http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/4c8d77b51a406e79bec339468b5bf249.PDF d3ade0fa511e4377410087ce42321365 PDF Text Text .?r4:' OFFICIAL ORGAN OF THE SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION • ATLANTIC GULF, LAKES AND INLAND WATERS PISTRia • AFL-CIO �2 SEAFARERS LOG President's Report W: Never Give Up '>, 'Ail t#^0 </ Pf • MARCH 1994 Pena: Pauls Putin Budget To BevitaUze U.S. Fleet Generally, once the U.S. government issues a final rule most people accept it. But that's not the case when it comes to the Members of the Clinton ad­ SIU. When situations arise in which the welfare of Seafarers ministration announced tha and their families and the profession itself funding for a U.S.-flag merchant are threatened, the SIU accepts no govern­ fleet revitalization program has ment decree as final. been included in the 1995 budget. Fighting to protect the calling and the Speaking last month at the livelihoods of Seafarers is the union's AFL-CIO Maritime Trades primary function. The union fights against Department (MTD) annual ex­ any discriminatory practices toward ecutive board meeting, both Transportation Secretary Seafarers, whether in the form of an unfair Federico Pena and Maritime Ad­ government tax or any other scheme which will have an adverse effect on SIU members ministrator Albert Herberger said Michael Sacco they are working to implement a and their families. Some of these fights are 10-year, $1 billion Maritime big, some are small. Some are easily winnable; some are tough Security Program (MSP), which and drawn out. Some are fought on many fronts. Some have was announced by the White only one target. But in the end the details of the fight do not House on February 7 as part of the matter; what matters is the objective—fighting in behalf of Fiscal Year 1995 budget. Seafarers and their interests. "Our comprehensive ap­ The so-called user fee the government has been attaching to proach is inclusive and it lifts up merchant mariner documents and licenses since April 19,1993 the entire industry," Pena told the Before the MTD executive board, Transportatlon Sec'y Federico Pena is, in effect, a work tax on American seamen, and so it is an ex­ board, whose membership comes states funding for maritime revitalization is an administration priority. ample of a fight the union has become engaged in and will keep from 28 port councils and 42 af­ The board also heard from on board the vessels for the filiated unions representing eight fighting. members of Congress, trade Department of Defense during million workers. The beef first started in 1991 when the U.S. Coast Guard is­ union officials and the head of the national emergencies. All MSP sued a notice that it was m^ng a rule that would result in fees Federal Mediation Service on vessels would fly the U.S. flag For more coverage matters ranging from maritime to and carry American crews. Also, being charged to mariners for the issuance of seamen's docu­ of the MTD meeting, national health care reform to in­ eligible vessels must be no more ments and marine licenses. In response to the notice, the SIU than 15 years old. ternational trade. lodged strong protests over the scheme with the agency. In addi­ see pages 6 and 7. If implemented, the MSP tion to the objections raised by the SIU, there was an outpour­ If Congress approves the "Previous attempts had would begin October 1 when the ing of protest from individual seamen and boatmen, maritime focused on one of these issues or MSP, it would provide funds for new federal fiscal year starts. companies, other government agencies and mariner training the other and they failed. I believe approximately 52 U.S.-flag mer­ Vessels registered wittiin the pro­ schools. In all, the Coast Guard received more than 3,000 com­ the stakes are too high and the chant vessels in the foreign com- gram would receive $2.5 million opportunities too great for us to be mercial trade. Among the in each of the first three years. ments on the proposal. satisfied with anything short of a SlU-contracted companies ex­ This would be lowered to $2 mil­ Despite the vigorous and near unanimous opposition to the pected to take part in the program fee from all elements of the industry, the Coast Guard ignored comprehensive strategy," he added. are Sea-Land, Waterman, lion for each following year During the two-day meeting, the objections and issued a final rule last April which imple­ Crowley and American President through Fiscal Year 2004. The program would be funded by a mented the fee scheme. When the final rule went into effect, of the MTD formally kicked off a Lines. national petition drive that calls tonnage tax, which would bring in all the voices which had opposed the fee, it was the SIU which on By participating in the MSP, approximately $100 million in Congress to pass and the presi­ did not stop fighting. As soon as the final rule was in place, dent to sign legislation that willkeep companies agree to make their Continued on page 7 which meant the matter could be reviewed by a court, the SIU the U.S.-flag merchant fleet viable. ships available or provide space filed a lawsuit against the discriminatory fee. The SIU invited other maritime unions to join in the fight and, to their credit, each responded with enthusiasm. Last month the union presented its case, as did the Coast Guard, to the judge assigned to this case. More than likely, the judge will rule on the suit in the next few months. It is our hope that he will agree with the union's position that the fee is a disguised tax and the manner in which the fees were set was Proclaiming that "a strong flawed. If, however, the judge allows the tax to prevail, the maritime lies at the heart of a union will consider a number of other options as part of our strong country," House Majority practice to keep fighting against any injustice or unfair practice Leader Richard Gephardt (Dagainst our membership. Mo.) led a congressional bipar­ To keep fighting is our mandate. If we stop just because the tisan show of support for the going is too rough, or because we get too restful, then our fight­ U.S.-flag merchant marine during ing instincts are gradually smothered. And it is our fighting in­ the Maritime Trades Department stincts that best serve our mission to protect and advance the (MTD) executive board meeting well-being and welfare of Seafarers and their families, our last month. profession and our industry. Gephardt was one of five rep­ resentatives addressing the board Educational Opportunities who stated they would work to Seafarers, spouses of Seafarers and children of Seafarers implement a maritime revitaliza­ who are considering higher education should take advantage of tion program during this session the scholarships available through the union and its plans. of Congress. April 15 is the application deadline for grants that will be is­ Speaking ab^ut the sued for the school term which begins in September of this administration's proposal to in­ year. The scholarship monies can make a big contribution to clude a 10-year, $1 billion House Msgority Leader Richard Gephardt (D-Mo.) pledges to the MTD the cost of a college degree. Maritime Security Program executive board that Congress will pass maritime revitalization pro­ I urge any Seafarer or his or her family member who has (MSP) within the Department of gram with a funding mechanism this year. higher education goals to take a shot at the Seafarers' scholar­ Transportation's 1995 fiscal year ships. budget, Gephardt said, "I and Solomon noted the bill "repre­ cargoes to be carried aboard U.S.others in Congress are going to be sents a major step toward the built, U.S.-flag commercial ves­ fighting on your behalf to see that revitalization of this industry." sels with American crews. Mcirch 1994 Volume 56. Number 3 that entry into the budget is more He added that he is optimistic that "Cargo is the lifdblood of the than an entry—^that it really hap­ legislation will pass before the merchant marine. Widiout iL there end of this year and the country simply will be no merchant The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 0160-2047) is published pens." will "be on our way to restoring maiTine," Solomon said. "And that Boosts industry monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District; AFL-CIO; 5201 Joining Gephardt's call to im­ our merchant marine to its once is why it is absolutely necessary for Auth Way; Camp Springs, Md. 20746. Telephone (301) plement maritime legislation was mighty status." the U.S. government to fully com­ 899-0675. Second-class postage paid at MSC Prince Rep. Jerry Solomon (R-N.Y.). He Concerning another matter ply with our cargo preference laws. OeOTges, Md. 20790-9998 and at additional mailing reminded MTD board members dealing with the U.S. merchant "Instead of finding creative offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the of the bipartisan effort in Novem­ fleet, the New York Republican ways of circumventing those Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, Md. ber to pass H.R. 2151, the voiced his concern that the laws, would it not be refreshing if 20746. Maritime Security and jCompeti- Department of Defense is trying they spent that effort promoting Managing Editor, Daniel Duncan; Associate Editcffs, Jor­ tiveness Act, which is ^rVing as to circumvek cargo preference U.S. vesselsT' he asked. dan Biscardo and Corrina Christensen; Associate an outline for the Clinton funding laws, which call for a certain per­ EditCHTPreduction, Deborah A. Hirtes; Art, BiU Brower. Continued on page 6 centage of Defense Department proposal. ••• -V.-Sis-"-'-- • Key House Members Vow To Enact 1995 Ship Bill il .iaw>v.-UH. • �M^H1994 SEAFMERSLOG G SIU Presses Case to End Seamat's Work Tax The SIU moved ahead in its fight to have the tax on seamen employment set aside with St- an appearance before a federa district court judge on Februar 24 in Washington, D.C. The union's lawsuit seeks to ban the fees which the U.S. Coas Guard has been charging for mer­ chant mariner documents (known as z-cards) and marine licenses The fees went into effect on Apri 19, 1993 after the agency had is­ sued its final rule on the matter. As soon as the final rule was in place, making the issue ripe for a court challenge, the union filed its lawsuit, arguing the so-called user fees were nothing more than Federal District Court Judge Louis F. Oberdorfer listens to the SlU's maritime unions: The Coast Guard's table is to the left. Seated in the a thinly veiled tax on seamen's arguments against the Coast Guard-imposed tax on seamen's employ­ audience are Seafarers, many of whom have applied for upgraded ment. To the right of the union's attomey (standing before judge) is the documents and licenses since April and thus have been subject to employment and therefore un­ plairrtiffs' table where the SIU was joined by representatives of other the so-called user fee. constitutional. The lawsuit also charged that the manner in which the attorneys at the plaintiffs The union argued that the fact fees were established, Frulla said. Additionally, union counsel the fees were established is table was SIU Executive Vice that the charge fails to meet the In setting the fee structure, the argued, the Coast Guard built into flawed and based on inaccurate President Joseph Sacco, NML narrow requirements of a user fee Coast Guard adopted a "trust us" the fees a 29 percent overhead and out-of-date information. Counsel Michael Derby and Karl makes the fee an impermissible attitude and never showed or con­ charge without providing any Schwartz, staff editor for the employment "tax" for seamen firmed that the cost and personnel details on why that amount is Maritime Unions Join Suit MM&P. In the audience were and boatmen. As government data they used were cmrent or relevant to the process of issuing In submitting the lawsuit to the some 25 Seafarers, many agencies such as the U.S. Coast accurate, he said. The data the marine documents and licenses. United States federal district whom have upgraded their docu Guard do not have the power to Coast Guard used was, however, This charge "is not related to court for the District of Columbia, ments and licenses since Apri tax, and only Congress can levy at best "suspect" and at worst documentation. The Coast Guard the SIU invited other maritime and have thus been subjected to taxes, the so-called user fee on grossly flawed. The agency es­ is making ballpark guesses," said unions to join in the legal effort to the unfair tax. marine documents and licenses tablished fees for marine docu­ FruUa. end the work tax on seamen. should be disallowed, the SIU ments and licenses which range Seamen and boatmen "are not In the union's opening state In addition to the SIU, which ment, attomey Fmlla stated thai counsel said. from $35 to nearly $3(X) based on looking for rocket-science The court also must examine that erroneous information, the encompasses the Sailors' Union the charge for marine documents Continued on page 14 the unfair manner in which the SIU lawsuit charges. of the Pacific and the Marine and licenses is in effect a work tax Firemen's Union, the following on American seamen and boat­ unions are plaintiffs in the suit: men and not a tme user fee. The District 4 - National Maritime union's counsel argued that Union/MEBA (NMU); District government agencies are only The head of the Departmen No. 1 - Marine Engineers Benefi­ egally allowed to collect fees for of Transportation urged Con­ cial Association; American 1 service when the service in gress to enact legislation that Maritime Officers (AMD), Dis­ question is primarily designed to would include all-encompassing trict 2/MEBA; and International jenefit its recipient. changes in the way the inlanc Organization of Masters, Mates indushy is regulated to insure Fees Unconstitutional and Pilots (MM&P). Additional­ safe operations along the water­ ly, five individual seamen are In the case of marine docu­ ways and coastal regions. serving as plaintiff. ments and licenses, Fmlla said, Secretary of Transportation the beneficiaries are primarily the Federico Pena outlined a series First Court Appearance )ublic, the environment and the ideasdeveloped by his depart­ Since the suit was filed in vessel owners and operators anc of ment to improve the safety sdong April of last year, the upion and not merchant seamen and boat­ America's navigable water­ the Coast Guard have been sub­ men. He demonstrated that, from ways. Among the proposals he mitting their positions in writing 852 to the present, laws address­ discussed were more stringent to the court Tlie February 24 hear­ ing the qualifications and ratings licensing requirements, ing provided a chance to l:x)th par­ and licenses of merchant seamen documentation of all boatmen. ties to make a presentation in can be directly linked to public Coast Guard inspection of all tug person before Judge Louis F. Ober- outcry for safe waterborne and towing vessels, testing and Safety on the nation's waterways must be improved, said TransporSecretary Pena (left) to a House panel. He urged Congress dorfer, who will rule on the case. transport of passengers and cargo, training of the men and women tation o adopt a comprehensive bill on the matter. At the hearing, the union was and, more recently, a clean, oil- who work on inland vessels and represented by attorneys Stanley spill-free environment. Inevitab- improved navigational aids Frulla said, each law was aboard the boats. M. Brand and David E. Frulla of His proposal would place compass and depth finder may the Washington, D.C.-based law passed in the w^e of a shipping Speaking before the House restrictions on the licenses based be necessary for safe navigation. firm of Brand & Lowell. Joining disaster. Coast Guard and Navigation on the route, tonnage or horse­ Another area in which Pena Subcommittee on March 3, Pena power of a vessel as well as the said he wants to see improve­ Highlights of SiU Case told the panel he and his depart­ towing configuration. Pena ment is the field of accident ment are prepared to work with proposed a three-year appren­ notification. Below are some excerpts from the court filings of the SlU's Congress in creating and passing ticeship as the first step to "The rule must be — when in lawsuit against the U.S. Coast Guard's so-called user fees for such legislation. He recom­ qualify for a basic license only. doubt, report," he stated to the merchant mariner documents and marine licenses. mended September 22 (the one• The Coast Guard employed impermissible factors, including its In order to advance, the subcommittee. He said there costs, public policy, and merchant seamen's ability to pay the year anniversary of the Amtrak operator would have to receive have been many times when a license and document fees to be assessed, in calculating [the] derailment in which 47 people "practical, hands-op training or pilot was in doubt whether to fees. In so doing, the Coast Guard seeks to impose what con­ died near Mobile, Ala. after a Coast Guard-approved report a barge striking an object. stitutionally amounts to a tax on merchant seamen." bridge was knocked out of align­ simulator course and pass a writ­ Such a change in the laws would "A fee must (1) be based on the value conferred on the recipient; ment when a tug/barge hit the ten, practical or simulator ex­ remove all doubts. capped by (2) be capped ov the agency's direct costs; and (3) not charge the structure) as the date he would amination or some combination In order to make sure such a service recipient for independent public benefit. like to place inland safety legis­ thereof." rule would be practiced, Pena "Every licensing and documenting initiative was a legislative reac­ lation on the president's desk for tion to a major maritime disaster (or series of theni) which killed proposed raising the fine for not Equipment Guidelines many memoers of the public and/or caused an environmental his signature. reporting an accident from catastrophe." The next step in the $1,000 to $25,000. Stronger Licensing Regs "Licensing and documenting was required historically and in secretary's approach for a safer Improve Navigational Aids preponderant part for the public good." Calling the effort to improve inland industiy is to establish The Coast Guard's calculation of its merchant mariner licensing waterborne transport "one of our guidelines for radar and naviga­ A fourth step in making in­ and documenting program costs is not based on legal or permis­ highest priorities," the secretary tional equipment on board the land waterways safer would be sible criteria and fails under the Administrative Procedure Act." outlined for the subcommittee vessels. to improve the aids to navigation The Coast Guard's time calculations [used in setting the fee] are lis ideas for increasing safety in He called for tugs and towin the vicinity of bridges and based on its and its regional offices' dated, hasty, and often the industry. Ijoats to have on board up-toother obstructions in the chan­ politically andbureaucratically motivated guesses." "FirsL more stringent licens­ date charts of the areas in which nels. The Coast Guard decided to apply a 29% surcharge to its ing requirements for operators they sail, current OT corrected As with the reporting of acci­ program costs to capture what it asserte is extra regional ex^ of uninspected towing vessels navigational publications and dents, Pena said he wo^d like to center-based general support/headquarters overhead for the must be developed, and these marine radar for surface naviga­ see the penalties stiffened for llronsing and documenting program." licenses should have levels of tion. "Neither plaintiffs nor the court need accept on blind faite the qualification," Pena said. government's assurances that the 29% surcharge pertains to The secretary also noted a Continued on page 14 mariner licensing and dcwumentlng." • / •Mr DOT Head: Inland Safety a 'Prierlty' . ••••;•• -a"-?.'