' Jack Ryan Seatfle It is obvious to all who attended the educational conference that the conference was well organized and a great deal of work was put in on it. The classes were well conducted in that the free exchange and discussion of all available information and a lot of things that couldn't be written down because you had to see to believe. The school and'general area and accomplishments in the buildings and facilities is excellent and a thing one must see to really believe. The suggestion box-is up and the school is so well done and well organized that it is better than I could believe without seeing it and is progressing steadily. I have no suggestions as such because the discussion on the plans for the future of the school are so allinclusive that I can't think of anything that is not either a present part of the school, or started and being developed, or oh the list of plans for the future. I say '^ery well done," keep up the good work, and the best of good fortune for the realization of our plans for its future. Sigmund Rothschild Seattle John Sclease Now York I have an opportunity that most of the delegates of this conference don't have. I just graduated from this school and am now seeing it from a different view­ point. I think your present program is fantastic the way it is now and I hope it continues to progress at the same rate. The discipline which the trainees must imdergo is by all means for the better and in no way is harming the trainee. Unfortunately, I was just ahead of most of the present curriculum and regret this. I think it prepares the young men better than any other thing you could do for shipboard life. The educational class each morning is very helpful and I realize that without an informed membership you have no strength; and now is the time to start that education. I can think of nothing to better the school. 1. History of the SIU—^I was astounded at what I saw, read and learned at Piney Point. It in itself was an education just to be here. The movie "Tomorrow Is Also a Day" was authentic and enlightening; the challenge of things to come under the Merchant Ma­ rine Act of 1970. 2. The union and the law. How we strived to stay alive as a union and would not surrender; our fight to and for political recognition; and the donations to SPAD. We were able to get recognition, and support men who support us in Washington. Through the efforts of our leaders, we organized a youth movement in training young men to become our future Seafarers and named the school after a Seafarer. These young men are of the highest quality after graduation and I am proud to be a member of an enterprise so concerned in the welfare of the future. Our constitution is a strong and just one and our cause to fight to keep the USPHS hospitals open is beyond a doubt a must. I cannot praise these meetings enough. All mem­ bers should attend. Son Francisco George Qulncnes The purpose of this conference of delegates was to educate member of our union in regard to the aspects of the various problems of importance that most of use are ignorant of. Also in how our union was founded and fought for the conditions that exist today because of our own efforts. One item of prime impor­ tance is the indictment of our union and officials for political activities. We all should realize the impor­ tance of our donations to SPAD and the Maritime Defense League; because doing so means our very existence. How important a part pohtics plays, and through our poUtical endeavors we assure ourselves of continued existence, and survival. We should inform our union brothers and enlighten them about our union struggle and other important things that they are generally ignorant of. All Seafarers should familiarize themselves with our constitution and con­ tract. By doing this our members will gain a knowl­ edge of our constitution and what it means, and of their own obligation to om union. Wilmington Ballerd Browning Baltimore I think this is one of the best things that the SIU has done over the years. It gives many a young boy a chance to better him­ self and to be a good seaman and a good union man. Piney Point is the most impressive place that I have seen in many years where the union movement is involved. The impressive thing is not so much the physical aspects, which are beautiful, but the fact that here you are taking young men—a good many of them underprivileged from poor families—and you are making seamen out of them and teaching them how to take care for themselves as they go out in the world. I think this is a wonderful thing. My participation as a conference delegate from the port of Wilmington, Cal., is now and always will be the greatest honor ever accorded any union member. My conception of Piney Point was so far out of sight that when I did arrive here I was finally flabber­ gasted at the surroundings, service, food, and all around fellowship. Our elected officials must be protected from harass­ ment from outside sources at all times. When we back our elected officers we help protect our jobs, our contractural structure, retirement peace of mind, unionist education, scholarships, our Consti­ tutional back bone, the helping hand extended to om teenagers through HLSS, and our future incorporated village in Piney Point. Piney Point or the Seafarers Activity Center is, in my estimation, the realization of a dream come true for the SIU members and their families. William L Robinson R. J. Byrd Wilmington I have been a member of the SIU for over 20 years and this has* been the first time I've come in contact with such a concentrated effort to inform the membership of things that are now, have been in the past, and will be in the future—so vitally important to us. On many important issues I have accepted the de­ cisions made on faith and faith alone. My visit here has justified that faith to the utmost. I have said faith because, when one is ignorant of how things are accomplished and cannot explain accomplishments, then faith is all that is left. Now I know, and my faith is justified. The only suggestion I have to make is to follow as best we can the guidelines set down by this conference and, above all, let the rest of our people know about the advantages to be obtained here. James P. Stroud Seattle There are not enough words to describe just what I have seen and learned during my stay here at Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship. I did not think that they taught these young men anything at all, except how to mix the ri^t amount, drive a truck and so forth. Now I find out just how wfong I was, and I am glad to admit it. I came here as a joke, but now I fincPthat the joke is on me and I believe also on many others. I have learned more about the union during my stay here for two weeks than I have during my 22 years as a book member of the SIU. Now I ^ be able to return to my home port and tell all the other nonbelievers about my part of the convention and just what I have seen and learned. N. Savoie Nmw Orleans The short stay I've spent here at Piney Point taught me a lot. I found I didn't know as much about my union as I should have known. I recommend that members who haven't been to Piney Point on any one of these conferences, do so for their and their union's benefit. To learn what is behind the whole idea of Piney Point. To learn about their union history maritime unity. How some agents in government are trying to bust our union and the economics of our imion. Why we as members should support SPAD. They should also know how to read their contract and also thenconstitution and what it means to them. We should have full knowledge of what is behind the whole idea of Piney Point and HLSS. We should also learn more about negotiation for retirement and wages and overtime and vacation. We should also be educated in Social Security, pension, hospital, welfare benefits for older members and for our own benefits when we are ready to retire. , Page 30 -—•• New Orleans History is replete with accounts of the masses being held in subjection by allowing only the chosen or the elite the privilege of education and knowledge. The theory being, in part, that the poor in knowledge will not be able to understand the processes by which they could better their lot. Being kept in darkness, they were easily frightened by the things they didn't under­ stand. Fear and ignorance are the twin shackles used to enslave the masses. It is a great source of pride to me that our union, acting with great foresight and understanding, is chal­ lenging this theory and has undertaken the task of bringing education within the grasp of the member­ ship. It does this in the belief that an enlightened, edu­ cated and an intelligent membership will be better prepared to meet the challenges that are to come in the arenas of the future. •BAFAMERMHLOO Seafarers Log �Education About My UnionSBAFAMBBMMO conference in the SIU and believe me, I have learned more about our union in these past two weeks than I have in the past nine years as a member. Everything that I have learned here, and the read­ ing material that I received here in Piney Point, will be going with me on my very first ship so that I can pass this information to my brothers who were unfor­ tunate not to attend this educational conference of the SIU. I will be available at any time, when I am on the beach to attend any future conferences of the Seafarers International Union. Wedort DeFrancisco New York Alvin Smith R' Mobife I received an education about my union (the SIU) that I would not have had if it had not been for the union. By this I mean the union gave us eight dollars a day, room and board, free laundry and dry clean­ ing, just to mention a few things. I have a better understanding about the union and its functions. We, the delegates, asked every question that we could think of and received the answers. To give an example, SPAD aboard ship: SPAD is often talked about and misunderstood. Now I know exactly what SPAD means, and what it is used for, and I can truthfully say that we need SPAD. I also think a very good example is Piney Point. Brothers, I was very surprised and thrilled to see for myself the very fine job that is being done for the young trainees here. These young trainees leam skill and knowledge about the life and job of a seaman. Also the majority of the trainees are school dropouts, so for that reason there is a school here so these trainees can graduate and receive a high school diplo­ ma. I can go on, and on, and on, saying things of interest about what I have learned in this educational conference, but in closing I say thanks to everyone here at Piney Point for a job well done. It gave me great pleasure to come here and attend this conference listening to the many pro and con comments. Although I haven't taken it upon myself to speak, the job had been well covered. You know and I know that many improvements may come from what we are considering here. We may be facing many problems on technical change in the future. Our drive with SPAD and with the determined ability shown here, our aim will be focused. Vic Domingo Philadelphia S. Cieslak I am satisfied with our union, and am glad to be a SIU member. I