••••SS'iJ V • •- ' ; .. ,. ii, '•i rrj-s •- > �4 SEAFARERS LOG MARCH 1904 ^ Backs nshamen's Pntest Tough Regs Limit Access te Greuiuifish Hshery SIU fishermen in New Bed­ gestions and vent frustration over to pay for the transponders if the New Bedford have spearheaded Claiborne Pell (D-R.I.), and Rep­ ford, Mass.face tough new the difficult times they face NMFS decides to reinstate their efforts to liken the fisheiy col­ resentatives Frank, Gerry Studds federal regulations this spring Those industry members notec use. All permitted vessels af­ lapse to any other natural disaster (D-Mass.), Olympia Snowe (Rthat are intended to help restore that for the first time, government fected by either plan would be with severe consequences for Maine) and Jack Reed (D-R.I.) also stressed the need for imme­ and rebuild the Georges Bank officials are admitting partia eligible, and those which already various local communities. diate short-term relief to compli­ igroundHsh and scallop stocks blame for the current state of the have purchased one could appl; According to an aide. Senator ment the long-run solutions being which have been in noticeable New England groundfish fishery for a rebate. Edward Kennedy (D-Mass.) ex­ pursued by Bullard. They pointed decline in recent years. due to its efforts to unnecessarily pressed displeasure over the SIU Presses for Relief put the vast importance of the The National Marine Fisheries build up commercial fleets over Commerce Department's slow fishing industry has to the Service, part of the Department of the past 20 years. Any type of economic assis response to the crisis in New economies of their states. The plan to aid industry mem­ tance package, however, is likely Conunerce, is gearing up to en­ Among the immediate com­ force their groundfish and scallop bers in New England is seen as a to be much longer in coming. In England. Kennedy contrasted this with the well-coordinated and munity needs are development fishery management plans begin­ model for providing relief to the meantime, die SIU has been high-profile response the Clinton funds for economic development, ning in March. (Groundfish is the fishermen displaced by manage­ pressing for near-term relief to Administration made to the tim­ development of new markets for general term for a large number of ment measures. alleviate the hardship felt by ber issue in the Northwest. under-utilized species, low-cost Frank, whose congressional many in New Bedford and other commercially important species debt restructuring, unemploy­ Recently, several congres­ such as cod, haddock, various district includes this coastal city, New England communities. ment benefits, retrofitting boats to sional leaders held a meeting with talked to Commerce Department flounders and more.) The frustration with the Com­ take advantage of new fisheries, Commerce Secretary Ron Perhaps more than any other officials and got them to postpone merce Depart- ment's slow region. New England's fish the requirement for Vessel Track­ response led hundreds of fisher­ Brown. Senators Kerry, and family counseling. stocks are thought to be in serious ing Systems or "black boxes men and as many as 100 boats danger of depletion. As a result, aboard both scallop and including SlU-contracted the area is becoming a testing groundfish vessels for up to six vessels—to sail into Boston Har­ ground not only for extremely months. bor on February 28 to bring their Both the scallop and groundfish plight to the attention of Governor strict measures to reduce fishing effort, but also for structuring recovery plans require the purchase WUliam Weld and the people of economic assistance when of these expensive tracking Massachusetts. This action has The AFL-CIO announced its conference that the academy is an federal efforts to manage devices, which cost about $5,000 brought the issue to the fore at both opposition to a- Clinton ad­ essential part of the nation's fisheries fail. plus monthly connection fees, to state and federal levels, but no con­ Henri Francois, SIU Port monitor the restrictive "days-at- crete actions were in place as the ministration proposal to cut fund­ maritime system. "Maintaining and improving ing for the U.S. Merchant Marine Agent in the port of New Bedford, sea" limitations. Seafarers LOG went to press. Academy in Kings Point, N.Y. this system is especially impor­ recently attended the second of However, as the Seafarers and to begin charging tuition to tant at a time when ongoing eight planned meetings in North­ Economic Earthquake the men and women studying at developments in shipboard tech­ eastern coastal communities with pointed out during the amend­ In Washington, Senator John the institution. nology require seafarers to pos­ Rep. Barney Frank (D-Mass.) and ment process, these black boxes In a resolution passed unani­ sess advanced knowledge and John Bullard, head of the new are both intrusive and unneces­ Kerry (D-Mass.) has succeeded Commerce Department Office of sary, and so this delay will give in attaching language to the $7.6 mously at the national labor superior technical skills," Sustainable Development and In­ the industry an opportunity to billion California earthquake •edefation's executive council Kirkland stated. "The administration's tergovernmental Affairs. An es­ )rove that a call-in system can relief measure. Kerry's amend­ meeting last month, the AFL-CIO timated 300 concerned New work. The SIU has opposed the ment authorires the Secretary of called on the White House and proposal to reduce the academy's Bedford fishing industry repre­ government's plan to force Commerce to make up to $550 Congress "to continue full fund­ funding and charge tuition would sentatives including SIU officials ishermen to acquire and use the million available to the fishing ing for the U.S. Merchant Marine be a further abdication of and members overflowed a local so-called black boxes. industry for disaster aid. Francois Academy £uid to make maritime government's essential role in meeting room both to make sug­ Frank promised to seek funds and other community leaders in training and education an impor­ preserving a domestic merchant tant element in a comprehensive fleet and a corps of highly policy to rebuild the domestic- qualified merchant seafarers. We flag fleet." have long decried the The resolution was presented government's failure to stop the )y the Maritime Trades Depart­ severe decline of the U.S.-flag ment, after its executive board merchant marine, which has [lad passed a similar resolution played such a critical role in inter­ Rep. Helen Bentley (R-Md.) "properly address the privately the week before during its annual national commerce and in fulfill­ has vowed to ensure U.S. govern­ ownedU.S.-flag commercial ves­ meeting. ing America's military sealift ment compliance with its own sel preference requirements of The council noted that the requirements during wartime." cargo preference laws at a time MarAd." academy is symbolic of the im­ The idea to cut the amount of when the Defense Department Meanwhile, other cargoportance of U.S.-flag shipping to money provided to the academy proposes to establish test preference supporters are lining his nation. The loss of this as well as apply a tuition first programs that would allow the up against legislation introduced i)eacon would signal a loss of will surfaced in Vice President A1 waiver of such laws, ostensibly in last year by Senator John Glenn to maintain this vital industry. Gore's National Performance the interest of improving the (D-Ohio) Aat would allow the AFL-CIO President Lane Review, also known as the rein­ defense acquisition process. govemment to hire foreign-flag Grkland, who sailed as a mate vent govemment document, in U.S.-flag carriers and the ships to move American military during World War II, told a press September 1993. Department of Transportation shipments. That waiver is part of (DOT) are voicing strong objec­ the defense acquisition reform tions to the trial programs, under program, which in turn has roots which U.S. military cargoes in Vice President Gore's rein­ Rep. Helen Bentley vows to make would not have to be transported venting govemment plan. The Defense Department sure cargo preference laws are ad­ on American-flag ships. A longtime supporter of the claims that its pilot programs will hered to. An amendment to the Coast Guard Authorization Act passed by U.S.-flag merchant marine, not "adversely affect in a material effect" on the U.S.-flag merchant Zongress last year means Seafarers will have to take even more care Bentley recently told the Navy's way the economy [or] a sector of fleet. of the discharge papers they receive when signing off a vessel. Military Sealift Command the economy." As a result of the law, the Coast Guard will no longer maintain The DOT also is on record as But James Henry, president of opposing the trial programs. In a copies of merchant mariner discharge certificates. Although the law (MSC) and the Maritime Ad­ ministration (MarAd) that she the Transportation Institute, a letter to Deputy Under Secretary is not yet in effect, a Coast Guard spokesperson said an an­ specifically will monitor an im­ trade association representing of Defense for Acquisition nouncement regarding implementation is expected in the near future. minent military assistance ship­ U.S.-flag vessel operators in Reform John Deutch, the DOT When the law kiclu in, vessel owners will be required to maintain ment (25,000 tons of munitions) domestic and international com­ stated that it "has serious reserva­ discharge certificates, as well as employment and service records. for Greece to make sure cargo merce, pointed out, "By failing to tions about the proposed pilot These records will be available to the mariner and the Coast Guard. preference mandates are met. perform a regulatory impact program policy. . . . Allowing What this will mean to Seafarers is members in the future will no "I and many others in the Con­ analysis, DoD has ignored the ef­ cargo preference requirements to onger be able to contact the Coast Guard for a copy of a lost gress have received numerous fect that a waiver of cargo be waived by the pilot program discharge paper. They will have to contact the vessel owner to obtain complaints from the U.S.-flag preference statutes will have on would have an adverse impact on copy. However, the Coast Guard will keep on record all discharge maritime community about the the merchant fleet. . . . Cargo privately owned and operated (MSC's) attempts to divert preference is a core element of the commercial U.S.-flag vessels." papers already in their care. These will not be eliminated and mem­ military foreign assistance car­ government's oft-stated policy to At least one major U.S.-flag bers can continue to contact the agency for copies of these docu­ goes to Navy-owned" vessels maintain a strong commercial operator indicated that waiver of ments, the spokesperson added. Only papers issued after the new law under MSC's control, Bentley fleet, and must not be jeopardized cargo preference laws "could sig­ is implemented, which could be later this year, will not be stored by said in a recent letter to Vice Ad­ in the name of acquisition nificantly affect our interest in the Coast Guard. Discharge papers are very valuable to Seafarers especially when miral Michael Kalleres, who is in reform—an effort whose rewards continuing to exist as a U.S.-flag they file for vacation pay and pensions. The papers also are used to charge of the sealift command. for waiving cargo preference operator in the international prove time at sea which is needed for health benefits and drug testing. trades," according to newspaper Similarly, in a letter to would be speculative at best." Members are being advised to make a copy of each discharge as Marftime Adpiinistrator Albert Likewise, the American reports. they acquire them and store the originals in a safe, secure location. No hearings have taken place Herberger, Bentley charged that Maritime Congress warned that Once the implementation date is announced, the SIU will notify there have been frequent oc­ suspending cargo-preference regarding the legislation members through the ports and publish it in the Seafarers LOG. casions when MSC failed to laws would have a "devastating au&orizing the pilot programs. AFL'MO Urges Backing Of Kings Point Faciiity i . DOT, BenUey and U.S. Carriers Balk at Cargo Preference Waiver Hew Law Ends Coast Guard's Maintenance of Discharges ;/. :r/ \i • �MARCH 1994 SEAFARERS LOG 5 DespHe tey Watms, Lakes Season Unria Good Despite sub-zero temperatures icebreakers. It will certainly he a season and will he a major con^ and piles of snow that covered the tough opening," Nekvasil told a trihuting factor in the success of Midwest and caused most of the reporter for the Seafarers LOG. this year's fitout. However, the Great Lakes to freeze over this He noted that weather and ice Mackinaw is slated for decom­ winter, early indications are call­ conditions were not especially missioning this May. ing for a strong start to the 1994 conducive to the ore trade at the "The upcoming loss of the sailing season on the Lakes. end of the 1993 season. Ice for­ Mackinaw has many in the Great "Steel mills report high mations in the connecting chan­ Lakes shipping industry ques­ operating rates and are requesting nels were six to eight feet thick. tioning if early and late season fleets he ready to lock down with "Ice plugs" developed in certain operations will he feasible in fu­ iron ore as soon as the Soo Locks key sections, and commercial ture years," Nekvasil said. reopen this month," stated Glen vessels needed assistance from George Ryan, president of Nekvasil of the Great Lakes Car­ Coast Guard icebreakers to con­ Lake Carriers' Association, cau­ rier Association, which monitors tinue their transits. tioned that a March 25 opening the action of U.S.-flag shipping The ice along the St. Clair will he a formidable task if cur­ on the Lakes. River, which flows past the Al- rent weather conditions persist. Deckhand Cornel Tiger" Leahu (right) asks Algonac Port Repre­ The Great Lakes basin is the gonac, Mich. SIU hall from Lake "Even in a normal winter, resum­ sentative Ken Homer when he should report to his ship. heart of the American steel in­ Huron to Lake Erie, is shore to ing navigation is more difficult if dustry, hosting more than 70 per­ shore. "There is no doubt that the only because the absence of ves­ and refill all the pipes emptied 1993 wrapped up on January 15 cent oif the nation's steelmalang ice is had hut our crews will go out sel transits has allowed the ice to during layup to prevent ice from with the closure of the locks. A capacity. The production of one as scheduled and meet this cargo reach maximum strength and forming and bursting the pipes. year-end surge in cargo demand ton of steel requires about 1.35 demand. We are hoping for the best thickness. Now it is reported that Depending on what is being allowed bulkers to u^oad extra tons of iron ore, plus some quan­ season yet," said Tim Kelley, Al- Lake Superior has frozen over for done in preparation for the iron ore pellets, stone, coal, ce­ tities of fluxstone and coal. As a gonac port representative. the first time since 1978. That season, the deck crew will arrive ment and other products us^ in result, iron ore, coal and stone are means the ice field in Whitefish from a few days to two weeks the region before being forced to Heavy Ice the three largest commodities Bay could be unusually thick in later, and the vessel will depart a tie up. moved on the Great Lakes. The U.S. Coast Guard cutter March. Only the Mackinaw can couple of days afterward. Ifie association reported that "The locks will he open on Mackinaw, the largest icebreaker open Whitefish Bay under such during the 1993 season, U.S.-flag Late '93 Season March 25, hut how many sWps will stationed on the Great Lakes, was conditions and let the iron ore dry-bulk carriers were in service flow through will he determined by very active in keeping the ore start moving through the Soo SIU crewmembers got a jump a total of 317 days. Shipments of the Coast Guard and their trade going at the end of the Locks," Ryan noted. on the 1993 navigation season all commodities aboard U.S.-flag when the American Republic left lakers totaled 107.9 million tons, an FItotit Plans the port of Toledo, Ohio on increase of 2 percent over figures 'Titout dates are very tentative Febiqaty 18. The official season for the '92 season. Iron ore at this time," Kelley told the began on March 16 with the sailing remained the primary cargo for Seafarers LOG. "Inland Lakes of cement carriers Alpena and S.T. Great Lakes carriers—shipments Management and American Q-apo. Cement carriers are typical­ in U.S. bottoms totaled 56.6 million Steamship have given us fitout ly the first vessels out after winter. tons, an increase of 1.75 percent dates through Apifi and May but The Great Lakes season for over the previous year. we expect changes." He added that SIU members should be in touch with the hall to find out when ships will be crewing. As fitout begins, engine and steward department members will be the first to arrive aboard the vessels. While the galley crew takes care of getting food ordered and prepared for the season, the Algonac Port Representative Brian Brdak shows AB David Smith a engine department will make necessary repairs to the engines tentative fitout schedule. Hannah Tugs Never Stop New Cove Tanker Crowed by SIU Seafarers sailed aboard the ports throughout the U.S. Once the ship reaches a port, it Cove Endeavor, a newly con­ tracted tanker, for the first time on ties up to the designated pier and January 15 out of Portland, Ore. hoses (or chicksan) are hooked The vessel is considered to be one up to the manifold to onload or of the finest American flag discharge the cargo. The ship will remain in port between 24 and 30 tankers of its class. In ships minutes sent to the hours to complete this process. A1 Middleton, personnel Seafarers LOG by the Endeavor crew. Bosun Clyde Smith manager for Cove Shipping, told reminded the crewmembers that a reporter for the Seafarers LOG they are the first SIU members that "the union and the company aboard the vessel, and working have a very good relationship." together will make the ship as fine He added that the galley gang prepares excellent meals diat are as union ships can be. The vessel picked up its first enjoyed by the entire crew. "All cargo of crude oil in Panama and in all, SIU crews are hard delivered it successfully to St. workers, and they always get the James, La. The Endeavor will job done," Middleton said. The tanker is 810 feet long. transport crude oil to different 105 feet wide and has a top speed of 15 knots. Seafarers already sail aboard the other Cove Shipping vessels, the Cove Liberty and the Photo: Muskegon Chronicle Cove Trader. The SlU-crewed James A. Hannah pushes a barge of liquid fertilier Seafarers who sailed on the Endeavor's maiden voyage in the deck department with Bosun Smith include Timmothy Troupe, Nathanial Rivera, Ronald Huyett, Robert Brown, Paul Van Holiebeke, Matthew Sandy and Zaid Alderwish. In the engine department are Mark Grendahl, Dennis Riley and Steve Tebbe. Thomas Wybo, Ahmed Mutbana, and Mohamed Ahmed sailed in the steward department. from Chicago through the ice of Lake Michigan to Muskegon, Mich. For OTS Transport tugboats into the cleared path. and barges which are designed to The tug-barge combinations operate year-round on the Great each maneuver the tight bends L^es, the coldest winter in more and turns of the lakes' tributaries than a decade provided no breaks that others cannot. In the winter, in service for the vessels or their Hannah tugs can be found push­ SIU crews. As all five Great ing barges filled mainly with Lakes froze over—^many for the petroleum products on lakes first time in more than 15 years Michigan, HurOn and Erie. In the these workhorses delivered fuel summer months their cargos are oil through the bitter cold extended to include asphalL ce­ temperatures and heavy ice. ment and stone. "It was very slow for us this "The SIU men and women winter but operations never who crew our tugs are very dedi­ ceased," said M Hogan, opera­ cated and hard-working. You have tions manager for OTS Transport to be, to be able to sustain such (also known as Hannah tugs). weather conditions," Hogan noted. We have always requested some Three of the 12 SlU-crewed type of Coast Guard assistance, OTS/Hannah tugs continued but this year it seemed almost operations during the winter constant to get through the iced months to fill the demand for petroleum products along the waterways." Hogan noted that the Coast lakes.They are the James A. Han­ Guard was called in for track nah, Mary E. Hannah and the maintenance throughout the Mark Hannah. Other SlU-crewed Hannah winter months. He recdled that so much Coast Guard assistance is tugs which are in layup for the unusual for the tugs but became winter include the Donald C. necessary as the winter condi­ Hannah, Margaret M. Hannah, tions on the lakes became Kristin Lee, Susan W. Hannah, progressively worse. Coast Peggy D. Hannah, Daryl C. Han­ Guard icebreakers cut relief nah, Hannah D. Hannah, and tracks for the tugs, which allowed Mary Page Hannah. the vessels to plow through ad­ OTS Transport is based in )lvde Smith reports the first voyage of the tanker Cove Eiideavor with an SIU crew was a big Bosun 01 jacent ice, pusliwg the broken ice Lemont, 111., a suburb of Chicago. . The vessel onloaded prude oil In Partama and delivered it to Si James, La. success. . yfl:. . ..Mv i •'y' ^7 '•'f,"' ' |f . '/y.' �••I- e Mi; SBUwiasLOG HUaCHISM House Members Pledge te Pass Ship Bill in '95 Continued from page 2 The representative went on to Also questioning the efforts to say the reason the secretary disregard cargo preference laws wanted the waivers was that the was Rep. Neil Abercrombie (D- Defense Department could ship Hawaii), a member of the House military supplies cheaper on Armed Services Committee and foreign-flag vessels. another longtime supporter of the "I resent someone standing up U.S. merchant marine. there who is defending the United Addressing a standing-room audience, Rep. Neil Abercrombie (D-Hawaii) encourages the MTD executive Attacks Waiver Request States of America and they are board to fight for strong U.S.