do my best to help our union. This is my bread and butter. So all you brothers say what can you do for your union instead of what it can do for you. I am glad we have the Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship. I am happy to be in Piney Point, Md. I learned more in two weeks here than ever before. I am glad our union is growing up, bigger and bigger. Charles Young Edward Casey New York I am a delegate from New York and am making my third visit to Piney Point. I am sure that the delegates that are here for the first time must be impressed with the trainee program for the start of their seafaring career. They must also be impressed with the other facilities that are offered to this mem­ bership at this conference, mainly the education and vocational programs and union affairs. I must say that after each visit I hope that the union keeps up the good work in these conferences, and that more Seafarers will take advantage of this golden opportu­ nity. Robert A. Clarke Baltimore When I arrived here in Piney Point Sunday, Feb. 28th, I thought I was in a summer resort. It is impos­ sible to talk about the beauty here, because nobody would ever believe what you told them. They would have to see this place for themselves. I wish I could have been as lucky as some of the future seamen here in Piney Point, that are getting this wonderful training, especially in the educational field. I have been in the classrooms on the different ships, and was really amazed at how the different classrooms looked. The teachers employed by the SIU here at the school are doing a wonderful job for the future seaman of tomorrow. This is my first opportunity to participate in a May 1971 were far better than we could have obtained from outside facilities, so I, personally, extend my heartfelt vote of thanks to all of the personnel involved in these functions. I also believe that I am better informed on the functions of our union in all phases. I still think that it was a tremendous project involv­ ing a lot of sweat and tiresome hours to prepare the materials for this convention, and again I say a job well done. In closing, I only wish to say that I would like to attend as many of these programs as possible, because I believe that this will help me to become a much better union man in that I will be, possibly, better informed in our affairs than the average brother. New Orleans In my stay at Piney Point, I have learned a great deal that I was in the dark about. One of the most important things I have learned about is the subject of SPAD. The only thing that I myself believe is that the conference should be held down to no more than 10 days having 2 workshop sessions a day including Sat­ urdays and Sundays. There is still a lot of work to be done here at Piney Point and the way it has been building up in three years, it won't take too much longer to complete the job. Also the personnel here has been very friendly to all. Boston The record shows that through the history of the labor movement in the USA, the boss's hand was against us, that he'd use any means to break and destroy any labor organization, formed to give the worker a fair shake. For labor, the middle ages and serfdom, virtual slavery, eased at the end of the nineteenth century and has virtually disappeared today. But, remember, brothers, his hand is still against us! Today, with an alert leadership and an informed membership, we are in better shape than ever before in labor's bitter history. But the boss will try anything to bring about our downfall, as witness these indictments against our union ^d officials, the latest of the constant attacks upon us. Our entire future lies with our supporting this fight. Not only our imion's future—but cor fu­ ture, if they are not one and the same. % C. C. Lial Houston Paul L Hunt New Orleans 1 would like to thank all of the officials involved in making this great conference possible. It certainly has improved my opinion and attitude towards this union, of which I am sincerely very proud to be a member. I believe that all of the classes from day to day were vitally important to each and every one of us. I hope that all of my brothers will see the impor­ tance of donating to SPAD and legal functions which are so vital to our welfare. I myself will work very hard to bring all of the programs from here to my other brothers who did not attend this conference. Just imagine the power we could have if every single brother would just open his mind to the fact that money is the key to our future politics. I foresee Paul Hall as one of our greatest leaders in and out of the union. He is a true giant among labor leaders. I would also like to say that the service in our dining room, and for that matter all of the other services that were given to us during our stay here. I think and believe that the Piney Point recreation center and the Harry Lundeberg School is one of the most wonderful things the SIU has done for its mem­ bership. I have learned more in two weeks that I have been here, then all the years I've been in the union and I think I understand my union much more then I did before coming to this conference. The history of its legal issues, the contracts, pol­ itics, pension, welfare, vacation, education, and con­ stitution ... we studied all of this and better under­ stood it. We also learned that we must keep fighting to keep what we have, and what we hope to get in the future. We learned Jhat our union leaders have to keep fighting for all of us in Washington, D.C. on legd issues. I think that our leaders have been doing a wonder­ ful job, and it makes me proud to be part of this union and I think I will be a better union brother and member for having come to this conference. I would not have believed it if I had not come here and saw it with my own eyes. I hope that I'll be able to come back here again. Page 31 �••-4 'The Support of Every Union Brother Raymond Perry SBAPARBiUMflM SKAFABKUMmG Houston One of the many pleasantries that come to us as we travel along life's highway is the unexpected pleasure that once in awhile unexpectedly ^ves you a happy feeling. Such is Piney Point. When I was asked to make the trip, I fully looked forward to a beautiful "brainwashing" by the union official. However, the exact opposite was the case. We were cordially welcomed, assigned excellent sleeping quarters with shower and mail service, and were given meals that cannot be described. Each morning we attended classes, with a general assembly in the afternoon. At these gatherings they told it to us as it really is. No attempt to brainwash was attempted and you will have to really visit the Piney Point to see just what goes on. The farm, the various ships owned by the union, the motel, the plans for the future all add up to a bigger and letter union which deserves the support of every union brother. Everett Perry Wilmington To put my opinion of this Conference in 100 words is impossible. I feel that it would require a small book to tell the advantages and benefits garnered here. Among the thoughts I find is that my entrance to this facility was a shock as I was, in no way, prepared for what I found here. The plaiming for accommoda­ tions, service, classes, and recreation was well thought out and adequately provided for. One of the best assets here has been the ability of members from "outports" to meet union officials as well as meet agents from other "out-ports." The open free discussions exhibited, both in workshops and in afternoon semi­ nars, has brought the membership to closer under­ standing and tighter unity. Food was of excellent quality and well prepared. Taken as a whole I have found it most gratifying and have learned a great deal. Being able to meet and talk with trainees has taught me that the trainees are a good investment in the future. Ramon Moran San Juan Willard McMillion Robert Mendez Son Francisco Son Francisco This Seafarers Educational Conference has been a great thing in several ways. Meeting old timers, finding out the facts of the past and outlook for the future, for ourselves and the young men in the future. Our outlook for the retirement homes, which lots of seamen never had, this school at Piney Point has given me a better understanding how bad a man needs an education to man the new ships coming out and especially the political future of our seaman. After coming to the conference at Piney Point I was impressed and I learned so much about the his­ tory of the SIU. Collie Loper Mobile Ralph Ruff Baltimoro I was surprised to see Piney Point, but after being here for the educational conference, I got a better outlook on the union and the programs that we are in. I have now learned a lot more than I knew before this conference, and have a new outlook on the school programs. I visited the library and all the classes. I am sur­ prised to see what the union is doing for the new boys coming into the union. The training being given to our boys will make them better seamen and better union men aboard ships. I wQuld like to congratulate the staff and members for the fine job they are doing with the boys at Piney Point. The educational conference was very helpful to me, and I think it was good for the members who partici­ pated. As for myself I learned a lot on union affairs, and how hard my union works for me. I am glad to know there will be more conference to inform the membership. I foimd that the Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship was more than I thought it to be, and found it to be very good school for young men who want to make a living by going to sea. It gives them some of the basics of ship life and also academic and vocational training. Lucien Fred Drew • James B. Dixon Mobile 5- i^ ^ One of the most dramatic battles fought during early history of the SIU centered around the struggles for welfare and other social benefits for seamen. When the SIU was chartered in 1938, there were no ben­ efits. The fight for social benefits began in the day of Andrew Fureseth, the Patron Saint of seamen, and had yet to achieve its goals. By the time the SIU was organized, conditions improved. We had a hard fight but in 1951 we started to receive our vacation ben­ efits. Since 1951, it has gone ahead. My stay at Piney Point has been a very educational one and enjoyable one. I have learned that it is more to being a union man than just belonging to a union. Every Seafarer that belongs to this union has the same right to come to this conference that I have. I hope that this conference can continue. I have been one of the brothers that has talked about a lot of things, not knowing the facts. Brother, I know some of the working facts of this union. I can tell another story now that I have had a lot of things cleared up for me. 8EAPABEeS*10G SBAFARERS^HOO Norfolk Everyone involved is to be commended for the arrangement of this entire operation and among the tops are the ladies, as teachers, instructors, or what­ ever their position. In the conversation I've field with various young men, I gather these good women add spice, lifting of morale, and general inspiration. Many, without knowing it, take the place of mother, sister, or any other loved one who is missing out of some young man's life. The library is of vital importance to many, and just the workshops are a fellow's dream. They are striving for top grades because they fully intend to make a career of going to sea. I am happy in my heart that so many are getting the opportunity without coming up the hard way like me and so many others. Another great achievement is the home for some of us old timers now getting under way. They will be a great help in providing us with a home within a home where we can spend our last God-given and blessed days in our chosen environment, close to and beside some one that speaks our language. A seaman, over a period of time, develops a language of his own. S. Wilson New Orleans I am glad to have been able to come to Piney Point. I think the program is of great importance to the membership. Since I have been here I have learned a lot about the union and its problems that I didn't know before. I think these conferences should be continued and all members be encouraged to come here and see first hand what is being done here. Seafarers Log �'A Healthy and Vibrant SlU' R. R. Michaelis I':' > .