-fiag maritime legislation. Pictured at far left is MTD President Michael Sacco. Abercrombie told the execu­ willing to take what I consider tive board that the secretary of slave labor," Abercrombie stated. collect an estimated $1(X) million then they ought to be able to shipyards and the U.S.-flag mer­ defense had appeared before the "Slave labor?! Of course, it's annually, he noted, "If we can defend equally the capacity to chant marine," noted Ackerman, House committee to gain ap­ cheaper when you have slave pass a tonnage tax, I want every have a merchant marine ready widiin whose New York district proval to waive cargo preference labor. What choice do they single penny of that matched by and able not only to go to war but is located the U.S. Merchant laws. money com­ to engage in the commercial war Marine Academy at Kings Point. have?" "The y ing out of the that the president himself said we "Finally, we have a chance to The Hawaii Democrat pointed want to get are involved in right now on a tell the thonsands of working men Department out that several of the nations waivers," he of Defense. global basis," Abercrombie and women who serve in the said. "You listed as allies (and therefore con­ maritime trades that they may no "If you stated. know what sidered for transporting goods) have people "The money is there. It's our longer have to fear the loss of waiving is to specifically naming Panama, their jobs." who say that money and our policy." me? Waiving Liberia and Russia—were having they can internal crises of their own. In welcom­ is bye-bye! Rep. Gary Ackerman advised defend the ing the group Rep. Ackerman That means the executive board to keep fight­ Seeks Additional Sources continuation ing Rep. Solomon to south for maritime legislation bye-bye to the Regarding the administra­ of Star Wars despite Florida, fteshinclusion of the MSP in American tion's proposal to fund the MSP and intercontinental ballistic man Rep. Peter maritime industry. I was shock­ through a tonnage tax that would defense research and technology. the Transportation Department's budget. He called 1994 "a pivotal Deutsch (Ded." year for maritime policy. Fla.) stated he "At long last, we have the op­ is committed Rep. Deutsch -— portunity to reverse the terrible to passing legislation this year "to make sure decline of the Reagan/Bush years, when our government we are going to have a maritime tnmed its back on America's industry in this country." fe'" fv MTD Urges Congress to Pass Health Care Reform This Year '•r^i >• :.' •: From labor officials to mem­ surance. Many of the new jobs of health care any longer," Geor­ bers of Congress, the message being created offer little, if any, gine told the gathering. was the same at the Maritime healA care coverage to workers. He stated Aat through collec­ Trades Department (MTD) ex­ Surveys have shown that unless tive bargaining, unions have paid ecutive board meeting last month: action is taken soon, as many as for health care coverage not only Health care reform is needed to one-third of those who now have for their members but also "for aid the working people of the coverage will lose it in 10 years. everybody else that does not have United States. insurance." He talked about states Outlines Principles In presenting the department's like New York that add 26 per­ With several plans being cent resolution to the board, MTD to medical bills to cover President Michael Sacco noted debated before the House and the people who do not have in­ AFL-CIO Secretary- surance. the "resolution confirms our com­ Senate, Treasurer mitment to work with unstop­ "Who pays for it?" he asked. pable energy to secure passage of Thomas "We pay it. So, we're paying for I national health care system—a Donahue people now that do not have reminded the lealth security act for all health insurance." board mem­ Americans." Under the plan offered by the bers what the He pointed out that the White House, employers would enemies of such legislation are trade labor be mandated to provide coverage the same as during the 1936 fight movement for their employees. Other or Social Security as well as the will be fight­ proposals before Congress do not ing for in Robert Georglne 1965 battle for Medicare. go this far. On the enemy list are certain health care ~ business interests, conservatives, legislation. Attacks on Program MTD Vice President William Zenga calls on the federal government "We still stand on our basic the health in­ Robert McGlotten, director of to streamline the procedures for getting permits to dredge New York surance lobby principles; quality care, universal the national labor federation's and other metropolitan hartx)rs. and, of course, coverage and cost containment," legislative department, warned the doctors' Donahue said. "Those are the the executive board that attacks lobby—the bedrock on which a new system are focusing on the employerA M A has to be based." mandate issue. He noted that if He pointed out that the plan employer mandate was removed, (American Medical As­ presently proposed by the Clinton' it could mean "that any kind of sociation)," administration meets the criteria. health care program that will Tom Donahue Sacco said. "It We can support the Clinton plan come about is the very so long as it stays as it is," he will possibly same crowd added. be one that Donahue noted trade unionists which has opposed every major will come aw that has helped working will fight against any proposal after us in )eople and their families in this that calls for the taxation of health terms of taxa­ benefits as a means of paying for century." tion of After listing excuses used by the plan. "We're not going to dis­ employee these groups to try to stop Social cuss the taxation of our benefits," benefits." Security and Medicare, Sacco he said after noting that union Bob McGlotten He pointed stated, "We are not going to let members have given up wage in­ out that the these elite, powerful, rich, creases in order to have those primary issue in all collective bar­ entrenched, selfish interests benefits. gaining agreements reached in block a fair and comprehensive the last eight years has been Pays for Others health care system for all health care. "We haven't been Backing up Donahue's call Americans!" able to put more money into our was Robert Georgine, the presi­ The resolution, which passed dent of the Building and Con­ members' pockets," McGlotten unanimously, noted ap­ struction Trades Department. said. "What we had to do was proximately 39 million "Our collective bargaining compensate to cover for the cost Describing his agenda for the federal mediation and conciliation Americans have no health in- system can't support the weight of health." service to the MTD is John Calhoon Wells, the agency's director. �samuiiKUK 7 Budget Includes Funding Fer U.S. Merchant Fleet Continued from page 2 each of the 10 years. Positive Step MTD President Michae An Amtrak Sunset Limited passengar descriises at a becember Sacco called the inclusion of the hearing the events that led to the derailment of the train after a barge program in the federal budget "a rammed a bridge over Big Bayou Canot near Mobile, Ala. recognition of the need for posi tive means to reverse the dangerous decline of America' merchant shipping capability. "President Clinton and Secretary Pena are to be com­ mended for their recognition o the seriousness of the U.S. fleet' The pilot of the tug which According to Leon present plight and the need for caused the derailment of Katcharian, a National Transpor­ immediate action to avoid, the Maritime Administrator Albert Herberger tells the MTD executive that the Clinton maritime program will "preserve good jobs on Amtrak's ^Mnjcf Limited, failed tation Safety Board (NTSB) calamity that would befall this na­ board American ships." the Coast Guard License exam marine accident investigator, a tion should its maritime posture seven times and was involved in full report on the Amtrak accident Sacco added. gress and the administration and modernization of domestic several other accidents before the will be made public early this be ignored," Pena praised the tenacity o disaster that claimed the lives of summer. Included in the report the maritime industry, specifical agreed to do—even in that con shipyards within the budget: 47 people on the night of Septem­ will be a final conclusion as to the ly naming Sacco and AFL-CIO text, the president said, T want to "Overage, obsolete fleets; en­ make this a priority.' That indi vironmental and safety pressures ber 22. official cause of the derailment President Lane Kirkland, in push cates how important this is." from the Oil Pollution Act of According to The Journal of and recommendations to govern­ ng for legislation that served as 1990 and International Maritime Plan Summarized Commerce, the pilot of the MV ment agencies, companies, trade the model for the administration' Organization fallout; and the in­ Pena outlined the four key Mauvilla was promoted and organizations and industry fonfu- proposal. That bill, H.R. 2151 creased volume of trade." demoted several times before the ture prevention of such disasters. jassed by an overwhelming mar­ parts of the MSP: maintain The admiral stated that the accident on the Big Bayou Canot Based on the findings of a gin in the House of Repre­ modem U.S.-flag merchant fleet, need for a modern merchant provide sealift during nationa near Mobile, Ala. He also had recent NTSB review. Secretary of sentatives in November. marine as well as state-of-the-art emergencies, ensure the U.S. flag three minor accidents within a Transportation Federico Pena will fly on the high seas to shipyards are linked directly to Maritime is 'Priority' three-month period while piloting direct^ the U.S. Coast Guard and other boats. He noted the continued efforts transport international commerce the country's role "as a military Federal Railroad Administration superpower and world leader in Federal investigators report to undertake several initiatives to of the maritime community kept and preserve maritime jobs. international trade. "JTie secretary added that the that the pilot of the Mauvilla be­ minimize the risk of another acci­ the legislation and industry "The American merchant Transportation Departmen came lost in fog and unintention­ dent occurring similar to theSun­ )efore Congress. marine is an important source of budget also included funds to ally entered the Big Bayou Canot, set Limited. The proposal "This industry, sometimes ou for America's armed seapower cover loan guarantees for ship where barge traffic is prohibited. included more stringent licensing of sight with the exception perforces. In addition, it is vital to our The string of barges being towed requirements for operators of laps of those of us who come building, export ship construction economic interests to maintain a got loose and struck a nearby uninspected towing vessels. This From port communities, is ab­ and shipyard updating. critical level of comimercial Pena said, "A healthy bridge, causing a section of the would call for towboat operators solutely critical to our economy maritime industry is a central ele presence in maritime markets." railroad bridge to be knocked 41 to pass simulator tests and written and to our global competitiveness Continuing on the theme of inches out of alignment. The shift exams each time they want to and to bur national security," the ment not only in our defense commercial shipbuilding in the secretary told the gathering. Be readiness, but in our nation's United States, left a bridge girder in the path of upgrade their licenses. MTD President the oncoming train and ultimately The plan would upgrade the cause of the efforts by the competitiveness as well." Sacco pointed out that American caused the Sunset Limited to requirements for radar and maritime unions and industry Supports Secretary workers have been turning out plunge into the muddy bayou navigational equipment on tow- "•ena pointed out the merchant Adding emphasis to the the most technologically ad­ waters. boats. It would look iiito improv­ marine was not overlooked in the secretary's words was the head of vanced naval ships in the world. Factors involved in the derail­ ing the way mishaps and 'Y '95 budget. "This president the Maritime Administration "Shipbuilding labor has the stood up and said to the nation am MarAd), Vice Admiral Albert superior ment of the passenger train, ac­ accidents are reported. skills, the high produc­ cording to federal investigators, Pena's proposal also would the Congress: This is a priority," Herberger (Ret.). tivity and, in short, everything it include a lack of navigational seek new means for checking the lie stated. "And that's why, in a Referring to the MSP, he saic takes to build ships into the 21st tools aboard the vessel, Ae pilot structural integrity of bridges and very difficult budget—^and you it would not only "preserve gpot century," he told the board in in­ mistaking the bridge for a barge strengthening emergency all have heard about the cuts that obs on American ships, it will troducing a resolution dealing on the radar and absence of lights preparedness while enhancing other departments had to take be­ lelp maintain a well-trained crew with shipbuilding. on the bridge or warning signs at the prospects for victims' sur­ cause we all had to stay within >ase available to crew commer­ The resolution, which calls for ludget caps that both die Con- cial vessels, military sealift ves­ an end vival should a crash occur. bayou waters. to unfair subsidies by other sels and Ready Reserve Force nations, seeks to have Congress vessels. The program recognized and the administration adopt a that the U.S.-flag fleet provides policy so that theU.S. will beable essential service and jobs, and to compete internationally for creates a supporting infrastruc­ shipbuilding jobs. It passed unan­ ture paid for by the private sec­ imously. tor." In announcing the national The U.S. Coast Guard has studying the last four to five years results in a series of reports, "But As this countiy redeploys its petition drive, Frank Pecquex, the launched an investigation into the of personal injury accidents this is tentative and won't be for troops from locations around the department's executive possible under-reporting of per­ reported. It has been indicated some time," he added. world to bases in the United secretary-treasurer, asked all sonal injury accidents by tug and that some companies are not Without identifying the com­ States, Herberger noted the unions and port councils barge companies operating ^ong reporting all of such accidents, pany by name, newspaper reports armed forces will need all modes member to set up exhibits and displays in the inland waterways. John Reddick,chief warrant officer state that some companies being of transportation necessary to order to gain as many signatures This investigation follows a and senior investigative officer for investigated have officially move people and materiel quickly. as possible in support of foe U.S.year of heightened concern for the Coast Guard Marine Safety Of­ reported only 2 percent of the in­ That requires airlift and Flag merchant fleet. river safety, especially after the fice in St. Louis, recently told a jury accidents it recorded inter­ sealift," he stated. "In the absence He noted foe MTD already has of timely sealift, the strategic con­ Amtrak derailment near Mobile, reporter for the Seafarers LOG. received several thousand signa­ nally for 1991 through 1993. cept of power projection of heavy tures and hopes to have many Ala., in which 47 people were If companies do not report all brces and globd reach will be more when the petitions are Law Requires Notification killed last September shortly after accidents as required, they could merely hypothetical. The com­ presented to the Clinton adAccordii%to Reddick, the St. a tug-barge struck and moved a Louis office has received data be subject to non-compliance mercial U.S.-fleet is a cost-effec­ ninistration on Maritime bridge. from several companies and penalties and could leave the tive source of auxiliary military Memorial Day in May. Presently, the House Mer­ Coast Guard with a mistaken sealift. In other action taken by foe chant Marine and Fisheries Com­ found indications of low report­ view of waterway operations. 'The message is that executive ing. He noted reporting waterway board, it urged Con­ mittee is considering several bills American ships, American gress to maintain accidents is required by federd foe ban on the whose purpose is to make the in­ The investigation is limited to shipyards and other supporting jxport of Alaskan oil, which has law. land waterwayssafer. These bills, the upper Mississippi River and industries—and American been in place and reaffirmed A Coast Guard official stated its tributaries which begins where seafarers, shipyard workers and which the SIU supports, would since 1973 when Alaska's North require boatmen to possess Coast that significant under-reporting the Mississippi River connects lose who labor in supporting ac­ Slope region was opened for ex­ Guard-issued merchant mariner of accidents could distort the with the Ohio, to St. Paul, Minn., tivities:—remain important to our ploration. The boani also called documents and demand that all agency's accident database and up the Illinois nearly to Chicago national defense today and will in on Congress and foe administra­ tugs and towboats carry naviga­ its perception of how risky the and along the Missouri to Sioux he future." tion to continue foe full funding nation's waterways are. Shipbuilding Addressed City, Iowa. Most of the nation's tional equipment. of the U.S. Merchant Marine Herberger listed Several Academy without changing its Reddick stated that once the major barge lines, plus mapy The scope of the investigation reasons for including fimds for >olicy of not charging students is limited only to personal in­ investigation has been concluded, smaller ones, operate through the oan guarantees for shipbuilding 1 uition. juries. "We are specifically the agency may summarize the St. Louis zone. IttvesUgatiott Continues into Train Deraiiment %X' I# • • -m-, USCG Explores Under-Reporting Of Mississippi Barge Accidents •' T �...i"; ^ v,' ", =r -.