-i r/-. Houston From its inception the SIU has been an illustration .of continuous progression, from the early status of •unsteady adolescence to its present-day streamlined adulthood. In 1938, its first steps were guided and directed under the able leadership of Harry Lundeberg, who is now considered to be one of the labor movement greats. Paul Hall succeeded to this office in 1957 and was instrumental in molding, expanding, and polishing this maritime union until it is now one of the most power­ ful and effective organizations in the labor field. The SIU is no longer just a union, but more rightly an institution in form. It is highlighted by the recent creation of the Piney Point installation, which is a facility that embodies the training, upgrading, educa­ tion and recreation of seaman, on a thousand acres tract of land. Upon my being selected as a delegate in the March, 1971, conference to be held in Piney Point, I was both delighted and impressed with what has and is being done in this area of the SIU. The Lundeberg motel and food were pleasant and adequate. The con­ ference program and education was well organized as to subjects with available literature and length of du­ ration. The entertainment and recreation were enjoy­ able and relaxing. All of us were impressed with the trainee precision program that prepares newcomers for shipboard life. Most of us now feel, as SIU members, we have something more concrete to identify with, in the sense that, we all contributed towards bringing these about, with the struggles of the emly years along with the efforts and support of the present member­ ship. It is also something that holds for a more prom­ ising future with the junior members. Kenny Coats As I carry on as an active member, it will be my duty to carry the word to the less fortunate who could not attend and enlighten and inform our brothers of the facts and knowledge that I was so fortunate to have absorbed and gained. Hope our leader Paul Hall will remain in good health for years to come for without his effort, loyalty, and guts we could easily have been in trouble many times. t Arthur Rummei New York 1 I consider myself fortunate to have once again had the opportunity to participate as a member of our delegation. Sorry I could take no part verbally, (lost all teeth) but my interest was not lacking throughout the meetings. Was particularly impressed with the eagerness of our members to gather knowledge in reference to our daily sessions. They certaintly refreshed my memory. To me Piney Point is a stepping stone to the future and well-being of our merchant marine. The trainee here certainly is well trained and informed, so that when boarding a vessel he has the qualifications to carry out his job with knowledge and with respect for his superiors. Many thanks to our officials who so diligently car­ ried out their duties on the workshops and made our stay here a memorable one. May 1971 Max L. Stewart New Orleans James F. Cieator Baltimore In the two weeks that I have spent at the educa­ tional conference I have learned qualified answers to subjects pertaining to all concerned seamen in the SIU. To know that this imion has been responsible for creating one of the finest seaman educational centers in the country, the HLSS, the course it offers to the young man who plans on making the sea his career, is a good comprehensive one. To cover all facts of the conference would take up too much time. I can only voice my sentiments by saying that all these conferences, educational or other­ wise, are very well worth while. I realize that most of the good work achieved has only been possible by the fact we are fortunate enough to have such good and competent leaders. To keep such leadership we must protect and uphold their actions, by contributing to the legal and political organizations to protect us. The training program for these young men here at Piney Point seems to me to meet all the demands for preparing a person for life at sea and the maritime industty. The educational system is really a good idea for all—for the others who for no fault had no chance for education, the drop-out, the young man who had to quit his education to support a family, etc.—^this gives them a second chance to acquire ffiis schooling—^to finish high school if desired and go on to greater and better opportunities in the future life ahead. The farm project is a good, sound idea and invest­ ment—^for those who wish to continue and be near the life that they have pursued for the most part of their lives—^it appears that this farm will be selfsupporting, that the funds put into this project will be coming back at a later date. Jose M. Castell Son Juan D. R. Creamer Houston The first school class I was in we learned about the history of the union. I learned when the first union was formed, and the bitter fight they had and how they fought for a better union, better wages, better living conditions. I have learned a lot about the past. I have learned about the long hard struggle they had. I learned about the contract and how it is negotiated between union and company to set wages, overtime and living condi­ tions with higher vacation and welfare benefits. Yes, it has been a long hard fight, but if anything is worth having, it is worth fighting for. Wilmington The educational conference has made me more acutely aware of the overall massive and complex struggle the SIU is involved in. Its past history, present policy, philosophic and rational projections for the future, present a picture of a healthy and vibrant SIU, a maritime labor union that radiates and com­ mands honor, dignity and quality, obtaining all the aforementioned through self-discipline and its own efforts. I have always maintained that education was the answer to many of our problems. HLSS is the rejuvenating element as attrition takes its toll of those still on the firing line. I sincerely feel the progressive thinking, actions and wisdom of those responsible for this nonviolent revo­ lutionary approach to issues will be acclaimed a miles­ tone in the recorded annals of maritime labor history. Today this is the significance, to me, of the educa­ tional conference. Tomorrow is also a day. This conference has given me the true faith that I can pass on to my shipmates as first hand knowl­ edge of Piney Point. The farm at Piney Point and the future plans for homes for Seafarers and families. And what it will mean to them in the savings in food prices. Also in better living conditions. The following is an explanation of what I have learned on this two weeks I have been on the Harry Lxmdeberg School of Seamanship Training Center. In my own words, I never believed that we were going to get so far in such a short period of time. In 1942 when I was 16 years of age I didn't even have an idea that one of my sons was going to be one of these fine school members. My son now has been going to sea for over 3 years and we members of this great union have made it possible for him to upgrade himself and have all the opportunity that we didn't have ourselves. At the time I started sailing, our union was only 4 years old. But now it is 33 years old. This SIU is the greatest seafarers' union in the "whole world." M. Steen Son Francisco I found the Harry Lundeberg School excellent and a big asset to our union. Charles J. Frey New Orleans Ballard Jackson Norfolk The necessity of electing the right politicians, a better understanding of our constitution and con­ tracts. A thorough understanding of where the different donations go and what they are used for. More knowledge of the welfare and pension plan. More about the Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship. The training the young men are getting in this school. The vacation plan set up here at Piney Point for Seafarers and their families. SBAFAREB8)|fU>0 My stay here has been extremely pleasant. I find it very difficult to be critical of anything. I have received nothing but courtesy from both the staff and the trainees. The food was superb and the service excellent. I would suggest that the post exchange be expanded to include film, especially Polaroid. While here, I have missed television in my off hours and since the major stations are distant, I would suggest that outside television antennas be installed on the motel roof top together with the necessary cou­ plings for outlets in every room for private television. I would further suggest that in developing the farm, a section be set aside and facilities be provided for electric, sewerage and water to service recreation ve­ hicles; campers, trailers, and motor homes. Recreation vehicles are a fast growing thing; something that all the family can participate in. I hope this is given serious consideration. I believe the group was handled very well, split up into small segments in the workshops, and we were able to have some individuality. And I especially liked the question and answer sessions in the afternoons. Mr. Hall is a very gifted speaker. I was impressed with his ability to field ques­ tions from the fioor. My confidence in Mr. Hall and the Seafarers International in general has increased tremendously. An added bonus has been the opportunity to meet the various officials from all the ports; it will be very valuable in many ways especially in future elections. Page 33 �'Go to Piney Poinf and Learn: •BATAUnUMdM D. Schaeffer Wilmington There are simply not enough words to describe the tremendous job which the HLSS is trying to do for the young and upcoming seaman of tomorrow. Not only do they have the opportunity to learn a little about seamanship, but they can also obtain a high school diploma if they so desire and also upgrade themselves. Dollar for dollar, the Point offers excellent vacation facilities for the membership ihd their families. So to sum up, we have come a long way and we stUl have a long waiy to go to obtain our ultimate goal of a better and stronger union. J. Stringer Houston I recommend that any seaman, and especially some of the older book men, to go to Piney Point and