• .•-• •. •• •:'•• • • 8 SAB Approves Changes In Recertification Class Size •• =j" •' ^ -•-' 1 ^' "•'. •; " '• • •S- • ••••".•' '::\ • /: --i' ilMi7ffir 1994 SEAFARERS LOG '94 Brings Spate of Runaway Accidents Authorities are investigatin Marika 7 was owned by Atlantic recently for the Marika 7's "ex­ several recent incidents involvin Maritime Enterprises of Greece. cellent" condition. However, an account in the Three changes in the ship matically terminate and there­ runaway-registry vessels. The captain and five officers were January 4 edition of the Montreal ping rules have been approved fore will not need to be Greek, while the other 30 crew­ The U.S. Coast Guard is look newspaper La Presse differs with by the Seafarers Appeals reviewed after the usual six (6) ing into the cause of an acciden members were Filipino. Board. month period. in New Orleans in which a Hon According to published that assessment. The article states The first two measures, Ac duran-owned, Panamanian-fla: reports, the 20-year-old ship car­ that Dutch officials in Rotterdam SAB Action 370 tions 369 and 370, lower the inspected the Marika 7 on The Seafarers Appeals tanker allegedly hit and sank two ried three rubber life rafts, two number of Seafarers who wil Board acting under and pur­ docked grain barges. fiberglass canoes and six survival December 9. According to Reg Lanteigne, director of ship safety participate in the semi-annua suant to the Collective Bargain­ According to newspaper suits. bosun recertification ant ing Agreement between the reports, the 800-foot Eos collidec The Marika 7, built in Japan, for the Canadian Coast Guard, the steward recertification classes Union and the various Con­ with a fleet of moored barges in had taken on 150,000 tons of iron initial report listed the following beginning in 1994. tracted Employers, hereby the Mississippi River last month ore pellets in Quebec on Decem­ as deficient and in need of repairs: A total of six Seafarers wil takes the following action. at Nine Mile Point in New Or­ ber 27 and left for the Nether­ life rafts, life buoys, life jackets, be enrolled in each of the ses­ Whereas, by Action 181 and leans harbor. Two barges loade( lands. But the ship got caught in firefighting equipment, emergen­ sions. Augie Tellez, SIU vice Action 228 were promulgated with a combined 110,000 tons o: a storm with 40-lmot winds and cy planning procedures and president for contracts and col­ to establish training classes for com and wheat sank. At least one seas as high as 35 feet. bullheads. lective bargaining, said the the Recertification of Bosuns other barge apparently sustained The report further states that Officios from the Canadian downsizing was made because and Stewards, consisting of two damage. Coast Guard were quoted as most of the deficient conditions the classes are being restruc­ (2) classes a year. The Eos also was damagec saying that the ship appears to were corrected before the ship left tured. Whereas, by Action 370 this but it was not carrying any oi have sunk quickly and without Rotterdam, according to the "This will allow the students year's Steward Recertification cargo at the time of the accident any advance waming to the crew. newspaper. However, tfiere ap­ to have even more time with the classes have been decreased to On Febmary 9, a Coast Guarc The ensuing search, con­ parently is no known confirma­ instructors and to leam more six (6) members for each class cutter rescued two mariners more ducted from both the air and the tion that the faulty bulkheads that they will be able to take in 1994, terminating on than a day after their vessel—the sea, was hampered by continued were repaired.The ship was one back to the ships," Tellez noted. January 1,1995. Dominican-owned, Bahamian- bad weather. of six owned by the company. The third. Action 371, ex­ registered oil tanker Albioni— Runaway registries long have The Canadian Coast Guard did Therefore, the provisions tends for another six months the promulgated by SAB Action 233 caught fire, exploded and split in not receive any distress reports been known as a vehicle to escape length of time that members can shall be changed for the dura-^ half approximately 75 miles from the ship, other than an emer­ taxes, safety laws and other ship. gency signd from the automatic protective regulations. They are tion of1994. As this Action isfor southeast of Santo Domingo. Members with "A" books one year, this Action will auto­ Twenty-two other crewmem- signd box on Janu^ 1, indicat­ used as a device by shipowners to , can remain aboard a vessel for matically terminate and there­ bers had been rescued earlier, bu ing the vessel's position between pay a nominal fee to an agency 240 days or one round trip, fore will not need to be six more are presumed dead. Newfoundland and the British designated by a non-maritime na­ whichever is longer. Those with reviewed after the usual six (6) TheAlkioni was empty at the Isles. tion seeking to raise revenue and "B" books will continue be able month period. time of the explosion and was Reports in Lloyd's List quote thereby escape from a maritime to stay aboard ship for 180 days headed to Venezuela to load oil. an unidentified Atlantic Maritime nation's safety regulations, pro­ SAB Action 371 or one round trip, whichever is Crewmembers reportedly were Enterprises spokesman as saying cedures and inspections, tax laws The Seafarers Appeals fighting a small fire when the longer. he company had been com­ and higher wages paid to crew­ Action 371 will be in effect Board acting under and pur­ blast occurred. mended by vessel inspectors members. until August when the board suant to the Collective Bargain­ That case also is under inves­ will evaluate the employment ing Agreement between the tigation. Jnion and the various Con­ availability at that time. Meanwhile, the Greek-owned, The Seafarers Appeals tracted Employers, hereby Maltese-flag tanker Cosmas A Board is composed of repre­ takes the following action. was sunk by its owners in late Whereas, by Action 327, Ac­ January in the South China Sea^ sentatives from both the SIU and its contracted companies. tion 331, Action 361 and Action two weeks after a major ship­ The complete text of all three 367 were promulgated to in­ board explosion. The U.S. Coast Guard spections may be done simul­ crease the amount of time Class actions is printed below. The vessel was loaded with recently announced that it will taneously. A" seaman could remain 23,000 metric tons of cmde oil increase substantially its inspec­ SAB Action 369 The switch to ABS perform­ aboard their assigned vessels when the blast took place. The tions of foreign-flag ships. The Seafarers Appeals -or two hundred forty (240) ing the inspections will begin cause still is being investigated, At the same time, U.S.-flag voluntarily, under a program Board acting under and pur­ suant to the Collective Bargain­ days or one (1) round trip as is the extent of environmental vessel inspections will be trans­ aimed at owners of U.S.-flag \yhichever was longer and ferred to the private, nonprofit deep-draft commercial ships ing Agreement between the Class "B" seaman could damage. Ten crewmembers (one Greek American Bureau of Shipping that already are classed by ABS. Union and the various Con­ remain aboard their assigned tracted Employers, hereby vessel for one hundred eighty and nine Indonesians) are (ABS), although the Coast "Only ABS is [handling presumed dead; 24 others were Guard still will oversee the in­ U.S.-flag ship inspections takes the following action. 180) days or one (1) round trip rescued. spections. ABS is a classifica­ formerly done by the Coast Whereas, by Action 181 and whichever was longer and tion society based in New York. Guard] because only ABS Action 228 were promulgated 36 Die as Freighter Sinks Whereas, available employ­ These actions, tentatively meets our requirements," said to establish training classes for ment continues at the same high Earlier in the new year, scheduled to go into effect this a spokesman for the Coast the Recertification of Bosuns 'evel. another ranaway-registry mishap summer, are spurred by the and Stewards, consisting of two Therefore, the provisions cost 36 crewmembers their lives. Maritime Regulatory Reform Guard. (2) classes a year. The freighter Afartfajf 7 cap­ promulgated by SAB Action Whereas, by this Action 369 '27, Action 331, Action 361 and sized and sank on January 1 ap­ Initiative, which began in the The FOC Factor this year's Bosun Recertifica­ Action 367shall continue in full proximately 900 miles off the spring of 1992 and included a Although the Coast Guard is tion classes have been force and effect for another six coast of Newfoundland, ap­ lengthy self-evaluation by the not limiting its inspections of decreased to six (6) members '6) months, effective February parently taking the entire crew to Coast Guard of its goals and foreign-flag ships to flag-ofoperations. In that study, the for each class in 1994, ter­ 5,1994 at which time employ­ their deaths. convenience (FOC) vessels, the Canadian and U.S. authorities, agency concluded that foreignminating January 1, 1995. ment availability will again be dismal safety records of FOC Therefore, the provisions evaluated to determine whether along with a few commercial flag vessels (including many operations apparently were a operating under runaway promulgated by SAB Action 186 or not the provisions specified ships, searched for several days in factor in the agency's decision shall be changed for the dura­ in SAB Action 327, Action 331, hopes of finding survivors, but to registries) which deliver most of to broaden its scrutiny of foreign the United States' imported oil tion of1994. As this Action is for and Action 361 should continue no avail. Only one or two empty have the worst operation and ships. life rafts were recovered. one year, this action will auto­ or be terminated. management. FOC registries long have The Liberian-flag, 900-foot "We're finding more and been known as a vehicle to es­ more ... the flag state and the cape taxes, safety laws and other owner and the class society are protective regulations. They not doing everything they're were dubbed runaway registries A dozen Seafarers last month symbolic acts were intended to to fire workers who are engaged supposed to be doing," said an by American maritime unions in joined in the Teamsters Union's draw attention not only to the in a lawful strike, has been passed official from the Coast Guard's the 1940s because of their use of three-year-old fight against Diamond situation, but also to the by the U.S. House of Repre­ Office of Marine Safety, a device for shipowners to pay a Diamond Walnut Growers-^the need for passage of federal legis­ sentatives, and the Senate is Security and Environmental nominal fee to an agency desig­ California-based company which lation which prohibits the per­ scheduled to take up the measure Protection, according to The nated by a non-maritime nation in 1991 "permanently replaced" manent hiring of scabs. sometime during this session of Journal of Commerce. seeking to raise revenue and roughly 400 union workers after The following Seafarers, led Congress, although there still thereby escape from a maritime contract talks stalled. by SIU President Michael Sacco, remains the threat of a filibuster. nation's safety regulations, pro­ Reducing Downtime The SIU members marched in took part in the rally: Ed Doruth, That threat exists despite the cedures and inspections, tax Shipowners will pay for the Miami with Teamsters and other Peter Funk, Dement Edwards, fact that a majority of senators— inspections by ABS, but that ex­ laws and higher wages paid to trade unionists outside an Kris Hopkins, Chris Caviness, as well as President Clinton—has pense may be offset by less crewmembers. Entemann's Bakery, which has a Scott Mitchell, Richard Pres- voiced approval of the legisla­ downtime for the vessels. That Part of that escape is ac­ contract with Diamond. At the son,.Martin Thurston, David tion, which would relieve the is because ABS already con­ complished through the ease of rally, AFL-CIO President Lane Scott, Richard Fritze, Ray United States of the dubious dis­ ducts private inspections re­ involving several nations in the Kirkland and several other union Marquis and Alan Less. tinction of being the only major quired by insurers and bankers. operation of one vessel, thereby officials intentionally staged acts The Workplace Fairness Act, industrialized nation in the world Under the new guidelines, both of civil disobedience and were ar­ which would close a loophole in that allows striking workers to be the government and private in­ creating red tape and enforce­ ment difficulties for authorities. rested for misdemeanors. The U.S. labor law and make it illegal fired. Coast Guard To Check More Foreign Vessels ''!k-k -'k'--k:r• Seafarers Join Striking Dianwnii Workers . ^ �- 1 ^-rr mm • • •; -ii,- <• •••"iy*- ; " ' •• •'"•;:•. .„> ^ " r . MARCH 1994 SEAFARERS LOB EAFARERS who sail aboard 80 S SlU-contracted Eshing boats endure a wide variety of temperatures and seas to get their jobs done. The SIU fishermen crew the six-man boats, known as draggers, that sail from the port of New Bedford, Mass. The draggers pull nets that run along the bot­ tom of the ocean to catch the groundfish which inhabit these lower depths. Groundfish include yellow tail flounder, cod and haddock. The Seafarers usually fish on the Georges Banks, off the New England coast, but to catch these various types of fish Aey sometimes must use different nets and go into different areas. New Bedford Port Agent Henri Fran­ cois said the fishing boats travel 100 miles or more out to sea and fish for up to 12 days at a time. If they are fishing for more than nine days, they must tie up in port for four days. The vessels then may sail on the fifth day for another expedition. For this group of Seafarers, there is no relief. They sail all four seasons of the year. General maintenance on the fishing vessels is done while in port between trips. During this brief period, basic repairs are done to nets, winches, electronics and radars. Francois noted boats rarely need to stay in port for longer periods of time. "They all work together so that they can be sailing once again on 9 the fifth day," the port agent said. Many of the fishermen are in­ dividuals who have emigrated from Por­ tugal or who are of Portuguese descent. All of the fishermen live in the New Bedford area. "In the summers, most of the fisher­ men take turns and return to Portugal for a brief period of time to visit their families and fnends. This is usually the only break they have each year," Fran­ cois said. Belonging to the SIU provides security and benefits not available to non-union fishermen. Francois noted that along with the many normal benefits, such as pension and welfare plans and grievance procedures, the SIU contract addresses issues that are unique to the fishing industry. For example, a fisherman's pay depends on thecatch and expenses of the boat he works on. At the end of each voyage on an SIU fishing vessel, fisher­ men have a right to inspect the boat's settlement sheet. That document out­ lines the boat's expenses, such as fuel and ice to keep the fish fresh, the weight of the catch and the price it brought. Each crewmember receives a percentage of the proceeds. Francois said that about 90 percent of the non-union fishing boats do not allow the crewmembers to see the settlement sheet. • •• " "M- • ' r 0: MirThe Southern Crusader s\\s tied up In port while crewmembers get ready for the next fishing expedition. 1-: Crewmembers board the Sea Siren, ready to catch yellow tail flounder, cod and haddock. ' •il'" •i: Deckhands Jaime Salgado (left) and Jose Olivara prepare the Crusader's nets before leaving the port for a 12-day voyage. Crusader Captairi Amilcar Esteves unloads boxes of supplies in the galley. .•%:' • 'A •; ' "r/ •A- - Reelina out the nets aboard the Checking the Sea Siren's en- General maintenance on the fishing vessels is done while in port Sea Siren is Deckhand Alfredo gines is Engineer Manuel between trips. Above, Cook Mario da Costa and Mate Jose Jauardo Coimbra Pereira. pull out the Sea Siren's nets to check for needed repairs. -r.oc.; ' M ' "' ' Stocking the Crusader's galley with plenty of bread and soup is Cook Lieinio Esteves. ' •: ' ' '' ^5®;- �.•- 10 SEAFARBRSLOG T. ' MARCH 1994 Seafarers Kick Off 1994 Tuberculosis Testing Program The first two months of the clinic physician will use a sma program is necessary. Seafarers Welfare Plan's efforts to needle to put testing materia The SIU medical department confront whatis becoming a nation called tuberculin, under the skin is moving rapidly to deal with any al health problem—the leemer- of the forearm. The Seafarer must potential threat to the member­ gence of tuberculosis (TB)—have return to the SIU clinic within 4i ship through precautionary gotten off to a good start to 72 hours following the test to measures such as the skin test, Dr. Kennneth Miller, medical have his or her forearm examined early detection and treatment as director for the plan, told the for a reaction. Seafarers may pic well as the collection of data to Seafarers LOG that the new tes up their renewed clinic card at the better analyze any trends or cir­ ing procedures for possible ex time the skin test is read. cumstances relating to Seafarers posure to the TB germ has been If a bump the size of a penci and the disease. smoothly implemented by the eraser or bigger appears on the "Due to our rapid address of SIU clinic system. arm where the tul^rculin was the growing concern over tuber­ "The program is proceeding placed, the test is positive. This culosis, we are heading off any very well," Miller said, means the person may have been potential threat of the disease to preliminary review of results to exposed to the TB germ and may Seafarers," concluded Miller. date reveal no significan require preventive treatment to The TB screening program problems for Seafarers." will remain in effect throughout avoid getting the full disease. Interviews conducted with 1994. Miller noted that the data P*S? Reading the Test ,-":£-;i^i''. •'i 'l members at several ports confirm collected are being put into a The TB skin test and a ches computerized data analysis pro­ Miller's statement. Vf^Vr^tE' • X-ray are given as part of the gram for study. In 1995, the medi­ "The test is nothing much, Chief Pumpman Craig Croft sits still while Nurse Tammy Evans (right) member's annual physical. said QMED Kevin DeSue cal department will examine the places the testing material, tuberculin, under the skin on his forearm. Dr. If a Seafarer tests positive, he data to determine if tuberculosis "When you go in for your physi­ or she should seek advice and treat­ is of significant concern for Susan Vogel looks on after explaining the TB testing procedure to Croft. cal, the doctor puts the testing material under your skin and you ment from a physician who knows Seafarers. come back to have the test read a his or her past medical history anc How TB Spreads few days later. I thitik the testing can determine what is best for that is worth it just to know where you particular individual. If a member TB is a disease spread by stand with TB. Maybe you had no is found to have active TB, then he germs called tubercle bacilli tha idea that you had been exposec or she will not be permitted to ship can float in the air. The germs are AMO Members Back and now treatment is available,' out until the infection is treated. spread if a person infected with added DeSue, who sails from the However, a positive skin test does active tuberculosis of the lungs Split from MEBA not necessarily mean the Seafarer coughs of sneezes into the air. Members of the American Maritime Officers (AMO) last month port of Jacksonville. "My test was negative... I feel las active TB. The TB bacteria are so tiny that overwhelmingly voted to authorize their officials to secede from the "The program will determine they dry out and float on air cur­ National Marine Engineers Beneficial Association (MEBA). secure just knowing that But if my if an individual has been exposec rents for long periods in an The AMO membership indicated they would approve the split if test was positive, I would not be to TB in the past. Based upon this enclosed space. TB germs are not their officials deemed such action necessary in order to ensure job upset because treatment is simple and must be taken to avoid the ftill determination, the individual anc likely to be transmitted through security and to protect the union's independence. Currently, the his or her own doctor will decide personal items associated with in­ AMO is one of six autonomous affiliates of National MEBA. disease," noted the QMED. DEU Jaime Brown, who sails whether or not further treatment fected individuals, such as cloth­ In a release issued by the union, the recent vote authorizing from the port of Houston, thinks is required," stated Miller. ing, bedding, toilet seats, secession was 1,158-42. the program is beneficial for showers, drinking glasses, eating CDC Guidelines Seafarers. "I think the program is Items checked by doctors in­ materials or any other items a per­ really neat in that it helps us out a clude the size of the reaction to son with the clinical disease may lot by letting us know if we have the skin test, age and medical his­ have touched. Most people who breathe in Final Rule Mandates .•/•r •. ever been exposed to the germs. tory of the patient and if the in­ The test itself is not painful at all dividual is part of a high-risk the bacteria do not become in­ Spill Removal Gear and theclinic people take the time group. fected when exposed to TB. Of Vessels in U.S. waters transporting oil as bulk cargo must carry to explain the TB program and The doctors follow a specific those who do, most do not appropriate equipment for preventing or responding to oil spills, testing," he stated. set of guidelines established by develop the active diseas^ but the according to a final rule recently published by the U.S. Coast Guard. he Centers for Disease Control germs may lie dormant in the The rule establishes regulations mandated by the Oil Pollution Act Testing for Seafarers and Prevention (CDC) to deter­ cells lining the lungs where the of 1990. The SIU tuberculosis testing mine whether a person needs to )ody may store them. The body's The required equipment includes absorbent materials, pumps, program, which began on January begin preventive therapy. immune system traps the bacteria emergency towing bridles, deck edge equipment to help prevent 1, is designed to accumulate data in If Ae doctor determines that with special germ fighters. From on-deck spills from going over the side, and appropriate hoses to Older to research effects on Seafarers medication is necessary, an in­ lis point on, a lifelong balance transfer cargo from one tank to another during an emergency. of the now more widespread disease. dividual will be prescribed an an- letween the infection and the In addition, the rule requires that operators have access to a The program requires apainless skin ibiotic known as INH to take luman body's defense against the computer program designed to calculate the vessel's stability in the test at die time of a member's armual once per day for six months. This infection continues. An in- event of damage. 1994 physical to identify if the jreventive treatment takes at least ividual who has dormant TB Seafarer has been exposed to TB. six months to a year to kill all the lacteria in his or her lungs is not The goal of the new program is to tuberculosis germs. Unless the contagious. Only those with ac­ protect members from thedisease by germs are eliminated with the tive IB who remain untreated are New Boxes Zap Pests, testing for possible exposure to TB jroper medication, a person will ^capable of infecting others. germs. 'It is very important to note Keep Produce Fresh continue to have the TB bacteria When members go to their in his or her body. hat this is not a disease that is The U.S. military's food supplier recently finished a year-long respective clinics for dieir annual Miller noted that a person with easily transmitted or rapidly in­ study with controlled-atmosphere containers, and the results arc physical, they will be asked to fill latent infection will be eligible fectious," said Miller. "The skin jromising. out a simple questionnaire (which to ship out with the understanding test might reveal that a person Experiments by the Defense Personnel Support Center yielded a includes such information as age, that he or she is responsible for may have been exposed to some­ chemical-free method of killing insects such as fruit flies and mites place of birth and places of travel, taking the prescribed medications one with TB 10 or 15 years ago, while prolonging the shelf-life of fruit and vegetable cargoes. Ship­ as well as family and personal as directed by the doctor. lut they may never develop die board containers were specially equipped to maintain a prescribed history of tuberculosis) and sub­ Because Seafarers live in close active disease," he added. mixture of gases and temperature; the controlled atmosphere killed mit to a skin test. quarters and deal with the same TB germs arc not transmitted insects in the shipments while slowing the aging process of the food. The only way to tell if a person oeople day in and day out for trough casual contact A person The gases normally included high levels of nitrogen and smaller has been exposed to the germs many months at a time, the SIU must be in close contact for a long amounts of carbon dioxide and oxygen. associated with the disease is medical department determined leriod of time with an infected in­ The atmosphere-control equipment costs about $500 per con­ through this painless skin test. A hat this TB research and control dividual to become affected by the tainer. lerm. Tuberculosis, inactive for J/*1^ many years in the United States, once again is on the rise. The Na­ tional Institute of Allergy and In­ Harsh Winter Weather Plays Havoc fectious Diseases (NIAID), a On North Atlantic Shipping Lanes federal health agency involved in Ice is blocking the most direct shipping route between New York the research and development of and Northern Europe, thanks to more than 15 winter storms that have guidelines for treatment of infec­ ashed across the northeastern United States and eastern Canada. tious diseases, cites various Extending more than 300 miles into the ocean from Newreasons for the resurgence of bundland, ice blocks several points in the shipping lanes, forcing ^B, including the emergence of Vorth Atlantic vessels to sail further south in order to avoid the drug resistant strains of the or- dangers. anisni, increased immigration Maritime officials are calling the outbreak of severe winter to the U.S. of people from weather the worst they have seen in nearly 20 years. Gale force winds countries with a high occur­ with seas as high as 25 feet have been constant since January. Vessels rence of the disease and trans­ are monitoring water temperatures for sudden drops that would This shows a positive reaction to the TB testing material, tuberculin, mission among persons in reveal an iceberg is near. Weather forecasters are predicting a break placed under the skin on the forearm. crowded living environments. ater this month with the arrival of spring. m- .v.;/-./- �'*"/,•• •.[.^:r"r'v'^-?^¥^-'V' ' •• •'- -'''t.-i} •' The zebra mussel Is not particular about what surface It attaches to. The adaptable organism sticks to ships, tugboats and more. Shown above Is the effect of the striped mollusk on a car which was submerged upside down In Lake Erie for a year. / ZEBRA MUSSEL ?••• Costly Spread of Zebra Mussels AfHects Shipping, Other Industries ill: Mt "o-:. • ,. .V.l.,.,J,i m . /•I' ' The shipping industry has tanks are completely pirmped out, Zebra mussels are small (less known for years about the costly said Noel Bassett of the engineer­ than 2 inches in length), but they and widespread problems caused ing department of American reproduce so often th^ their spread This photo Illustrates the stages In growth of the zebra mussel. A ruler by zebra mussels. The tiny, hard- Steamship. "I haven't seen anything in the U.S. has not been curb^ by (In millimeters) Is shown for scale. shelled organisms first arrived in yet that would be considered a sig­ biological factors. Each one can the Great Lakes from Europe's nificant problem, but we're certainly produce tens of thousands of off­ lions of dollars have been spent of strategies are being considered Caspian Sea in 1986 in the ballast aware of the situation and we're spring each year, and the clam-like annually by industries and for controlling zebra mussels: water of a European tanker, and dealing with it. Otherwise, you creatures congregate in clusters as municipalities bordering the heat, other chemical treatments within a few years they had in­ would think they would grow quite great as hunch^ of thousands per Great Lakes in the U.S. and (besides chlorine), filters, coat­ Canada in attempts to control the ings and others." filtrated all of the Lakes. well in the tanks." square meter. Currently, the primary control The mussels, which are non"In terms of the hulls, it's not Among other species, ducks, zebra mussels. Researchers from as far west as California also have method is treatment with edible, use sticky, elastic-like too bad," said Scott Noble of Or- crayfish and fieshwater drum fish joined in the battle—an interna­ chlorine, although this is costly secretions to attach themselves in gulf. "But down the road, we do feed on mussels, but they have had tional conference of engineers, and carries potentially harmful layers to almost any surface, and anticipate a buildup" which may at best a nominal effect on the zebra biologists, company repre­ side effects for fish and wildlife. they do not easily let go. They decrease fuel efficiency. mussel population in the U.S. Other possible treatments in­ have caused numerous difficul­ By contrast, many of the zebra sentatives, federal officials and Growing Problem others concerned with the prob­ clude thermal shock, ultraviolet ties, including disrupting naviga­ mussels' other predators flourish lem took place last year in Toron­ radiation, electrical fields, acous­ tion by causing marker buoys to While the zebra-mussel prob­ in European waters, which partly to, and another is scheduled for tic shock and gamma irradiation. sink, ruining fishing nets and lem persists in shipping circles, it explains why the mussels pose this month in Madison, Wis. grounds, fouling beaches with also is spreading to new ter­ less of a problem overseas. Heading South Sometime this year, the U.S. sharp shells, and blocking water ritories and affecting other in­ In America, the difficulties are If folks around the Great Lakes intake systems of many dustries. For example, during the numerous and wide ranging. For Coast Guard's environmental safety branch is scheduled to at least were getting used to the municipalities, utilities and fac­ flooding in the Midwest last year, example, three years ago, workers present to Congress an extensive fight, it recently has surprised tories. The mollusks also have im­ surging waters on the Mississippi at a power plant near Detroit—as on zebra mussel control people as far south as St Louis and report peded ships by causing increased and Illinois rivers and their well as the facility's customers—got options (including a look at ship­ Louisville, Ky. and as far east as die drag, thereby lowering fuel ef­ tributaries carried and dumped a relatively sm^ sampling of the ping patterns), mandated by the Hudson River in New York. Pub­ ficiency. In addition, they harm na­ substantial amounts of zebra enormity of these problems; Mas­ Nonindigenous Aquatic lished reports recently documented tive mussels and fish by consuming mussel larvae in areas where the sive clusters of zebra mussels aU but Nuisance Prevention and Control the dangerous organism's spread to dangerous mollusks otherwise sealed an intake canal, through large amounts of algae. Act of 1990. That legislation points as far as five miles from the SlU-contracted companies might never have reached. Zebra which the plant's generators nor­ nearest river. directed, among other actions, a which operate vessels in the af­ mussels now also infest areas in mally draw coolant water fiom the of the introduction of In addition, newspaper articles fected areas appear thus far to several states that they were not Raisin River at a rate of mcHO flian a study aquatic nuisance species by ves­ note that zebra mussels threaten million gallons per minute. Sub­ sels entering waters of the U.S., have avoided any critical expected to reach for years. to destroy the rare native mussels Experts agree this is a multi- sequent removal of the mussels fiom problems stemming from the of the Illinois River. Already, the other than the Great Lakes. mussels, thanks in part to preven­ million dollar problem, and one the intake canal and other parts of the National Oceanic and Atmos­ Additionally, a House panel tive actions. Still, their operations biologist who has monitored the plant accounted for more than 50 recently authorized $2 million for pheric Administration reports invasion dubbed it "a major tons of the oiganisms. have been affected. that zebra mussels practically a federal study into ballast water For the past several years, mil"During the winter, the ballast ecological disaster." technologies, in an effort to have eliminated 18 species of na­ )revent the spread of aquatic tive clams in Lake St. Clair. )ests such as the zebra mussel. One government agency es­ The legislation now goes to the timates Aat ongoing studies and Mouse floor.) attempts to eliminate (or at least 'There are a lot of people deal­ contain) zebra mussels from the ing with this issue," said Bob Great L^es and from the newly 'eoples of the U.S. Fish and infested areas will cost billions of Wildlife Service. "A whole range dollars. Zebra Mussel Distribution in the United States Shaded areas denote state with zebra mussel infestation. / The tiny zebra mussels use their sticky secretions to attach themsel­ ves In layers to almost any surface, In this case, a larger shell. - • J:: ••,' • �'• * -r. •'•7^ • '"i"' f M. P- 12 MARCH 1994 SEAFARERS LOG ft-v - ••'<"• ;• W-/ I; - '- 'Learn While You Work D eck department members aboard the LNG Aries work constantly to complete various projects that ultimately improve the look and productivity of the vessel. "Under the direction of Bosun Billie Darley, we not only got a lot done but learned so much each time," recalled AB Peter Funk, who ships out of the port of Jacksonville. "I've sailed for 19 years and have learned many things. Working with Bosun Darley—who has sailed for nearly 40 years—^amazed me. All the knowledge and experience he shared was very rewarding, and we accomplished quite a bit while on the Aries" noted the 1975 Piney Point graduate. Among the projects completed by Darley, Funk and the rest of the deck department include the painting^dchippingofthetolingchainandgra/ngon the bow, chipping and painting of the deck and replacing wires on the crane and the gangway. '$k. '/" -.r; l'::;fv'::--1^- WPP'-'. Getting fresh vegetables out of the refrigerator for use in the salad bar is SA Mike Taraba. ^ ^ ^ Bosun Billie Darley has been sailing for nearly 40 years. "Bosun Darley is an excellent cable splicer. If you are into this sort of thing, which I am, you could say that he has it down to a work of art. His splices look like the ones right out of the big factories," added Funk. The deck department member plans to attend the bosun recertification course at the Lundeberg School in the near future. "Everything I have become and everything I have, I feel I owe the SIU and the education that I have received through sailing and upgrading at the school. Anything I can do for the union or to make myself a better union man, I will do," said Funk. The Aries, like other LNG vessels operated by Energy Transportation Corporation, sails between Indonesia, where the ships load liquified natural gas, and Japan, where it is offloaded. Round trips on the carriers average one per month, '1' • •* Vr Steward/Baker Bob Brown relaxes with a magazine after a long day in the galley. After chipping and painting with Bosun Darley and other deck department members, AB Ralph Neal sneaks a piece of cake in the galley. More than 20 items are prepared for the saiad bar by galley gang members (from left) SA Cindy Winter, SA John Damphier, Chief Cook Aibert Fretta and SA Mike Taraba. rppr^'Ki:. ' ''iP':- Crewmembers aboard the U4G Aries gather in the crew lounge for a union meeting led by Bosun Dariey. Chief Ctook Albert Fretta poses with OS Chad Rodriguez in the rness hall before dinner is served. �MARCH 1994 WliFARERS LOG ii Union Officers and P.R, Members Confer en Wide Range of issues h,, The new year is off to another plan procedures. ^ hey also busy start for Seafarers in the focused on legislative issues Puerto Rico area. Whether aboard which directly affect the member­ tugs, barges, deep-sea vessels or ship, including a bill to rebuild the around the docks, SIU members U.S.-flag fleet. are maintaining active work 'The meetings were very in­ schedules. formative," said Louie Perez, Despite the full work load, bosun for Sea-Land and a 25-year members recently found time to member of the SIU. meet with SIU Executive Vice Bustling Port President Joseph Sacco, SIU Vice SlU-crewed Sea-Land and President-Contracts Augie Tellez PRMMI ships from Jacksonville, and Seafarers Welfare Plan Ad- Fla., Lake Charles, La. and ministrator Nick Marrone. Philadelphia transport commer­ During a two-day period in cial goods to the island, serving as January, the union officials met a lifeline from the mainland. with members working with SeaMeanwhile, Crowley also had Land and Crowley, numerous tug boats in the San Juan and Sancaptains and boat crews, and the turce area assist in docking opera­ crew of the Sea-Land Crusader. tions and also handle other port In each session. Seafarers and functions. Still other tugs are used the union officials discussed to transport fuel barges along the In Puerto Rico, members of the Seafarers and waterfront union officers meet with SIU officials from various sections of the most coast, as well as to Central headquarters. From left are ILA member Jose Lopez, Crane Maintenance Electrician (CME) Rafael Vergara, recent collective bargaining America and the U.S. Virgin Is­ Recertified Bosun Luis Perez, SIU Executive VP Joseph Sacco, CME Robert Tompkins, AB Juan Lopez, SIU Welfare Plan Administrator Nick Marrone, AB Antonio Rodriguez and SIU VP Augie Tellez. agreement and reviewed medical lands. , . -1- • 'K f: •V. ' 'if ' ...f'S • Some of the crew of the Sea-Land Crusader pose for photo with SIU officials in galley. Seafarer R. Candelario (right) and other Crowley SIU members confer with union officials. Holidays Are a Family Affair At the JCLchsonville SIU Hall Seafarers and their families gathered at the Jacksonville hall on December 23 to enjoy good food, fellowship and holiday fun at the aimual Christmas party. Approximately 100 SIU members and their families and friends were served a holiday dinner prepared by a galley gang headed by Chief Cook WiUie Grant. The meal was served buf­ fet-style and consisted of the traditional turkey with giblet gravy, Virginia baked ham with pineapple sauce, London broil, candied yams, macaroni and cheese, rice, string beans, com, hot rolls and assorted desserts. Other steward department %1k !. members who helped in the preparations include Chief Cooks Roual Gotay, Charles Fincher and Abraham Mar­ tinez; SA Almus Allen and DEULydell Grant. Children of all ages were able to provide Santa Claus with an official gift list. BOsun Paul Butterworth dressed the part of the jolly man in red. Joining the Seafarers for the festivities were representatives from other North Florida area labor unions, including the In­ ternational Longshoremen's As­ sociation, Sheet Metal Workers, Operating Engineers (lUOE), Iron Workers and the Electrical Workers. Jacksonville Port Agent Tony McQuay provided the Seafarers LOG with the photos accompanying this article. Going for a second helping from the buffet is Recertified Bosun Frank Costango. QMED Pedro Santiago and his three daughters savor their meals before sampling from the dessert tray. / Ralphine Grant, wife of Chief Cook Elizabeth Butler, pensioner Leon Butler's wife, poses for a photo Willie Grant returns to her table to with VincentMcQuay, son of Jacksonville Port Agent Tony McQuay. enjoy dessert among friends. Relaxing with his wife and two daughters is AB James Porter. • if �"•K • 'ife•>^ '- 'i » .