learn about the functions of our union.. Was glad to see young men, many drop-outs from school and some with minor beefs with the law, have a chance to stand up and change. With the instruction and training they get, most will make future good shipmates and union brothers. Piney Point is not only for young men but for members to up-grade. It is also a vacation facility for ourselves and families. I am sure that most of the elected delegates came to Piney Point with the same thought that I did. I heard before coming to Piney Point, that it was just a place where the new men coming in worked in order to become seamen. After being here a few days I found that this was true in the beginning of Piney Point, but now we have something to be proud of. We now have a program that combines vocational, academic, and trade union education. We will, within the near future, have a seamen's community^—^which I believe we not only need, but should also support wholeheartedly. I would like to state that I believe all members should continue to support SPAD and also the Mari­ time Defense League. E. H. Walker SBAPABEES*«)0 H. Whitman Seattle Houston I joined the union in Tampa, Feb. 5, 1942, and I went to sea 26 years and I retired in 1968. One thing I came up to the conference is to see what the young boys are doing. I enjoyed being here. I hope to come up again. Alfred Ray Sawyer James Harf Son Francisco I had heard that we were wasting a lot of money and time up here for nothing and was advised not to come up here as I would have to work my a— off. I have found that none of this is true and have also learned for myself to get the facts before making a decision and not to jump to conclusions. This also is true in relation to our elected officials, our contracts, obligations such as backing our union 100 percent in its entirety. I have learned that we will be better informed about everything that we have studied, all of which has been in the Log at one time or another. I was very happy to learn about the farm and housing for something is finally being done about a home after retirement. Seafarers Educational Conference from March 1 to March 14, 1971, as seen and understood by me: Labor History—^A good history of the labor move­ ment, especially the maritime labor movement in the past as pertaining to the SIU. Legal—^Aspects of laws in the past and present that affect the SIU and maritime labor. More support should be given by members to aid SPAD financially. Contract—The best in the industry, that spells out a member's working conditions, pay and living condi­ tions, his right before the employer, welfare and vaca­ tion security included in the best of maritime con­ tracts. , Political Education—^As a union member and citi­ zen, every SIU member should participate in all phases of political activity especially in the political field of maritime legislation as this fight is a continu­ ing battle between our union and those who would destroy us. Pension, Welfare and Vacation—Once again SIU members find that they have the best of all three in the maritime industry. While other maritime unions pension and welfare benefits are in financial trouble, the SIU continues on sound financial and future plan­ ning with the idea that what is best of all members is the best policy to pursue. Education—An important aspect of the SIU for it brings to all members the knowledge learned in the past, and what may be required of the future. The program of scholarships is second to none in the labor union movement. The area of trade union education should be further emphasized aboard ship. Constitution—The SIU Constitution, the single most important document that applies to every SIU member. John C. Green Norfolk I enjoyed my stay in Piney Point very much and I think what they are doing for these boys will make them fine union members and good SIU men in the future. I think the HLSS is the finest in the world and a good place for a young man to learn about seaman­ ship and get a good education as well, with God's help and the SIU. I hope it will go on for ever. Also since my stay at Piney Point I have learned more about the union and its by-laws than in the 25 years that I have belonged to the Slli. I hope I will have the chance to come up here again to attend another conference in the near future as I think all brothers should. It is a very learned cause and I am looking to attend the next one. D. H. Gibson Jacksonyille Baltmore Vincent J. Fitzgerald New Orleans In this particular workshop each day has been excit­ ing due to one fact. We took a different topic and went all through it step by step. Labor union history from Andrew Furuseth right on up to date. The leg^ aspects of labor unions, its importance, its pitfalls, namely outside agencies, rivals, police who are ever watchful regarding all our people, the different mal­ contents who try to live off either the company's contracts or our union; then our political action field which is so very important to all members ashore and also that we have the right politicians in office who are helpful to our people. SPAD and Maritime Defense League and the im­ portance of always being ready moneywise to assist in both fields and to explain to our absent brothers in our outports and when we go back aboard our ship the necessity of keeping these things going as it really is our very lives that are concerned here, namely our future, as has been said when we came from where we are and where are we going, that's very important. • We have all seen with our own eyes what is being done to prepare our future SIU men. Going to sea is a very honorable and just calling in life. Our dedicated officials, falling together as one team these many years, the same tried and true ofl&cials who have banded together and made us come such a long, long way. I truly believe that due to our workshops we will all return to our various ports and let our brothers know that their interests are really being protected. Let me start by saying that this is my second time here and I have seen the improvements that have been made since then. I have seen where our money is going—for the membership to have something and somewhere he can call his own, and a place to enjoy as well as to retire and live. As for the schoolboys, it is a good feeling to know that after I retire there will be someone carrying on where I le;ft off. The job Brother Paul Hall is doing: He is doing well, but he has to always be ready to fight when the time comes, and has to stay alert at all times. One mistake and we stand to go down the drain. As for the equipment here, it goes back a long way, and it is good for the members and schoolboys to learn about it. It is good for the boys to find out about the long struggle from the start until now, and it is good for the boys to get all the training they can before shipping out on their first ship. Workshops are very good for all. •EAFABEBSSLOG Seafarers Log �'Should Not Have Been Missed' •EAFAMMXLOO Willie Grant •EAFAM—»»LOO Jacksonville The HLSS is the largest training center for Mer­ chant Seafarers in the United States. To me the school is very good and one I hope I can come back to. I learned about the union and Piney Point and seafarers education, labor union history, and trade union issues, contract, pension, welfare and vacations and constitution and union meetings and shipboard behavior. I love the food and the Maryland Room and one day I hope my family will come down for a vacation. Bobby Lisf-er Houston Thomas Caylor Mobile When I came here I did not know what to expect. After attending the various classes things are more clear to me . . . some for the first time. I have learned about SPAD and the legal defense fund. I also learned the whole story of the bull beef contribution. I visited the farm and learned of the plans for that. The homes and recreation area that are to be built there. I also am better informed on the school and its activi­ ties, present and planned. I also learned of the voca­ tional opportunities that are offered here at the school. To close, this has been a very informative conference and should not have been missed by anyone that had the opportunity to attend. [ F' ")V . I ' r'-i . - r ^ l/: ' I'.' f Robert E. Hartley Tampa William Morris A. |l,i Since coming to Piney Point on my second confer­ ence I thought that I was well informed from my first, but since I participated in the educational program, I knew that there was a lot more that I did have to learn about our union. In any future conference I will be willing to come, because I feel that there is still a lot that I would like to know about my union, which means our union. Brother seaman, I think in a future conference that you should participate in really a great educational program. And I should say that there should not be five or 10 SIU conferences in the future, but a 1,000,000, if possible. 1 i ,; - !-• New York While attending the crew and pensioner conference, and even when I worked at Piney Point, I was honest­ ly amazed. But there is no end to my surprise and elation at each succeeding visit. There is always some improve­ ment and betterment. All the finest superlatives, for me, are expressed in two words — Piney Point. The scope of the program in progress or being contemplated is so varied that each one is beautiful, but I know that they will all be successfully con­ cluded. James Sanders New York We have covered various subjects of and about our union. I have learned an awful lot that I would not have known if I had not attended this conference. We have seen on what and why our money has been spent. I have nothing to say against this spend­ ing. I am proud to be a part of it. I believe as long as the members support our oflScers we will still get farther ahead of those that are forever trying to break us up. I do believe we have the most able officers and they are forever on their toes in the problems we have ahead. As I said before I am proud to be a part of this. SBAFARERS^MM The one thing that impressed me most about this conference was the fact that every question asked was answered in great detail. Like a lot of other brothers, I, too, had some misgivings about the course our union was on, to the point that I became apathetic. Since arriving here and participating in the conference I now realize it was because of a lack of communica­ tion and imderstanding of the problems confronting our officials. Nearing the end of this conference I take back with me a renewed confidence in our unity and a firm purpose to take a more active part in doing all I can, to help in any way I can, to solve these problems. Furthermore, I resolve to encourage all I come in contact with to visit Piney Point so they, too, may see the new course our union is taking to the betterment of the membership. Let us apply J.F.K.'s famous quotation to our­ selves, "Don't ask yourself what your union can do for you. Rather, ask yourself what you can do for your union." Ernest R. Hoitt New Orleans In the past 14 days here at wonderful Piney Point, the SIU has made a first in all of maritime unions. The SIU has made it possible to study all phases of this industry for some 250 members at