-U. tv- • . 'I;': •• . ^.V ••-; .^'.v ••:•-• -• r- -ll-:.- . ^^v7•• ,% - If SEAFARERSLOG • Vfr . -v.- ft 14 Pena Says DOT Will Work Congress In Effort inrovo Inland Safety include not only crew size but also the hours worked, he added. "Clearly, all inland towing obstructing or damaging an aid to vessels should have someone navigation because the present aboard who is knowledgeable in levels have proven to be too low the operation and maintenance of to justify extensive prosecution. the engineering systems and an Pena said bridges that pose an operator competent to pilot the unreasonable obstruction to vessel through the waters in navigation should be repaired or which it is traveling," he noted. replaced. He referred to a survey Pena acknowledged, "Most that noted between 1980 and 1991 accidents in all modes of 773 tows reported striking bridges. transportation are caiised by The Department of Transpor­ human error." He related Coast tation is implementing those Guard data that nearly three out of proposals that can beltaken every five marine casualties on without rulemaking or l^sla- the inland waterways between tion, he said. Already under 1980 and 1991 were caused by review are such items as the cur­ human error. riculum of maritime radar courses Because of this, he noted the and whether these classes reflect department has implemented its state-of-the-art technology and drug testing policy as well as the operating procedures. Coast Guard's alcohol testing problem as means to lessen the Crew Size Concerns chances of human error. Besides the steps summarized above, the secretary called on the Need for Schools subcommittee to address other is­ Joining Pena at the witness sues of concem. table was Rear Admiral Arthur "We should examine the ade^ Henn, chief of the Coast Guard quacy and effectiveness of our Office of Marine Safety, Security manning and inspection require­ ments and look at whether the and Environmental Protection. During the question and answer laws for all other commercial ves­ session following Pena's sels on inspection and manning remarks, he turned to Henn for a should apply to the inland water­ to Rep. Blanche response way towing indusl^," he said. Such an examination should Lambert's (D-Ark.) concerning Continued from page 3 the need to establish schools or training centers in order to upgrade boatmen. "What we see for the future is a need for ground-schools, a need for simulators," Henn said 'Ten years ago, we couldn't do it; today we can." He pointed out that there are schools, like the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Educa­ tion in Piney Point, Md., that pro­ vide Coast Guard-accredited training with simulators in place. Rep. Blanche Lambert (D-Ark.) in­ quires on the status of available schools and simulators like the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education to train boatmen from around the U.S. Chairman Gerry Studds (DMass.) of the House Merchant Marine and Fisheries Committee questions the reason inland boat­ men are not required to have mer­ chant mariner documents. "Every other segment of the maritime industry is inspected," Studds noted. The subcommittee has before it two bills dealing with inland safety. H.R. 1915, the Inland Documenta­ tion Bill, calls for all boatmen sail­ ing on the inland waterways aboard vessels of more than five gross to hold Coast Gu^-issued merchant mariner documents. The other bill, the Towing Vessel Navigational Safety Act (H.R.3282), would require all in­ land waterway vessels to be equipped with marine charts, navigational publications, com­ pass, radar and fathometer. It also would require boatmen to be profi­ cient in the use of such equipment. Sources indicate that efforts are underway to merge the bills along with Pena's suggestions into one piece of legislation. Review Current Practices In opening the hearing. Rep. Gerry Studds (D-Mass.), chair­ man of the House Merchant Marine and Fisheries Committee, referred to a Coast Guard statistic that revealed there was an average of nearly three accidents per day between 1980 and 1991 involving uninspected towing vessels. He listed four accidents that have drawn headlines since the first of the year involving such vessels: the oil spill off San Juan Seafarers who attended the upgraded his papers. "Why caused by the Morris J. Berman, February 24 federal court hear­ should we have to pay for our another railroad bridge knocked ing to ban fees on U.S. Coast documents?" out of alignment by a barge near Guard-issued merchant mariner Wilmington's Herman Amelia, La., a collision between documents (z-cards) and marine Mauzer, an engine department the tug Edward Bisso and the licenses left the courtroom with member, said, "If they can tax ferry St. John near New Orleans, a unanimous decision: they us, then they can tax people and the sinking of the John J.D. "^should not have to pay the working on trains and planes. near Ashland, Ky. government in order to have This opens the bam door for jobs. others." These members were part of The Seafarers said they back­ ed the union's court fight and a group of more than 25 that their opposition echoed the Seafarers who witnessed the arguments voiced in the union's complete hearing. said the agency has wide discre­ sociated with mariner document­ lawsuit against the fees. AB Joe Gustafson, also Continued from page 3 tionary powers to set fees and that ing and licensing would have to from the port of New York, QMED Richard Buchanan precision," Frulla told the judge. it acted reasonably and within be revised. stated he was proud that the SIU wondered after the hearing if the The judge also asked theCoast "But the Coast Guard owes more government guidelines in cal­ was waging this fight. "I've 29 percent of the Coast Guard to your honor and the merchant culating the charges for services Guard's attorney when the agen­ been with this union for many overhead figure was another "way associated with die issuance of cy had last updated its informa­ mariners" than guesses. years," noted the port of San to milk more money out of us." The Coast Guard case in be­ mariner documents and licenses. tion used in determining the fees. Francisco member. "This is Before the fees were imple­ Regarding the 29 percent Wohlenhaus answered that the another example of how the SIU mented in a final mling by the half of the user fee program was presented by Renee M. Wohlen- overhead charge, Wohlenhaus agency's calculations were based fights for the good of its mem­ Coast Guard, thousands of mer­ haus, an attorney for the U.S. Jus­ said it covers such matters as on 1990 data. "But this is 1994," bership." chant mariners had protested the tice Department, the government "legislative staff, budget staff and said Judge Oberdorfer. Wohlen­ "It's not fair that they have to scheme in comments filed with haus argued that the agency in­ department which is responsible personnel at headquarters." tax the American merchant the agency. for defending all other government Throughout the presentations tended to review its data annually marine to go to work,'' said AB During the period in which agencies when they are sued. by the attorneys for both the SIU but that the final rule setting the WlUiam Soto, who sails from the Coast Guard issued a notice and the Coast Guard, the judge fees had only been issued in 1993 the port of New York. of a proposed mle on fees to be Gov't Says Seamen Benefit frequently interrupted with ques­ and thus it had not begun a review As he spoke, others nodded collected for marine documents process as yet. Wohlenhaus argued that mer­ tions. in approval. and licenses, vigorous protests The judge asked counsel for chant seamen and boatmen are Adding his displeasure over to the plan also were lodged by Judge: Age of Data? the Coast Guard to provide the the Coast Guard ruling was the SIU. the sole beneficiaries of the documenting and licensing prac­ Judge Oberdorfer asked the court with information on David Dorrell, a boatman from However, the Transportation tice. She said other laws and counsel for the SIU what the whether the public would have a the port of Houston. Department agency largely ig­ regulations, such as those setting plaintiffs would seek if the fee- chance for input in the review "Airline pilots don't have to nored the objections raised to boiler pressure, are directed setting process was sent back to process. The Coast Guard's attor­ pay for their licenses," noted the proposal. On April 19,1993, toward safe navigation and ac­ the agency for fixing. Frulla ney wrote in response that the Dorrell, who in the last year has it put the final mle in effect. crue to the public benefit. responed that the entire procedure agency proposed to conduct in made three payments to the At that point, the SIU filed its The Coast Guard's attorney used to calculate the costs as- secret any review of the fees if federal agency when he has lawsuit seeking to ban the fees. there was no change from their current levels. However, if the Coast Guard intended to change the fees, it would allow public input, the agency's attorney wrote. It is estimated by the SIU's attorneys that the ju%e will rule on the case within the next few months. SIU Executive Vice President Joseph Sacco, in dis­ cussions with the Seafarers who attended the hearing, said in a post-hearing evaluation that the union was dedicated to fighting the fee scheme as long as necessary. "Of course, we hope the judge will throw the unfair tax out. But if not, the union will examine other avenues" in which to fight SIU members and the union's exebutive vice president, Joseph SIU members David Dorrell (far left), Joe Gustafson (center left) and for a repeal,of the fees on marine Sacco (third from left of center), discuss the issues,invplved ip the William Soto (far right) gather outside the courthouse in Washington documents and licenses, Sacco SIU lawsuit against the discriminatory seamen's work tax immediately following the hearing. following the hearing on so-called user fees. said. StWs Wmk Tax Case Goes to Court '•'.- .'.1 i. Seafarers Back Suit Against User Fee « �MMCN1994 ll: SEAFARERS LOG Dispatchers' Report for Deep Sea JANUARY 16 — FEBRUARY 15,1994 •TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C |.gt:' 1«.- TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Port New York Philadelphia Baltiirhpre Norfolk Mobile New Oriels Jacksonville 1^ San Francisco 29 Wilmington 24 Seattle Puerto Rico Honolulu Houston St. Louis Piney Point Algonac Totals Port 15 April & May 1994 Membership Meetings Deep Sea, Lakes, inland Waters Piney Point Monday, April 4, May 2 New York Tuesday: April 5, May 3 Philadeli^a Wednesday: April 6, May 4 Baltiniore Thursday: April 7, May 5; Norfolk Thui^y: April 7, May 5 Jjfat^ksonville Thursday: April 7, May 5 Algonac Friday: April 8, May 6 Houston Monday: April 11, May 9 ^ ^vlSfeW-Orieans^;'':/^::^' Tuesday: April 12, May 10 Mobile Wedne^y: Aprtt 13, May 11 SanFrandsc» Thursday: April 14, May 12 Wilmington Monday: April 18, May 16 Seattle Friday: April 22, May 20 San Juan ^ursday: April 7, May 5 St. Louis , Friday: April 15, May 13 >... < ....' •M iili Honolulu Friday: April 15, May 13 DulutU Wednesday: April 13, May 11 Jfci^cy City Wednesday: April 20, May 18 New Bedford Tuesday: April 19, May 17 - '-''i .. • , ' . - Each port's meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. Personals JACK MILLS Any members who sailed with or knew Jack Mills, please contact Hal Bishop, Rte. 2, Box 448, Drumcliff Road, Hollywood, MD 20636, or phone (301) 373-5401. Mills was bom in Kansas City, Mo. and attended Central Missouri State Teacher's College (1939-42) in Warrensburg, Mo. CHARLES COLSTON Any members who sailed with Chief Cook Charles "Big Charlie" Colston aboard the Water­ man Steamship vessel, the Green Valley, in November 1990, pleasecontact Patricia Colston at 1435 Euterpe St., New Orleans, LA 70130, or phone (504) 581-7821. •C.-: GEORGE WASHINGTON MANNING Please contact your old shipmate, Sidney Gamer, at 518 N. Lakewood Ave., Baltimore, MD 21205-2634, or phone (410) 563-8356. GEORGE WILLIAM LUKE Please contact your son, Adam Tammaro, at 9901 Tailspin Lane, Apt. B, Essex, MD 21220. Notice Totals All 1,026 1378 437 122 71 423 471 821 209 Departments 551 * 'Total Registered" means the number of men who actually registered for shipping at the port last month. ** "Registered on the Beach" means the total number of men registered at the port at the end of last month. A total of 1,087 jobs were shipped on SlU-contracted deep sea vessels. Of the 1,087 jobs shipped, 423jobs or about 39 percent were taken by "A" seniority members. The rest were filled by "B"and "C seniority people. From January16 to February 15,1994, a total of 122 trip reUef jobs were shipped. Since the trip relief program began on April 1,1982, a total of 20,373 jobs have been shipped. j.r-.i:i^:r:', . ,• . . .• p......;', ^ j| ..V PORT ARTHUR, TEXAS INLAND MEMBERSHIP MEETING ON MARCH 9 A general informational Seafarers inland mem­ bership meeting will be held on Wednesday, March 9,1994 at 2:00 p.m. It will take place at the Ramada Inn on Highway 87 in Port Arthur. Contact the Houston SIU hall for further infor­ mation. • • •• /i-'f'.'f-,,* -'o' �fe.'V'-' MA6CH1994 16 SCAFAREI^LOG f rr- •: •i:'- Dispatchers' Report for Great Lakes ^farers International Union Directory JANUARY 16 — FEBRUARY 15,1994 CI^-Company/Lakes L—Lakes NP—Non Priority Mkhaef Sacco Piresident Secrctaiy-Tteasurer Joseph Sacco Executive Vice Resident AugustinTenez Vice Resident Collective Bargaining George McCartney -oast Vice Resident West Co; Roy A. '*80011" Mercer Vice Resident Government Services JackCafTey Vice Resident Atlantic Coast Byron Kelley Vice Resident Lakes and Inland Waters DeanCoraey Vice Resident Gulf Coast fe/v ,rr- / t HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr. Algonac, MI 48001 (313) 794-4988 BALTIMORE 1216 E. Baltimore St. Baltimore, MD 21202 (410)327-4900 DULUTH 705 Medical Arts Building Duluth,MN 55802 (218)722-4110 HONOLULU 606KalihiSt. Honolulu, HI 96819 (808)845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St. Houston, TX 77002 (713)659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 3315 Liberty St. Jacksonville, FL 32206 (904) 353-0987 JERSEY CITY 99 Montgomery St Jersey City, NJ 07302 (201)435-9424 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy. Mobile, AL 36605 (205)478-0916 I NEWBEDFORD ;6v 48 Union St. New Bedford, MA 02740 (508)997-5404 NEW ORLEANS 630 Jackson AVe. New Orleans, LA 70130 (504) 529-7546 NEW YORK 675 Fourth Ave. Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718)499-6600 NORFOLK 115 Third St. Norfolk, VA 23510 (804)622-1892 PHILADELPHIA "yand ^ d'it Philadelphia,PA 19148 (215)336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75 Rney Point, MD 20674 (301)994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 2 West Dixie Highway Dania,FL 33iD04 (305)921-5661 SAN FRANCISCO 350 Fremont SL San Francisco, CA 94105 (415)543-5855 Government Services Division (415) 861-3400 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave. Slop 161/^ Santurce, PR 00907 (809)721-4033 SEATTLE 2505 First Ave. Seattie,WA 98121 (206)441-1960 ST. LOUIS 4581 Gravois Ave. SL Louis, MO 63116 (314)752-6500 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave. Wilmington, CA 90744 (310)549-4000 •TOTAL REGISTERED AUGroups Class CL OassL Class NP TOTAL SHIPPED AllGroups Class CL Class L Class NP ••REGISTERED ON BEACH AUGroups Class CL Class L Class NP DECK DEPARTMENT Port 0 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 0 0 siiwARD DEPARTMENT 0 0 ENTRY DEPARTMENT Port Algonac Port Algonac 0 0 Totals All Departments 0 52 6 0 0 0 0 107 * "Total Registered" means the number of men who actually registered for shipping at the port last month. ** "Registered on the Beach" means the total number of men registered at the port at the end of last month. 22 Dispatchers' Report for Inland Waters JANUARY 16 — FEBRUARY 15,1994 TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C •TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B OassC Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast Q 1 Lakes & Inland Wis West Coast Totals Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast Lakes & Inland Wateiiii West Coast Totals Region Atlantic ^oas Gulf Coast Lakes & Inland Waters 11 West Coast Totals 0 . 0 1 3 30 ••REGISTERED ON BEACH AllGroups Class A Class B Class C DECK DEPARTMENT 3 0 0 1 4 66 0 v.o; 14 : 0 22 36 74 0 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 4 0 0 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 1 2 1 5 1 =1S 0 1 6 0 5 11 0 % 0 0 0 0 3 4 2 18 0 28 149 10 131 48 80 Totals All Departments 46 * "Total Registered" means the number of men who actually registered for shipping at the port last month. ** "Registered on the Beach" means the total number of men registered at the port at the end of last month. LOG-A-RHYTHM LOG-A-RHYTHM The Ship Alexander Kane Cushman by Yvette Yvonne Hopkins-Vazquez by Michael J. Cushman Watching and waiting praying to the sea vanish the ship that was so dear tome I have cried a hundred tears or more tears of sorrow praying to the sea the ship vanished so far from me I will never ever see this ship of mine it sunk in California time I will always save a tear for that ship which was so dear knowing now there will be no more watching waiting praying by the shore. After nine months of construction the vessel Alexander Kane Cushman was ready to be launched with many hopes and dreams that this vessel will always sail calm seas, yet when stormy sail brave and strong to the dawn of a clear new day. As this vessel sets to the sea, the sea of life, it's my wish to you that each voyage be filled with happiness and joy and each adventure profitable. Michael J. Cushman has been sailing since 1980. A previous poem, "Something I Want to Say," was published in the July 1993 Seafarers LOG. This selec­ tion, frpm a book of poems by Brother Cushman, was written for his son, Alexander Kane Cushman. This poem was written November 17, 1993 by Yvette Yvonne Hopkins-Vazquez in memory of her father, Juan Hopkins, a member of the SIU for 37 years who died recently. He had retired in 1979. /' ..• I , �•V.v'' ^ -..Vif,,,';: l-.v:',;- ^ •; ,.• , ^ MARCH 1994 SEAFARERS LOG 17 .Jim"!-.'.