the same time. Another great first is that our President, Paul Hall, answered any and all questions in all areas of great concern to us seamen. In the past 14 days we studied nine subjects such as union history; political education, and political ac­ tion; pension and welfare; education in trade unions and vocational; Constitution, our bible and bill of rights; contracts; the Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship; and union meetings and shipboard be­ havior. We have had the wonderful chance to find out just what SPAD does for us and also what the Maritime Defense League is all about and how to use it. We also found out just what the indictments and the injustices mean to all of us. There have been so many firsts in the past few years that I can say again as before that I am very proud to be a member of this wonderful SIU. I wish to give a personal vote of thanks to the cooks and waiters and all others that were responsible for putting on and the service of the food. I can only give praise and thanks to all the people responsible for this and all other conferences. J. Morris Jacksonville This educational conference is one of the most important to me because I am soon to be a pensioner and can look to the future and see the strength the membership shall have. I also see that I shall not have any worries as able and capable men shaU replace me. My part in this union shall be carried on by the men coming into Piney Point now. But most important, I have had explained to me what I am going to get from the union and also what medical aid I shall receive after retiring. To know I shall have a place to come to talk and to live if I desire is also a load off my mind. And because of this I shall be able to relax and enjoy my remaining years. Willie Graham Jacksonville I have been told about Piney Point but never was able to come until this Educational Conference. Since going to class on subjects about the union, I have learned more about the imion and what it has done in the past and what the union will be faced with in the days ahead. I have enjoyed all my classes and the summary in the afternoon. I have also seen what a real good job is being done here at Piney Point. I have enjoyed the Maryland Room and also my family one day will enjoy what the union and the member­ ship have done. L Fiorentino New Orleans Because of my limited education in the English language, 'cause I was educated in Italy I can't say much; what could I say; only that I have been very impressed in this great masterpiece; that is, Piney Point and the Lundeberg School with all these facili­ ties such as: motel, restaurant, lounge, and all kinds of recreation and most of all the farm I like best. Con­ sidering that I don't know a thing about farming, maybe it's because I'm getting close to pension time. I thank all the personnel for everything. SEAFAEERSjItLOG Page 35 WW �7 Will Always Carry My Head High' SBAFABIBS^lmO Lawrence P. Hogan New York William M. Donovan New York A prominent feature of the conference, in my opin­ ion, has been the high degree of general competence in the staff administration in the discharge of instruc­ tional duties. While there is and has been a constant degree of knowledge by the delegates on the various subjects, technical and non-technical, which have been discussed. One of the most dynamic features has been the eagerness of the ofBcials involved to receive our sug­ gestions and recommendations. The zeal of the delegate has been more than match­ ed in this conference by the sincerity and bona-fide purpose of the administration. A. E. Moore New York Never have so many sailors owed there livelihood to so few than the men who sail SIU ships and on pension. This is because the leaders of this union has been so fair and honest. Piney Point in the record of all their hard work and I will always carry my head high as I am so proud of this union. I endorse every­ thing that we have here for the young and old and pray that it grows and grows till we are known world­ wide. I will try my best to come to Piney Point each and every time I have a chance. Thomas L Harrell Houston On opening this essay, I will go so far as to say that I was one of the last to volunteer to come up here. On arrival I was amazed at the informative and comfortable surroundings. By informative, I mean the various antique artifacts, models, and exhibits con­ cerning sailors of the world and their past. I thorough­ ly enjoyed the weekend and then started into business which was intermingled with pleasure masterfully. Our first subject was labor history which I had never investigated before. It told of our forefathers and what they endured and fought to improve and accomplish what we have today. The second subject was the union and law. The instructors impressed upon me the various pitfalls en­ countered by our leaders and the different laws that can be used against them. The importance of Mari­ time Defense League and in the fight to better our­ selves. The third subject was union contracts which dealt with our working conditions, wages and benefits. How a contract is gained and its importance to the mem­ ber. The fourth subject was political education and ac­ tion. The importance of SPAD is immeasurable in that it is our only weapon in which to scale Capitol Hill iti order to gain what we need to better ourselves. Then the weekend of enjoying ourselves; boating, bowling, shooting pool, visiting farms and various other recreations. On Monday we started business again on the sub­ ject of pension, welfare and vacation programs. It was explained how it works. What it provides and the very importance of these documents. Also how important it is to fight to keep the USPHS hospitals open. Page 36 Well, here I am back here again. This is my third time down here. The first time here I had my wife and my youngest boy and his wife and four children and we had a ball here. They can't get back here fast enough this sum­ mer. That goes for me and the wife. The second time was the Pensioners Conference. This time it is the Educational Conference, which I think is 100 percent educational, believe me. I learned more here on politics than I ever knew before, in fact, I could take a senator's job now myself! As far as the kid students are concerned, I have been in all the shops and I watched them. They sure get a very good start here, at least when they leave here they know something. Then it is up to their ship­ mates to take over and show them from then on. Well, I want to thank President Paul and all the ofiicials who made all of this possible. I am looking forward to the houses you are going to build here. Thei\ I can come down here and stay in Piney Point for the few years I have left in this old world. Walter Grosvenor New York Digesting our two-week tenure here at Piney Point, I've found all topics brought up daily in our class most enlightening and constructive. Beginning with supplements one to four, where we discussed our union history, political contacts in Fed­ eral operation, the many legal issues, the advances we've made in seaboard contracts compared today from the days of the old Morgan Line also including the cuisine and crew accommodations here are superi­ or. Then, too, the outrageous maritime bills exercised against our union were terribly unfair and unjust. Continuing on from supplement five to eight, dis­ cussing the pension and welfare plans. The average pensioner does not have to speculate about his checks and welfare attention in the future for himself and family; a wonderful system and amazing foresight on the part of our executive officials in setting up such a powerful plan in comparison to the inferior operation of our competitors. The vacation plan now existing is ideal for the active seafarer and appreciated by all concerned. The Harry Lundeberg School for Seafarers at Piney Point offer the best of accommodations, tasty meals, numer­ ous recreational activities at amazin^y rock-bottom prices. Dollarwise the whole picture is a fantastic, economical blessing. Then the HLS of Seamanship where the youth is trained and schooled in modem atmosphere and pro­ fessional instructors in all seagoing facilities—an amazing enterprise successfully operated. Then our huge farm with all seafarers looking forward to the homes of tomorrow for the member­ ship and families with apartments with modem facili­ ties plus accessibility to supermarkets, schools, rec­ reational areas. Thomas Navarre Wilmington Leonard Maham Jacksonville What I received from this conference covers a lot more broad range than I had before attending the school at Piney Point. I picked up many topics I knew very little about and some new ones. I can truly say I am very proud of our leaders and what they are doing. I am sure it is for our benefit, and ours only, so I feel whatever course they take our membership will follow whole­ heartedly. From what I have seen and heard at this conference, education plays a very big part in politics, schooling and the family man to bring up the standard of living, which in turn will make every seafarer stand tall and be a very proud man. I am sure if we can keep working, we will support every move our able leaders ask for or make. I always say if you do something or get something, get the best, and brother, I firmly believe we have it. P. Gallegos Son Francisco I have been a member of SIU a little over four years and now have B seniority. I nominated myself for this conference when I saw that not enough of men were interested. I figured this would be a good chance to find out how the union was run and the purpose of the differ­ ent activities. SPAD and MDL are the two things which members bad mouth the most. I now understand the purpose for these and am for it 100 per cent. Without them the union would never have accomplished the things it has. In President Paul Hall and our other elected officials I feel we have a well organized team of competent men who are looking out after our best interests and deserve all the backing we can give them. Sandy Crawford Philadelphia In this conference I learned a lot. In the two short weeks I've been here I have learned what I didn't know in the years I've been a union member. I have a very good idea about all the training here. The trainees will be good union members from the begin­ ning. This wasn't meant for me, but I feel no regret. I have two sons in the Navy and if I could offer this to them maybe I could offer this to my grandsons, too. Nick Martin Attending this 1971 educational conference was without a doubt, the most constructive thing ever to be done in this membership. Of course, during this conference everything was said and corrected in refer­ ence to rules and contracts, so this pleases me. The quarters, food and service in the dining room was outstanding. This includes the bar and front offices as well. There isn't anything left to say except that I am proud to be part of this membership and have learned more in these few days than I had learned in the past twenty years at sea, and I will attend the next conference if I'm about at the time. And last, Mr. President, I can't see anyone to fill your shoes, please hang on for