-!. To Our New Pensioners .. Thanks for a Job Well Done Each month in the Sectfarers LOG, the names ofSIU members who recently have become pensioners appear with a brief biographical sketch. These men and women have served the maritime industry well, and the SIU and all their union brothers and sisters wish them happiness and health in the days ahead. A member who graduated from he union's top training pro­ gram in the deck department at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship is among the seven mariners who are retiring this month as announced by the Seafarers Welfare Plan. Brother Willonghby Byrd suc­ cessfully completed the bosun recertification program in 1985. A total of six members signing off from their seagoing careers sailed in the deep sea division while one member sailed aboard Great Lakes vessels. Foin Seafarers who are begin­ ning their retirements served in the U.S. armed forces: two served in the Coak Guard while one each served in the Army and Navy. Brief biographical sketches of Brother Byrd as well as the others follow. DEEP SEA JOHN AVERSA, 65, joined the Seafarers in 1965 in his native New York. He sailed in the deck department. Brother Aversa upgraded at the Lundeberg School frequently. He served in the U.S. Army from 1946 to 1949. Brother Aversa retired to Grosse Point Woods, Mich. ELBERT JOSE BLACK­ SANCHEZ, 61, joined the BURN, 67, joined the SIU in 1956 in his native SIU in 1961 Tampa, Fla. in the port of In 1981, he San Francis­ co. A native upgraded to QMED at the of California, he sailed in the steward depart­ Lundeberg School. Brother ment. Brother Blackburn served in Sanchez calls Gadsden, Ala. home. the U.S. Coast Guard from 1944 to 1946. He calls San Francisco home. VICTOR SANTOS, 61, joined the union in 1960 WH.in the port of LOUGHBY New York. BYRD, 69, Bom in Puer­ joined the to Rico, he union in 1947 last sailed as in the port of an FOWT. Brother Santos retired Baltimore. to Ponce, Puerto Rico. Bom in Richton, Miss., he successfully completed the bosun recertification course at Piney Point in 1985. Brother Byrd served in the U.S. Navy from 1943 to 1944. He resides in Mobile, Ala. CHRISTOPHER ELLIOTT, 66, joined the Seafarers in 1965 in the port of New York. Bom in Canada, he last sailed as an FOWT. Brother EUiott retired to New York. GREAT LAKES CARL HAR­ DEE, 65, joined the Seafarers in 1979 in the port of Algonac, Mich. A South Carolina native. he sailed in the deck departmort. Brother Hardee served in the U.S. Coast Guard fiom 1946 to 1966. He resides in Sturgeon Bay, Wis. Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The constitution of the SIU Atlan­ tic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership's money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the secretarytreasure, A yearly finance commit­ tee of rank-and-file members, elected by the membership, each year examines the finances of the union and reports fully their find­ ings and recommendations. Mem­ bers of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recom­ mendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District are administered in accordance with the provisions of various thist fund agreements. All these agree­ ments specify that the trustees in charge of these funds shall equally consist of union and management representatives and their alter­ nates. All expenditures and disbur­ sements of trust funds are made only upon approval by a majority of the trustees. All trust fund finan­ cial records are available at the headquarters of the various trust funds. SHIPPING RIGHTS. A member's shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively by contracts ^tween the union and the employers. Members should get to Imow their shipping rights. Copies of these contracts are )osted and available in all union lalls. If members believe there have been violations of their ship­ ping or seniority rights as con­ tained in the contracts between the union and the employers, they should notify the Seafarers Ap­ peals Board by certified mail, return receipt requested. The proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times,either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers Ap­ peals Board. CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU contracts are available in all SIU halls. These contracts specify the wages and conditions under which an SIU member works and lives aboard a ship or boat. Members should know their contract rights, as well as their obligations, such as filing forovertime (OT) on theprqrer sheets and in the proper manner. If, at any time, a member believes that an SIU patrolman or other union official fails to protect their contractual rights properly, he or she should contact the nearest SIU port agent. EDITORIAL POLICY — THE SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any ar­ ticle serving the political purposes of any individual in the union, of­ ficer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmfu to the union or its collective membership. This estab­ lished policy has been reaffirmed by membership action at the Sep­ tember 1960 meetings in all conports. The stitutional responsibility for Seafarers LOG policy is vested in an editorial board which consists of the ex­ ecutive board of the union. The executive board may delegate, from among its ranks, one in­ dividual to cany out this respon­ sibility. PAYMENT OF MONIES. No monies are to be paid to anyone in any official capacity in the SIU un­ less an official union receipt is given for same. Under no circumstances should any member pay any money for any reason unless he is given such receipt. In the event anyone attempts to require any such payment be m^e without supplying a receipt, or if a member is required to make a pay­ ment and is given an official receipt, but feels that he or she should not have been required to make such payment, this should immediately be reported to union headquarters. CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS AND OBLIGA­ TIONS. Copies of the SIU con­ stitution are available in all union halls. All members should obtain copies of this constitution so as to familiarize themselves with its con­ tents. Any time a member feels any other member or officer is attempt­ ing to deprive him or ho- of any constitutional right or obligation by any methods, such as dealing with charges, trials, etc., as well as all other details, the memb^ so affected should immediately notify head­ quarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All mem­ bers are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Consequently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION — SPAD. SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and pur­ poses including, but not limited to, furthering the political, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and fur­ thering of the American merchant marine with improved employ­ ment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connec­ tion with such objects, SPAD sup­ ports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntaiy. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job dis­ crimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a con­ dition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers Inter­ national Union or SPAD by cer­ tified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect and fur­ ther his or her econom ic, political and social interests, and American trade union concepts. If at any time a member feels that any of the above rights have been violated, or that he or she has been denied the constitutional right of access to union records or information, the member should immediately notify SIU President Michael Sacco at headquarters by certified mail, return receipt re­ quested. The address is: Michael Sacco, President, Seafarers International Union 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746. -'•'i , • r'l •••: -;r ^ I' • " ' .- S- • • •••• r- �f,r 18 MARCH 1994 SEAFJUtBISlM toPiney Point The nation's capital has the the grounds is the Paul Hall Maryland statehouse; Farthing's Library and Maritime Museum. Ordinary, a reconstructed inn Jefferson, Washington and Lin­ The library contains more than with outbuildings; and Old coln memorials, each in its own 17,000 volumes on maritime and Trinity Episcopal Church, built unique surroundings. The Jeffer­ labor history, while the museum around 1829 with bricks from the son memorial has places to rest features a collection of ship original statehouse. During the and share a picnic lunch under tlie models, historical nautical instru­ summer months familieis can shade of the cherry blossoms. wander the grounds and ex­ Paddle boats also can be rented by ments and union memorabilia. In between the marina and perience the music, games, food the hour and is a fun way to get a library is the historic boat shed. and native dress of the first set­ look at life in Washington. The Capitol, White House and Within its walls are a collection of tlers. Located at Point Lookout Supreme Court all offer daily several varieties of watercraft that have sailed the Chesapeake Bay State Park are the remains of Fort tours. A favorite for many region, including a bugeye and a Lincoln, a prisoner of war camp families is a tour of the FBI head­ for Confederate soldiers during quarters as well as a visit to the skipjack. the Civil War. Local legend has it United States Treasury's printing Southern Maryland Sites that the site is inhabited by ghosts. site, where one can actually Many special events take watch the nation's paper currency Piney Point is located in St. Mary's County—not far from all place in St. Mary's County during being made. llie Smithsonian Institution the sights of Washington, D.C., the summer months including Northern Virginia, Baltimore and country fairs, the Governor's Cup holds hundreds of exhibits (all Annapolis, Md. And just outside Yacht Race and the annual joust­ free) and provides hours of fun for the school are plenty of other ing tournament. the entire family. Among the sights to keep an entire family In nearby Charles County, Smithsonian museums are the entertained—seafood festivals, families can enjoy pleasant rides Museum of Natural History, art exhibitions, antique and craft in the sunshine along rolling Museum of American History shows, country auctions, concerts fields of tobacco that surround and the National Air and Space and theater productions—as well picturesque towns. Perhaps one Museum. The Museum of as acres of unspoiled parkland of Charles County's more notable American History is known as the and many historic landmarks. residents was Dr. Samuel A. "nation's attic" because every St. Mary's County was the Mudd, the country doctor who ex­ thing is there—from Fonzie's first proprietary colony in amined John Wilkes Booth's leather jacket and Dorothy's ruby America, the first colony to prac­ fractured leg following his assas­ slippers to the first cars and fird tice religious toleration, the first sination of President Abraham engines and the First Ladies' colony to have peaceful relations Lincoln. Mudd's house, listed on gowns. One of the best of its kind is the with the native Indians, the first the National Register of Historic Maryland capital and the first Places is open for tours. Washington National Zoo. place a request for the women's Another Charles County Hundreds of rare animals live in right to vote was recorded. With landmark is Smallwood State natural habitat compounds rather all of these "firsts" there is plenty Park, the former plantation of than cages. A visit to "Monkey Tired of the hustle and bustle magazines and snacks as well as of city streets, jam packed shop­ SIU t-shirts, sweatshirt, hats and ping malls and stuffy community other souvenirs. This peaceful setting provides parks but dread spending your lazy days of summer vacation at the opportunity for both water a crowded beach resort or camp­ and land based expeditions. The ing ground? Then this year turn center has a marina where your sights to Piney Point, Md., vacationers can take a boat out for home of the Paul Hall Center for the day to sail around the region Maritime Training and Educa­ or look for a good fishing spot. With 400 miles of waterline sur­ tion. If your idea of a dream vaca­ rounding St. Mary's County, tion is tranquility, rest and relaxa­ waterbome activities are abun­ tion or enjoying the simplistic dant. At the center are a picnic area pleasures of rural life, then a Paul hall Center retreat is in your fu­ with grills and tables, outdoor tennis and basketball courts, an ture. Ideally situated on the banks of the St. George's Creek, all the ffili-; ingredients for a fun-filled vaca­ tion can be found on the grounds or within driving distance of the center. Entertaining day trips throughout historic southern Maryland and the Washington D.C. metropolitan area can fill time between fishing trips or ten­ nis matches right on the center's facilities. Ideal Facilities Housing the largest training facility for deep sea merchant seafarers and inland waterways boatmen in the United States, the Paul Hall Center is composed of a number of administrative and educational buildings as well as a Olympic-size swimming pool to see only minutes from the cenlibrary and maritime museum and equipped with both a diving ter. a six-story training and recreation board and a lifeguard, a state-ofNearby is Sotterley Mansion, center on more than 60 acres of the-art health spa (Aat includes an 18th century working plantawaterfront property. A number of Nautilus, free weights and a tion overlooking the Patuxent these rooms in the training and u ni v^sa^,gyJ^J_a._saJma^-and-'^Uve^ of the original buildrecreation center are set aside steafflfoom) »m) and pie plenty of space ings stillstand and are open to the during the summer months for for peaceful walks or jogs on the public. vacationing SIU members and beautifully landscaped grounds. Also on the Patuxent River, is th6ir families. the Naval Air Test and Evaluation Each room contains two ConvlenientHistory Museum, the nation's only double beds, color TV, bureaus, One does not have to venture museum dedicated to the testing desks and a table'with chairs. outside the gates to get their first and evaluation of naval aircraft. Downstairs is the Sea Chest, dose of history. The marina ser-• In historic St. Mary's City, which sells personal items, ves as the home of the restored families can travel back in time to Manitou, the last pleasure vessel visit the place where vessels from owned by President John F. Ken­ England first landed in 1634. Ex­ nedy. The vessel was restored to hibits located on 800 acres of un­ its current excellent Condition in spoiled tidewater landscape 1990 by SIU pensioners. Across include a replica of the first I William Smallwood, a Maryland patriot leader during the Revolutionary War. Besides the restored house Smallwood State Park offers a marina for boat launching, a picnic area and a nature trail. On several occasions throughout the summer months there "are craft fairs, military exhibitions and other special events. Big City Fun If you crave more than the southem Maryland way of life during your stay and would like to venture into the metropolitan area of Washington D.C., there are many more sights following a mere two hour drive from the Paul Hall Center. Island" and the rain forest at the zoo are fim and educational. Late last year a baby elephant was bom at the National Zoo and is currently living with its mother in the elephant area. There are many more sights to behold in Annapolis, Md., Alexandria, Va. and other metropolitan cities. It will take more than a day—or even a weekend—to see some of the more famous landmarks or visit other significant attractions in the area. From the peace and solitude of Piney Point and all its attractions, to the nation's capitol and surrounding areas, your time at the Paul Hall Center will be a memorable one. ^ SEAFARERS TRAINING & RECREATION CENTER Vacation Reservation Information Name: Social Security number: Book number: Address: Telephone number: Number in party / ages of chiidren, if applicabie: _ Datoofanlval: Istcholce; ,r 2rKichoice: 3rdchoice: stay is limited to two weeks. Dat^ of departure: Send this completedapplication to the Seafarers Training & Recreation Center, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674. J ! \ v.; �?S!l^8%«n( ',./•-^€• • ..sVis.Vv'-v;^;,«--e:;5 'S: mUICH1994 SEMFMERSiM ves. Crew observed one minute silence in memory of departed brothers and sisters. LNG VIRGO (Energy Transporta­ tion), January 16—Chairman S. Brooks, Secretary Oswald board minutes as posslbte. On occasion, b^usa of spne Stoiher, Educational Director Bruce ^non. Chairman reported limitations, some will be omitted. smooth sailing. Educational direc­ SMps minutes tirst are reviewed by the union's contract deparhnent tor urged members to take ad­ Those Issues requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the vantage of various upgrading courses at the Lundeberg School. union upon receipt of the ships minutes. The minutes are tim Treasurer announced $70 in ship's forwarded to the S^krers LOG for publication. fund. No beefs or dispijted OT reported. Chairman stated "Scandal CLEVELANDiSealift, Inc.), Seligman, Deck Delegate Brian at Sea" videotape viewed at meet­ January 9—Chairman David Fountain, Engine Delegate A. ing and created much interest by all Garoutte, Secretary M. Vinca, Bruno. Chairman announced crewmembers and officers. Ch^Educational Director E. Hawkins, documentary on foreign-flag ves­ man advised members to read Deck Delegate Paul Cadran, En­ sels viewed by entire crew. He president's report in Seafarers gine Delegate Dion Papas, thanked deck department for job LOG. He extended thanks to crew Steward Delegate Nina Forsman. well done. Educational director en­ for maintaining good relationships Chairman thanked crewmembers couraged members to upgrade at during entire tour and reminded for job well done. Educational Piney Point. No beefs or disputed those signing off to clean for next director urged members to upgrade OT reported. Crew noted TV recep­ member signing on. Chairman skills at Lundeberg School as soon tion very poor and requested new noted "an SlU ship is a clean ship.' as possible. No beefs or disputed antenna. Crew gave hearty vote of Crew gave special thanks to OT reported. Chairman asked crew thanks to chief cook and steward Seafarers LOG for videotape and to respect privacy of others by not department for excellent meals. quality newspaper. slamming doors. Crew extended Next port: Charleston, S.C. OVERSEAS ARCTIC (Maritime special vote of thanks to steward ITB PHILADELPHIA (Sheridan Overseas), January 30—Chairman department for barbecue and good Transportation), January 30— Jerome Williams, Secretary H. food service. Next port: Guam. Chairman Vagn Teddy Nielsen, Davis, Educational Director T. COVE ENDEAVOR (Cove Ship­ Secretary M.W. Hite, Deck Hill, Deck Delegate R. Castro, En­ ping), January 16—Chairman C. Delegate Joseph Mieluchowski. gine Delegate Gary Danos. Chair­ Smith, Secretary Thomas Wyho, Chairman announced ship to be man reported new TV received for Educational Director Mark Gran- sprayed for bugs in next port. No crew lounge. He reminded crew­ dahl. Deck Delegate T. Troupe. bwfs or disputed OT reported. members ship paying off in New Chairman noted diat this is the first Orleans and thanked deck depart­ LNG ARIES(Energy Transporta­ SlU crew aboard newly contracted ment for outstanding work. tion), January 23—Chairman Ulus vessel. He announced ship will Secretary asked captain to install load in Panama and discharge in Veach, Secretaiy Doyle Cornelius, soft drink machine in lounge. He St. James, La. Educational director Educational Director John Orr, reported new buffer for decks will advised members to upgrade skills be received next trip and advised Deck Delegate Louis Sorito Jr,, SA. Paul Hall Center. No beefs or dis­ Engine Delegate Dasril Panko, crewmembers to maintain sanitary puted OT reported. Chairman read conditions aboard ship. Education­ Steward Delegate Udjang amendment to contract sent to ship Nurdjaja. Chairman announced al director urged members to by Seattle hall. He encouraged upgrade skills at Lundeberg "Scandal at Sea" video received members to view film about School. He reminded everyone that and available for crewmembers to foreign-flag vessels sent by union. dependents also may stay at Piney watch. He