lots more years. Houston Coming to this conference in an unenligihtened sense of what it is all about I find myself very much in agreement with everything that is taking place and will take place here in the future. I am very much in favor of having more confer­ ences, to enlighten our union brothers as to what our officials are trying to do here. I think this is an important phase in our lives and well being, so I for one would like to see it continued for as long as possible. I am thankful for the chance to have participated in the conference. Seafarers Log f �'How the Infant Has Grown was expected of me and in which way I would be able to help. Here I am two weeks later, much wiser and experi­ enced, participating fully in ^ activities, debates, ar­ guments, policy making; for which I am very grat^ul. When I get back I'll have to do a lot of explaining and of course I expect the usual argument to ensue out all this, but I am sure that IH be able to convey most of what I learned without too much trouble. I am also proud of the fact of having taken part in the history of this union while it was being made, even though I didn't join it until 1943, and much more proud of its constitution, of HLSS and the staff and students that participate in it. Robert K. Goodnicic Baltimore The essay I was asked to write containing one hundred words or more about my stay here in Piney Point from March 1 thru 14 attending this Education­ al Conference, and what I have learned, cannot start through that period of time but dates back to the time when I originally joined this union and became a full book man on January 16,1946. All through those years of sailing, it was my thought the union was only there for me to procure a job, apply my dues, assessments, etc., go out on any picket line and help in any way possible, money wise, that was assigned me through proper union authority, until I came to this educational conference here at Piney Point. Here I was taught just what this imion is and what it is striving to do for my fellow members, and the youngsters that are being taught here. In the 10 days of classes I have attended here I have learned more about this union than in the twen­ ty-five years that I have been a full book man in this union. There is one particular subject that was discussed in Workshop No. 4 that was of real significance to me and that was Supplement No. 4 pertaining to Political Education. Out of all the nine supplements, this taught me more than any of the rest and it is my contention that this subject be brought before the membership at regular meetings in all ports, taking myself as an example, I never Imew what SPAD stood for. Now I know. Francis F. Gomez Mobile well as educational, that my union is involved in in the daily struggle for the welfare of its members. I've been most surprised at the complete freedom allowed to us to entertain in constructive criticism of our union, by all our officials, including Paul Hall. It has been an intelligent gathering of union mem­ bers and regardless of the amount of money spent, it will pay off in the long run. Rey Fiquera I joined this union back in 1944 and have been an active seaman since that time. It was tough going when I started out but not tough enough to stop me from fighting for my union and livelihood. In the process of doing my job and fighting for my union, and helping in every way I can, my union has grown and is still growing. Since attending this confer­ ence, which is my first time in Piney Point, I am very proud of myself for helping, and proud to see that my union is putting my money to good use. I want to thank each and every one, from our president, all the way down, for a job well done. Will ask our oflBcials to continue the good work and they can depend on my full support. My time spent at the conference was very educational and enjoyable. San Francisco John Wright Son Francisco William T. Macicey 1 like it here at Piney Point and learned a lot about the history of the SIU . . . especially the part about the SPAD Donation, that without this donation the Maritime Bill of 1971 would have never been passed. New York I I' Charlie Mazur F i< ii i- ' New Orleans These are my thoughts and observations on the first educational conference of the SIU which I had the privilege to attend at Piney Point from March 1 to 14, 1971. How the infant has grown! From its first headquar­ ters on Stone St. to its present strong and infiuential position in the maritime trades industry. Because of the farsightedness and dedication of our president and elected officials, along with the backing of an ever militant membership, we are and have this respected place in organized labor today. The Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship and adjoining farm at Piney Point, first and only institu­ tion of its kind ever established by a labor union in the long history of the labor movement in the USA, is conclusive proof of the calibre of the men who have guided us through those 33 years of our existance. It is a tribute to their leadership and it will stand as a monument to the man who conceived the idea of it and, in his lifetime, was able to see it become a reality. How fortunate we in the SIU are to have this man for our president. How confident we must feel that Brother Paul Hall shall continue to lead us through the difficult years which lie ahead. The SIU is indeed in good hands. When we leave Piney Point and return to those ports from which we came, we must remember all that we saw here and what we learned. We must pass on to our brothers in the union halls and aboard our ships at sea all this information. It will help to keep them informed and thereby keep our union strong, always. 1. The labor union history—I have learned enough history on how our union became great through strug­ gle, hardships and success. 2. The legal issues—^The legal issues of 1936 was the Wagner Act giving us lawful rights to organize and bargain collectively. 3. The SIU contract—^The unions were given a legal and tangible agreement between the employer and the employees. It is fair. 4. Political education—^The recent fight for rights is effective. 5. Vacation and welfare and pension plan—^The Pension and Vacation plan is worth while, especially when we retire. 6. Vocational and academic trade union program— I have the right to study in our own school. 7. The constitution—It is the law of our union, this constitution, adopted in order to improve our society. 8. The Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship— We are taught in our workshop how the Harry Lun­ deberg School of Seamanship will improve. 9. Union meeting and shipboard behavior—I am confident that our meetings are quite fair about our behavior and understanding. F. Munoz San Juan Like any other delegate that came to this place for the first time, I am quite impressed; prior to this invitation, I have done a lot of speculation on what 8BAFARBBS)|tLOO The Educational Conference at Piney Point has had a very personal enlightening effect on me. I was a trainee at the inception of the Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship based at Piney Point, Md. When I was stationed here for a period of approx­ imately five months, all we did was work from 6 or 7 a.m. till 5 or 6 p.m. at breaking ground to lay pipeline or carpentry work or swinging sledge hammers while demolishing some of the old structures on the base. As you can see doing this work left very little time to learn the skills of seamanship and to receive union indoctrination or orientation. When I arrived here at "the Point" on Sunday, Feb. 28, 1971, my surprise was paramount. I couldn't believe my eyes. The layout and security, and the discipline that was enforced among the troops was very impressive. The accommodations were com­ fortable and pleasant the staff went out of their way to make sure all was in order. The classes started on Monday morning at 8:30 and that was when my first imion education started. Since that most enlightening morning until the termi­ nation of the conference on classes on Friday, March 12, 1971. Some of the subjects covered during this period were, labor history (a complete look into the history of the SIU and the labor movement from birth up until the present time). We discussed the legal aspect and workings of the union. We went into the contract, "The Bible," in depth and I must say there was a hell of a lot that I wasn't aware of. The political aspect and how we stood in the political arena was covered and again my attention was drawn to the fact that I was a pretty ignorant union member. I truthful­ ly think this conference has been an education. Protasio Herrera Philadelphia As a member I have learned more in these two weeks about many things than I have learned during my eleven years in this industry. I am also happy to know and see with my two eyes about these new recruits who will take over our place when oldtimers retire from this industry. And I am also happy and give a vote of thanks to our president and all the oflBcials who attended this education conference that gave me more knowledge for what we fight for. Also a vote of thanks for our good facilities and the good food I had these two weeks of stay here in Piney Point, Md. Joseph F. Freiei New Orleans It has been quite an experience. It's sad to say it, but my education as a good union man started today at Piney Point, 26 years after I joined this union. I have gained a complete and new way of positive thinking about the affairs, political as Page 37 May 1971 -r- • �'Do Not Delay fa Call or Johnnie B. McClenton S. B. Ferrer Jacksonville Son Juan There is a matter of very special importance that I would like to bring to you at this time. I am an upgrader throu^ the Harry Lundeberg School. I came to this school in 1969, the months of July and August. I got my lifeboat ticket and my "Able Seaman" document. I myself can say that Harry Lun­ deberg School is one of the best things that could have come to the SIU. Brothers, I can tell you that since we have H.L. School we have better cooks, better deck hands, and black gangs. I am proud to be a brother of the SIU and to know that I have a place for me and my family to go and live if I desire too. If there is anything that my union wishes for me to do, I hope that they do not delay to call on me. Thank you, brothers and Mr. Oiairman, for letting me express my feelings toward HLSS. I hope that one day the union will send for me again. Firstly, I like to congratulate our leadership on a job so well done and so skillfully organized. We are here with one sole purpose of learning what's being done for our future and how our union funds are being spent. The whole thing covers many uses. First, instruc­ tion and education. Second, the need of high intellect in Washington, D.C., and third, as our counselor said "to communicate." Communicate our findings to the rest of our membership who have not been as lucky to attend this conference. We have come to a stage where a man in the 1940's had the bright foresight to acknowledge the urgent need of representation of our labor movement in Washington, D.C, where a brain staff was mostly needed. As our president. Brother Paul said, "Just a stroke of the pen in Washington could destroy all we have." Let us keep our ship looking straight to the hori­ zon. Let's keep on punching. L Goodwin New York My stay at Piney Point has been a great experience. With 30 years as a seafarer, these conferences re­ freshed my mind in many subjects. I propose a clinic for alcoholic counseling for those in need. We all know seamen are fairly educated, but drinking is our big problem. I would like to see more help for seamen along these lines. John Harrobin New York I was never here before, so after rumors and hear­ say, some good—^some bad, I was taken by surprise and shook up a bit at what I saw, and the great progress that had been made. It sure took plenty of planning plus some very hard work, sweat, and freez­ ing. I was impressed with the number of boys here in training, their behavior, their caliber, all-arotmd disci­ pline. The installations are a work of art, the ships, quarters, meeting-place for all workshops, lobby, res­ taurant or Anchor Room and, last but not least, the Anchor Bar and entertainment. I sure go for the manner the boys handle colors in morning and at night. That is the only flag for me always. The routine in general for boys and delegates is full of action, enough to satisfy all hands. So in ending I think every SIU man should come down and see for himself. Anthony Ferrara New York I suggest a yearly or semi-yearly educational pro­ gram such as this. All members should attend not only for their own good, but also for the good and advancement of the union. The officials should be included. All should be brought up to date on union affairs and plans for the future. . A booklet "Ports of Call" should be published to be given to all members and made available in all ports and put on all ships in the ships' library. This could contain places of interest to see, monetary exchanges, not necessarily the exchange, but the currency used. This booklet would be of immense help to the trainees, too. The union should do something to erase the stigma attached to the profession of seafaring. This could be done by public relations to enlighten the public on various aspects of a seaman's life and career. Since the SIU has been in the van of such a thing, it should take the lead. The MTD and other maritime bodies should be made to assist one and all in this affair. Union should try and make arrangements with ho­ tels for a room that won't cost an arm and a leg. Most seamen, when they are ready to sleep out, are pretty well broke. In New York, the St. George Hotel was a place you could get a room for $21.00 a week by just showing your union book. This is no more. Nylon line and sack cord is being used a lot on ships and a knowledge is required to splice and maintain, and I suggest a course be made available for interested persons. This also could include other things like wire splicing or any other thing on board ship that the person may be lax in. i-.' if Page 38 The las' ] pleasurabi It is a boys in H them mor, when they As far i is a very I make us < aboard shi do not kn( I think enough to boring. For any their while i Also, w! beautiful f ] portunitiesi see for theii Marian Lublejewski New York After coming to Piney Point to this conference, I was glad to be part of this great imion and leadership. What I have seen here, I wish every SIU member should be and must be able to see for himself. I am now on pension, but still active in union matters. I congratulate our president and staff of Piney Point for a job well done. Raymond W. Hodges Baltimore I have been in the SIU over 26 years. I have learned more about it at Piney Point than I did the rest of the time I have been in the union. I think the conference and vocational and the academic instruc­ tors are doing a good job of preparing the trainees for a futmre life at sea. When they start the high school comse for active seamen I will be one of the first to apply. I think the educational conference should have been started a few years earlier. We would have been a better informed membership. I think there should be more conferences held in the future. Everyone able to attend a conference should do so. Dennis Maddox Houston I left Houston with the thought of this place here as a bunch of old buildings out in the sticks. When I got here it looked like a private country club, or a fancy resort area. I had the feeling that these classes were going to be borirtg. This is the first time since the 6th grade that I haven't skipped class. The first day really interested me. I've always liked history, and this history about the American seaman is very interesting. I even went to the library to find out more about our union history. I even found out later, in the workshops, the mean­ ing of SPAD. I have asked many a man about it, and they didn't really know. The Maritime Defense League contribution fascinated me, also. The third day was about our contract. I never really read our contract thoroughly, only the part in it that pertained to my specified job. That evening I really read it over. The fourth day was about the political education. I now know what SPAD is doing for us. We discussed the political actions referred to maritime bills. It, also, was very interesting. Our constitution interested me also. I am glad that I now know the meaning of it. I'm now glad that I know my rights. I think 11 I have bees union and | the young well infor I believe There is a Point is we future sea Thanks As all cd happy and in the near With thol questions sd enced grouj answered ai and overtir to all us sea The futui membershi): gressive lea keep us anc these conve brothers paij In the pa tional Unioij ence held atl ship, feel thj "full speed In this used time etc. We ha\ litical educa mighty big or these "old take back tc we have leai| are. On the with somethj have been that is monel members wh letter word. It is in m5 conference but also ouil there is nevi always the lij broken lock! bunks, etc. l| castle, heaosl conference o| others will sc In closing! as this one be �'Wond b Me I |1 ir IV I F> 1 vh Peter Gebbia, rful Place for Future Thomas Foster New Orleansit two weeks has been enlightening as well as I would like to express my ... . ,. .. , Point issue and on the confere™^®'^"}.^^"^^ they are domg, with these Point is a wonderful place for fu^^?', t®aching them discipline so as to make SlU. It is a stepping stone for ® and better equipped aquaint themselves with the futun f P* . j ^^ mijou as the conference is concerned, I think there . T large amount of knowledge to be gained to tu / young men ^idgr members better equipped to go back J'® .®P" and try to explain matters to those who s^ m life, and to understand wh,^ j^e score and are in doubt. a 1 about. , , the length of the conference is ideal, long As for the educational conferer, be interesting and not so Tong as to be way for our union officials to gel ® what the membership toinks of c, „<.mbem on the beaeh, it will be worth also ^ves us the privtleg to tnej conferences, our offimals from all of the portShH^ here, a member can get to see what a have only heard about and have .hce Piney Point is, and the unlimited op­ to. me conference should be h here. If they come for a vacation, they can year m the future. nselves. LeRoy Fansli San Francisco Don Fleming ,I believe . I# - " Ifc , /r >f our country, even .ucation and a good lat organized labor is Adrien Fecteau F. W. Fulbright Seattle Mobile 'ice, it is a wonderful t a balanced view of "ir union activities. It et and talk to all of whom our members . never seen or talked leld each and every Really I can't find any words in my limited vocabuary strong enough to ever state the opinions that I have of this wonderful place and praise that I have for our President Paul Hall and other officials here at Piney Point. The farm, motel, cafeteria, recreation room and different schoolrooms, the vessels etc., are just a few that I can mention and above all the facilities for our old timers that are or soon will be on pension. The prices of room, meals, are so low that I just can't see how it can be done. Finally I am leaving Piney Point with the knowl­ edge that I now have nothing to worry for the rest of the five years to come. While attending the SIU Educational Conference, 1971, I was surprised and pleased to observe the thoroughness of training programs for entry ratings. The academic programs are particularly impressive. The physical plant is well laid out both for training and vacation. The teaching aids and classroom equip­ ment appear to be the very best. As to the conference itself, I believe that I have learned more about the imion in two weeks than in the previous twenty-seven years of membership. A continuing series of conferences might have a benefi­ cial effect on the union educational level and on the relations between leadership and members. views on the Piney ,nce of 1971. Piney ture seafarers of the our imion to better ,5 membership of our Jacksonville Houston >on come to a halt. . , it is hopeful such educational conferences that coming to this con educational thing that can happen members. I know as of this conference why that it is the way it is and hope that all other members under­ stand it better. I am sure that all at the conference will leave here knowing the purpose of our school and understand the working of our union better as on a lot of these issues we were in the dark or didn't understand at all. er After several days at the Pinef^^^ conference was very well planned, looking into almost every nook,' enlightened on the background of the from the lower decks of the storaj^® reason for Piney Point. The education mattresses, pipe fittings and sup"'®'' tomorrow receive is great. They are the fire station and under the hoo^®^ the past, present and future, truck, vintage of the 1930. Viewf there should be more of these conferences, harbor, it soon came to me that c^ft that all the members could learn. Piney was missing was sea gulls . . . 'h planned. I can see of no reason why the and cry of the gulls of which '®'' won't be a better grade of seamen, hearing. However, I suppose we the opportunity to come to Piney Point. Indian crows for a substitute to i sphere. Harry Huston The land and harbor here is v of the best we could have obtaini Fronc/sco training center, recreational, polbnference delegates have stated, I too . am facilities, if we are impressed, ypleased to be here. I also intend to return iticians and shop owners will be future. it is also they, too, that we will Irough dispatch. Brother Hall answered the 7'>!itical people we are trying to diot at him from the floor by a real experiof our people. The ship owners, sp of sea lawyers. All my questions were the new breed of people it will tzad explained, from coffee-time, to time-off, of the future. The old seaman, the . . . the three T's, which are important man of the water front bars andmen. the newer people of World Wire of our union and the security of our truckers, shopkeepers, they in tuP as planned with forethought and by agthe new people who will be edu<dership with ambitious future actions to the sea and union activities that ii the industry in business. I know more of dreams. ntions are in the offing and hope all our I have seen the farm area, whirticipate as we have, in, having been brought up in the and working in the west coast pc 5^ Ferro and trucking industries, every d factories, cities, looking at new th Jacksonville 50 years. ist two weeks I, of the Seafarers IntemaI can look into the future anci, having attended'an educational conferdone with the bay and inlets, the; the Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanpeople. is conference is a move for an old saying, ahead," yes, in a program long overdue. C M >nference we heard the word "old timer" c. McKenneQ^ by our president, officials. Son Francisco^ covered labor legal issues, contract, Poition, pension, welfare, and the God AlI ^ sure glad th^ I am a boCour letters, SPAD. Let it be said that we could come to Piney Point. ^ timers," whether it's in age, sailing, etc.. And if I get to come back ag^ their brothers in their home ports what ®°™®* , , . , ned here and what the hopes of the future This IS better than I thought boats are No. 1. ... >ay-off" let these "old timers" come forth And the new farm housing is gyj. sPAD for in the past lots of us come and see. lassing up what we are fitting for and Also that pond with its waterfaly needed to fight our cause. Let's all book something to see and the trees as Aether A, B, or C fall in line for the four gate. And just everything you co one or two weeks of rest for you a^ hope that everything brought out in this your family. le set in action by not only the little man. And the school boys are sure. patrolmen, etc. Let us remember also • marching and holding colors magj a "big problem" aboard a ship, it is men and new men is what we aittie ones that cause trouble, such things as place, Piney Point, is 4.0. Keep it j-ugty lockers, no cabinet, mattress, n generd it is the condition of the foren • P MjBr4-i ^ brought out in our uario r. Marri^ ,, In 14 days I learned things and differences in opin­ ion on what SPAD means to our organization. I be­ lieve that every member of this union should learn what the real meaning and what is the purpose of the union to be involved in political activities. As for Piney Point, I think that the only way to believe what is going on in here is to be here. Jr. Baltimore "'"'toied to the future. Seafarers Log / Point facilities and I crack and cranny, \e barges, (where the plies are stored); to '.A of the old USA fire |ng the layout to the ine of the things that .Jthe smell of salt air I we are all used to j| could import a few ound out the atmo/ithout a doubt, one ,r* ;d for our use. As a tical, and retirement )u can bet the poljimpressed also. And liave to educate. The jo right, for the good jo that we can supply Tike to man the ships le rough and tumble dives, gave way to ir II. The farmers, n are giving way to :ated in the ways of J beyond our wildest Joseph Gareiio ik member so that I ain you can bet I'll Boston New Orleans We were asked to write an essay of our stay and what we learned and felt about our stay at this confer­ ence in Piney Point. The most important subject to me was SPAD. I never knew just what it really was for. By attending this conference, I found out what it really means to all SIU members and I am sure that my shipmates do. It has proven what it can and will do. If we did not approve of it, we never would have been where we are or achieve what we are after in the coming years. Piney Point, to me, is unbelievable. It is a must for all SIU members to see. I have learned a lot at my stay here. I am always glad to come to Piney Point. For one, this is the best vacation spot I ever seen. The old saying is you are never too old tq learn. I enjoyed every minute of the educational conference, and will go away with the satisfaction of learning some of the working of our union. I would like to say that the personnel cannot be any better for their courtesy to my fellow delegates and myself. The food, excellent, wholesome and wellcooked. The picnic grounds are well set up for sum­ mertime use. I never get tired looking at ships, school rooms in Sonny Simmons and other school rooms. The teachers are some of the best in our nation. Was very impressed with our library. Never been in any library." This is a first for me. Had the pleasure of looking at some of the old Logs. Some are well taken care of. A special bouquet to the teachers of our classes. With the material they had, they did an outstanding job. Many thanks for allowing me to be a guest. :h I have no interest harbor of San Pedro irts in both shipping ay visiting different ings daily for all my see what could be area for the retired Thomas D. Garrity Kenneth Gahagan Houston The educational conference has taught me many things that I didn't understand as to the legal issues. Defense is not for pie cards alone but for all mem­ bers. I now know why we have political activity and what it means to the labor movement as a whole and to the Seafarers. If they are to live these things are a must. I know what SPAD is and how it helps us to make laws that help us to gain more and keep what we have. The pension plan has been a sore spot with all G. Galliano New Orleans I believe that we are all correct in the conclusion that this conference is necessary. I further am con­ vinced that it has been successful, informative, sur­ prising. Few of us really had any idea what we were head­ ing to upon leaving our respective parts, and surely, the surprises were pleasant. One of the less pleasant surprises was the realiza­ tion of our ignorance, as opposed to stupidity. The stupid ones will remain stupid, but the overwhelming majority of us will leave here happily, infinitely much better informed. We will be closing our briefcases today for the last time in this conference, but I hope sincerely that it won't be for the last time. We must keep it open always for in doing so, so will help our minds forever remain open. Joseph Gibowicz Baltimore . The motel, pool, SBAFARERSiltLOO omething I want to 1 and all the grass is ou come in past the uld want for a nice nd the better half of good looking when kes them look like e looking for. This going, I'm for it. nos nice at Piney Point: ference is the most :o any member. After these long years of going to sea, I finally received a chance for a conference at Piney Point. To me this is a far cry from the days when I first started sailing. My only wish is that we could have had these conferences in my day. As I shall retire shortly, I shall always remember this short two weeks when not only was I able to meet old friends, but learn what it will mean to me when I retire. I have received answers to questions on retire­ ment. I saw the men who shall take over the duties that I had on the ships. I leave this school knowing that I am turning over these duties to able and capable men. HLSS is an excellent establishment and a credit to SIU. In conclusion I wish to say that I leave Piney Point a much better informed person, and am grateful to the SIU and its membership for making this possible. V May 1971 . Viff: 'S" Page 39 �SEAFAIUBRS*U>G -i OFFICIAL ORGAN OF THE SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION « ATLANTIC, GULF, LAKES AND INLAND WATERS DISTRICT • AFL-CIO Tirmmmrnmnrr Honor Roll These are the men who attended the Seafarers Educational Conference. These are the men whose recommendations will help to shape the union's policies for years to come. These are the men who wrote this special report. 11 Baltimore B. Browning R. Oarke J, Qeator T. Foster J. Gibowicz J. Glass R. Goodnick J. Green R. Hodges E. Jones B. Pomerlane R. Ruff J. Snyder H. Thomas J. Winfield B. Wilson B. Zawacki Boston S. Cieslak J. Carello E. Riley Houston D. Abraham E. C. Bamhill C. H. Behrens B. Butts R. Cotton D. R. Creamer P. Drozak G. Delgado R. Gahagan T. L. HarreU C. Hernandez G. Jarvis W. Joyner B. Kazmierski H. Kennedy C. Ual B. G. Lister D. Maddox N. Martin D. Martinez R. McPhiUips R. R. Michaelis J. L. Monciief P. Perry H. T. Ruth F. Sellman J. Stringer F. Szoblik R. Threatt E. Walker R. Wilbum J. McQenton J. Morris W. J. Morris J. Osteen J. Reeves J. Sherpinski Mobile J. Bamett J. Broadus J. Bush T. Caylor J. Coleman J. Dixon H. Ducloux F. Fullbright F. Gomez C. Loper L. Neira H. Roberts A. Saxon W. Simmons A. Smith C. Waldrop ^ New Orleans G. Annis H. Arceneaux W. Barron P. Cebbia H. Chemel J. Cobb F. Conforto " J. F. Fiesel L. Fiorentino V. J, Fitzgerald C. J. Frey G. Galliano T. Garrity E. Hoitt P. L. Hunt T.Lewis L. Mazur V. Pizzitolo N. Savoie W. Simmons L J. Sherman B. Stephens M.-Stewart F. Stirk, Jr. J. P. Stroud W. Tank J. Thomas* S. Wilson C. Young New York W, Anderson M. Bass A, Bernstein I. Bouzin W. Brabham E. Casey J. Collins W. DeFrancisco J. Devine W, Donovan A. Ferrara B. Fields L. Goodwin W. Grosvenor J. HaU J. Harrobin L. Hogan R. Johnson E. Joseph W. Koflowitch G. Komminos F. Lebda L Logart M. Lubiejewski W. Mackey E. B. McAuley G. McCartney H. McFall J. McGelland A. Moore W. Morris O. Myers A, Nelson B. Nuckols M. O'Toole J. Parrish J. Preshong P. Pron E. Robinson O. Rokka J. Rosario W. Royes A. Rummel S. Sanders I. Sclease J. Sweeney B. Varela H. Wilson B. Zumkley Norfolk S. Arales H. Bennett L. Drew B. EUiott B. Jackson L. Price A. Sawyer G. Spencer T. Stubbs J. Wilson Philadelphia D. Backovhz J. Bergeria T. Brennan S. Crawford V. Domingo J. Fay P. Herrera T. Kelley R. Kirkwood C. Marshall J. McHugh F. Pasaluk E. Toner San Francisco D. Barry A. Bertrand E. Davidson F. Drozak L. Fansler R. Figuera P. G^egos J. W. Givens B. Goose J.Hart H. Houston E. Johnston W.King E. Lamb E. McKenna W. McMilUon J. Mendez C. F. Nysla O. Rosales S. Rothschild R. Schrum M. Steen R. Sullivan D. Ticer H. Walters R. Wood J. Wright San Juan L. Carbone J. Castell P. Fernandez S. B. Ferrer B. Lasso G. Morales P. Moran F. Munoz A. Rodriguez Seattle J. AUen E. Brewer J. Dawson P. DiCapua A. Fecteau P. Greenwood W. Robinson J. Ryan S. Troy A. Waters H. Whitman � 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 1970-1979 Description An account of the resource Volumes XXXII-XLI 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 May 1971 Description An account of the resource Headlines: REPORT OF THE PRESIDENT SEAFARERS EDUCATIONAL CONFERENCE SIU HISTORY: LESSONS FROM THE PAST WORKSHOP CHAIRMAN REPORT ON SIU HISTORY THE UNION-AND THE LAW WORKSHOP CHAIRMAN REPORT ON LEGAL ISSUES GUARANTEES OF THE SIU CONTRACT WORKSHOP CHAIRMEN REPORT ON CONTRACT POLITICAL EDUCATION POLITICAL ACTION REPORTS ON POLITICAL EDUCATION AND ACTION PENSION, WELFARE, AND VACATION PROGRAMS CHAIRMEN REPORT ON FRINGE BENEFITS TRADE UNION, VOCATIONAL AND ACADEMIC WORKSHOP CHAIRMEN REPORT ONE EDUCATION SIU CONSTITUTION: A DOCUMENT AFFECTING THE LIFE OF EVERY SEAFARER WORKSHOP CHAIRMEN REPORT ON CONSTITUTION HARRY LUNDEBERG SCHOOL: A LOOK TO THE FUTURE ALL SEAFARERS WORKSHOP CHAIRMEN REPORT ON HLSS A SPECIAL CONCLUSION WORKSHOP CHAIRMEN SUM IT UP SEAFARERS SPEAK OUT 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 Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 5/1/1971 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. XXXIII, SE 1971 Periodicals Seafarers Log