thanked crewmemebers Recertified Steward Wybo ex­ Point when member is upgrading. tended wishes for happy retirement for job well done and reminded them to bring shipping card to ves­ No beefs or disputed OT report^. to Romeo Lupinacci and thanked Chairman announced new him for his help while upgrading at sel. Secretaiy advised members to Seafarers LOGs available. Crew ex­ pick up clean linen for next crewPiney Point. Chairman passed out tended special vote of thanks to gal­ member. He thanked steward assis­ ley gang for outstanding job in repair list. Next port: Chiriqui tants for jobs well done and asked Grande, Panama. aration of excellent meals, crewmembers to keep mess room ext port: Panama. COI^E LIBERTY (Cove Ship­ clean at night. Educational director ping), January 30-^hairman OVERSEAS BOSTON advised members to upgrade at Terry Cowans, Secretary L. Pal­ (Maritime Overseas), January 30— Lundeberg School and take ad­ mer, Educational Director Floyd Chairman S. Garay, Secretary W. vantage of new college courses Acord. Educational director urged Bryley, Education^ Director S. being offered. Treasurer reported members to use caution when walk­ $344 in ship's fund. No beefs or Wilkerson, Steward Delegate ing on icy deck surfaces. Deck James Boss. Chairman noted disputed OT reported. Crew stated delegate reported disputed OT. No "Scandal at Sea" video received Seafarers LOGs received. Crew en­ from headquarters. Educational beefs or disputed OT reported by joyed pool parties and extended director encouraged members to engine or steward delegate. Crew special vote of thanks to SA Bill upgrade skills at Piney Point. No stated mail slow getting to ship. Smaley for keeping mess room beefs or disputed OT reported. GOLDEN MONARCH (Apex clean. Next port: Nagoya, Japan. Crew asked contracts department Marine), January 30—Chairman to clarify reimbursement of medi­ Charles Parman, Secretary Perco expenses. Crew extended nell Cook. Chairman noted captain LNG CAPRICORN(Energy thanks to galley gang for cleaning Transportation), January 16— extended thanks to entire crew for after ship layup and for great ob well done. He advised crew ves­ Chairman C. Kahl, Secretaiy R. meals. Crew listed dryers need new Frazier, Educational Director sel is expected to lay up in Korea. lint screens. Chairman announced David Dinan, Deck Delegate Secretaiy thanked crewmembers two new VCRs received. ibr keeping ship in good shape. He Thomas Harding, Engine PATRIOT(Vulcan Carriers), reminded members to donate to Delegate R. Rice, Steward January 18—Chairman R. Gibbs, SPAD. Educational director ad­ Delegate Glen Williams. Chair­ Deck Delegate G. Thompson, En­ vised crewmembers to upgrade man discussed proper conduct of gine Delegate William Harris, skills at Lundeberg School. Deck crew while in port. Educational Steward Delegate Daniel Payne. and engine delegates reported dis­ director listed reasons why mem­ Chairman thanked crew for fine puted OT. No beefs or disputed OT bers should upgrade skills at Paul work in port. Educational director reported by steward delegate. Crew Hall Center. No beefs or disputed urged members to upgrade at Paul reported "Scandal at Sea" video OT reported. Engine delegate Hall Center. Treasurer reported viewed by entire crew. Crew re­ thanked galley gang and Chief $600 in ship's fund. No beefs or quested microwave oven and gave Cook Williams for fine job. Crew disputed OT reported. Crew dis­ vote of thanks to galley gang for asked contracts department to look cussed keeping milk supply frozen ;ood meals. Next port: Korea. into holiday pay for crewmembers to avoid spoiling. Crew not^ soap GREEN ISLAND (V^aterman or days worked last tour. Bosun and toilet paper need to be distributed Steamship Co.), January 9—Chair­ asked crewmembers to work around ship equally. Crew reported man E. Grantham, Secretary J. together as a whole. He noted first mail not being received. Crew ex­ leid. Educational Director D. Intended special vote of thanks to oad ever taken to Korea by LNG ; ;ram. Chairman reported smooth Chief Cook Payne for excellent galCapricorn and gave hearty thanks sailing and advised crewmembers ey skills and arranging special to entire crew for successful dis­ of estimated arrival in Newport charge of cargo. Captain F.L. Phan- Christmas party for crewmembers. ^ews, Va. and New Orleans, ^ext port La Vera, France. cenek also thanked crewmembers ^ucational director announced or job well done in Korea. He an­ new books available for crew. SEA-LAND CONSUMER (Seanounced ship to be gas-free and in Treasurer reported $230 in movie Land Service), January 16—Chair­ shipyard from April 25 through : imd. No beefs or disputed OT man William Mortier, Secretary Slay 26. He advised crewmembers reported. Crew discussed having S. Ortiz, Educational Director to keep dead lights closed at night. slop chest available on regular Cbristopber Earbart. Chairman Chairman stated smoking on bridge thanked crewmembers for job well jasis and asked contracts depart­ is now okay but only near starment for clarification on use of done in shipyard. Educational direc­ H>ard exit with door cracked so telex by crewmembers. tor urged members to upgrade at smoke will drift outside and not 'iney Point and watch educational TB GROTON (Sheridan remain in wheel house. He advised movies available aboard ship. Transportation), January 9—Chair­ smokers to clean up after themselTreasurer reported $1,1SO in ship's man ^ Paradise, Secretary R. fund and aimounced movies to be purchased in Long Beach, Calif. Deck :k delegate reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by engine or steward delegates. Crew requested coffee machine in crew lounge and gave vote of thanks to steward depart­ ment for job well done. SEA-LAND DEFENDER (SeaLand Service), January 23—Chair­ man Robert Wagner, Secret^ John Alamar, Educational Direc­ tor Balic Bazidar, Engine Delegate Donald Morrison, Steward Delegate Ignacio Fontelera Chairman requested copies of new contract. Deck delegate reported diluted OT. No b^fis or disputed OT reported by engine or ..:-5- 19 director advised membos to upgrade skills at Lundeberg SdKX>l. No beefs or disputed OT n^rted. Crew dis­ cussed new repair list as it circulated. Engine delegate reminded crewmem­ bers to separate plastics from othCT trash. Special waste cans distributed by steward for this pupose. Crew voted steward dqiartment top notch and gave special thanks to Oiief Steward Guzman for outstanding job. Next port Long Beadi, Cafrf. SEA-LAND INDEPENDENCE (Sea-Land Service), January 10Chairman John Stout, Secretary Nancy Heyden, Educational Direc­ tor Cardel Duim, Deck Delegate Mitchell Santana, Engine Delegate Saeed Mufl^i, Steward Delegate Carlton GriRin. Chair- U.S. Flag Makes Rare Appearance In Albania •, ^ 23,000 tons of wheat in Durres, Albania. The vessel is the second U.^ ;.-flag ship to visit that port in 40 years. The I steward delegates. Crew discussed having shuttle bus service to and from vessel in all ports outside U.S. SEA-LAND DEVELOPER (SeaLand Service), January 23—Chair­ man Ernest Duhon, Secretary L. Finn, Educational Director S. Brown, Deck Delegate Rick Bur­ gess, Engine Delegate J. Day, Steward Delegate C. Largo. Chair­ man noted new washing machine ordered last trip but not yet received. Deck delegate reported ' disputed OT and beef. No beefs or disputed OT reported by engine or steward delegates. Crew asked con­ tracts department to clarify wheel watching rules. Crew, extended vote of Aanks to steward depart­ ment for job well done. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. man thanked galley gang for holiday meals and recent cookout He reminded those signing off to clean rooms and leave keys with steward or bosun. Chairman asked contracts department for clarifica­ tion on new working rules for deck department. He askV crewmem­ bers to clean up after themselves in laundry room to make job easier for DEU and reminded them to lock up while in port. Educational director encouraged members to donate to SPAD and upgrade at Lundeberg School. No beefs or dis­ puted OT reported. Next port: Long Beach, Calif. SEA-LAND NAVIGATOR (SeaLand Service), January 16—Chair­ man Werner Berber, Secretary R. Spingat, Educational Director Wal­ ter Stevens, Deck Delegate George Paimn, Engine Delegate SEA-LAND EXPLORER (SeaPrentiss Smith, Steward Delegate Land Service), January 30-^hair- Virgilio Hoffmann. Chairman man Jack Kingsley, Secretary notV ship suffered minor damages William Burdette, Educational in recent bad weather and thanked Director G. Pollard, Engine crewmembers for efforts to bring Delegate S. Byerley. Chairman an­ situation under control. Education­ nounced arrival and payoff in Long al director advised members to Beach, Calif. No beefs or disputed upgrade skills at Lundeberg OT reported. Steward delegate dis- School. No beefs or disputV OT cussed ised develo developing system of return­ reported. Crew extended special ing movies to crew library after use vote of thanks to galley gang for ex­ in crew lounge. cellent Christmas and New Year's dinners. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. SEA-LAND HA WAII (Sea-Land Service), January 9—Chairman W. SEA-LAND PERFORMANCE Lough, Secretaiy Paul Guzman, (Sea-Land Service), January 12— Vocational Director Jose Del Rio, Chairman Richard Moss, Steward Delegate Glenn Taan. Secretary G. Griswold, Vocation­ Chairman noted new Seafarers al Director D. Grenier, Deck LOGs list updated schedules for Delegate James World, Engine 'iney Point classes and urged mem- Delegate Bobby Spencer, Steward )ers to attend. Treasurer reported Delegate Tom McNellis. Chairman $165 in ship's fund. No beefs or asked contracts department to sup­ disputed OT reported. Crew said ply copies of new contract as soon Scandal at Sea" videotape as possible. He announced Coast received but waiting for repairs to Guard inspection upon arrival in be completed on VCR. Crew stated port with payoff expected to fol­ microwave oven in crew mess hall low. Educational director reminded needs repair. Next port: Honolulu. members to upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center and take advantage of SEA-LAND HAWAII (Sea-Land all educational opportunities union Service), January 30—Chairman has to offer. Treasurer reported $50 ^ V. Lou^, Secretary Paul Guz­ in ship's fund. No beefs or dis­ man, Educational Director Jose >el Rio, Deck Delegate Allen Run- puted OT reported. Bosun gave vote of thanks to galley gang for ex­ nion. Engine Delegate K. Harder, cellent Christmas dinner and profesSteward Delegate Glenn Taan. Chairman noted crew waiting for Continuedon pt^e 21 dryer to be repaired. Educational !. • '' . V -5 . �20 MARCH 1004 SEAFARERS LOG Final Departures ' '.'.S 1: IK _ 'V •? '•" •• ' I- -• -.i';"- - DEEP SEA LEO BROWN Pensioner Leo Brown, 68, passed away February 2. A Baltimore na­ tive, he joined the Seafarers in 1946 in the port of Seat­ tle. Brother Brown sailed in the steward department. He was a veteran of the U.S. Navy in World War II. He retired in June 1984. Brother Kitsko sailed in the deck department. He served in the U.S. Army Air Corps during World War II. Brother Kitsko began receiving his pension in November 1983. receiving his pension in August 1990. LOUIS PICKHART Pensioner Louis Pickhart, 68, died January 27. A native of Jasper, Ind., he joined the Seafarers in 1959 in the port of Houston. Brother Picldiart sailed as a QMED. He upgraded at the Lun­ deberg School in 1980. Brother Pickhart served in the U.S. Navy during World War II. He retired in October 1983. HJALMARHORSMA Pensioner Hjalmar Horsma, 79, passed away Januapr 25. Bora in Min­ neapolis, Minn., he JOSE RODRIGUEZ joined the Jose union in Duluth, Minn, in 1969. Before retir­ Rodriguez, 61, passed ing in August 1979, Brother BERNARD BURGE away January Horsma sailed as an AB. Pensioner Ber­ 17. Bora in nard Burge, JESSE LASETER Colombia, he 68, died joined the PensicHier Jesse February 12. SIU in 1969 Laseter, 83, Bom in Mis­ in the port of died Febru­ sissippi, he New York. ary 11. Bora joined the in Georgia, he Brother Rodriguez sailed in the SIU in 1968 joined the SIU deck department. He upgraded at in the port of Piney Point in 1975. as a charter New Orleans. member in 1939 Brother Burge sailed in the engine JOSE SANCHEZ in the port of department. He upgraded at the Jacksonville, Jose Sanchez, Lundeberg School frequently. ^a. Brother Laseter last sailed as a 61, died May Brother Burge served in the U.S. xisun. He retired in December 1965. 10,1993. He Army from 1950 to 1952. He joined the began receiving his pension in Sep­ JULIAN LOPEZ Seafarers in tember 1991. 1956 in his na­ Pensioner tive Tampa, Julian Lopez, RICHARD COLLINS Fla. Brother 67, passed Richard Collins, 51, passed away Sanchez away January February 11. He joined the sailed as a 23. Bora in Seafarers in 1964 in his native QMED. He upgraded at the Lun­ Spain, he Mobile, Ala. Brother Collins sailed joined the deberg School in 1981. in the steward department, most SIU in 1962 recently as a chief cook. LAUREN SANTA ANA in the port of New York. Pensioner HOMER CROSS Brother Lopez sailed in the engine Lauren Santa Pensioner department. He began receiving his Ana, 81, Homer Cross, pension in October 1991. passed away 64, died February 12. February 15. DANIEL McMULLEN A native of Bora in Pensioner the Philippine Winston, Islands, he Daniel McN.C., he joined the Mullen, 73, joined the SIU in 1947 died January union in 1956 17. A native in the port of New Orleans. He in the port of of Brooklyn, sailed as a chief steward. Brother Norfolk, Va. Brother Cross sailed Santa Ana began receiving his pen­ N.Y., he as a member of the galley gang. He sion in March 1977. joined the began receiving his pension in union in 1956 June 1991. THOMAS SELF in the port of New York. Brother McMullen Pensioner TOMDANZEY primarily sailed as an AB. He Thomas Self, Pensioner Tom Danzey, 66, passed upgraded at Piney Point in 1975. 64, passed away December 25. Ah Alabama Brother McMullen was a veteran away native, he joined the SIU in 1944 of the U.S. Army in World War II February 3. A in the port of Philadelphia. Brother and sailed during the Vietnam con­ native of Danzey sailed in the deck depart­ flict. He retired in August 1980. Clinchco, ment. He retired in December 1986. Va., he joined ERNESTO MORALES the Seafarers LEOFEHER in 1951 in the Ernesto Pensioner port of Baltimore. Brother Self suc­ Morales, 64, Leo Feher, cessfully completed the bosun passed away 73, passed recertification program at the Lun­ 3. January away deberg School in 1973. He served Bora in February 3. in the U.S. Coast Guard during Mayaguez, Bora in Il­ World War II. Brother Self began P.R., he linois, he receiving his pension in September joined the joined the 1992. Seafarers in Seafarers in 1961 in the 1943 in the FRTTZBERT STEPHEN port of Puerto Rico. Brother port of New York. Brother Feher Pensioner Morales sailed in the engine depart­ sailed as an FOWT. He retired in Fritzbert ment. December 1982. Stephen, 76, died January JAMES HAYNIE ROY PEEBLES 28. Bora in Pensioner Roy Peebles, 63, died September the Virgin Is­ James 22. A native of Houston, he joined lands, he Haynie, 73, the SIU in 1953 in the port of New joined the died January York. Brother Peebles sailed in the -union in 1955 14. A native deck department. in the port of of Tangier, New York. He sailed in the Va., he sailed steward department. Brother , JULIAN PRIMERO in the deck Stephen upgraded at Piney Point in Pensioner department. 1981. He retired in December 1982. Julian Brother Primero, 68, Haynie last sailed on the Overseas GEORGE VIDRINE passed away Harriette in 1988 as bosun. He Pensioner January 1. A also sailed on such vessels as the George Philippine Is­ Liberty Wave and the Sea-Land Mc­ Vidrine, 83, lands native, Lean. Brother Haynie began receiv­ died January he joined the ing his pension in May 1989. 4. A native of union in 1971 Ville Platte, MICHAEL KITSKO in the port of . La., he joined Pensioner Michael Kitsko, 74, died Seattle. Brother Primero sailed in the SIU in the steward department. He December 24. A native of Whit­ 1961 in the upgraded at the Lundeberg School ney, Pa., he joined the Seafarers in port of Hous­ in 1977. Brother Primero began 1^8 in the port of Baltimore. ton. Brother Vidrine sailed as an FOWT. He began receiving his pensionin July 1977. DING HAI WOO Pensioner Ding Hai Woo, 84, passed away Januaty15. Bora in China, he joined the union in 1955 in the port of San Francisco. Brother Woo sailed as a chief cook. He became a U.S.' citizen in 1954. Brother Woo retired in January 1974. INLAND LOUIS CANAVINO Peiisioner Louis Canavino, 67, died January 8. A native of New Canaan, Conn., he joined the Seafarers in 1961 in the port of Baltimore. Boatman Canavino last sailed as a captain. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1944 to 1948. Boatman Canavino retired in May 1988. FREDERICK CHANSON Pensioner Frederick Chanson, 65, passed away January 14. Bora in Louisiana, he joined the union in 1974 in the port of Mobile, Ala. Boatman Chanson sailed in the deck department. He began receiv­ ing his pension in January 1991. ROBERT CHARLET Robert Charlet, 36, died February 12. A Lexington, Ky. native, he joined the SIU after graduating from the trainee pro­ gram at the Lundeberg School in 1980. Boatman Charlet sailed in the deck department aboard Orgulf tugs. WILLIAM McBUNCH Pensioner William McBunch, 63, passed away January 19. Bora in Friars Point, Miss., he joined the Se^arers in 1971 in the port of St. Louis. Boatman McBunch most recently sailed as a tankerman. He served in the U.S. Air Force from 1950 to 1953. Boat-^ man McBunch began receiving his pension in August 1992. ELVESTER SANDERS Pensioner Elvester Sanders, 65, died February 2. A South Carolina na­ tive, he joined the SIU in 1980 in the port of Nor­ folk, Va. Boatman Sanders sailed in the steward department. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1954 to 1961. Boatman San^rs retired in October 1993. LESLIE TETTERTON Leslie Tetterton, 55, passed away January 27. A Belhaven, N.C. na­ tive, he joined the SIU in 1976 in the port of Norfolk, Va. Brother Tetterton sailed as an engineer. GREAT LAKES GEORGE CAUSEY JR. Pensioner George Causey Jr., 71, passed away Novem­ ber 29. Bora in Pell City, Ala., he joined the Seafarers in 1970 in the port of Detroit. Brother Causey sail^ in both the deck and engine departments. He served in the U.S. Navy firom 1942 to 1945. Brother Causey began receiving his pension in June 1987. EDWARD LADESICH Pensioner Ed­ ward Ladesich, 81, passed away November 24. A Kansas na­ tive, he joined the SIU in 1954 in the port of Frankfort, Mich. Broker Ladesich sailed in the deck department. He retired in August 1973. ARTHUR PERRY Pensioner Ar­ thur Perry, 76, passed away January 6. Bora in St. Regis Falls, N.Y., he joined the SIU in 1960 in the port of Buffalo, N.Y. Brother Perry sailed as an FOWT aboard Kinsman Marine vessels. He was a veteran of the U.S. Navy in World War II. Brother Perry began receiving his pension in December 1981. ATLANTIC FISHERMEN JOHNOSTERLUND Pensioner John Osterlund, 82, passed away Januaiy 20. Bora in Portland, Mass., he was one of the original members of the Atlantic Fishermen's Union, an affiliate of the SIU, before it merged with the AGLIWD in 1981. Osterlund moved to Gloucester, Mass. in 1937 and worked in Aat area until the time of his retirement in April 1976. RAILROAD MARINE «• VICTOR LANZA Pensioner Victor Lanza, 82, died September 14. He joined the Seafarers in 1960 in his native New York. Brother Lanza sailed in the deck department. He served in the U.S. Army from 1942 to 1945. Brother Lanza retired in November 1975. VINCENTSADLER Pensioner Vincent Sadler, 78, passed away January 31. A native of Mathews, Va., he joined the SIU in 1960 in the port of Norfolk, Va. Brother Sadler sailed as a pilot. He began receiving his pension in November 1980. �• r5i'-, MARCH1994 Ships Digesi CoiUinuedfrom page 19 '••• •• li' sional food service. Next port: EUzabeth,N.J. SEA-LAND QUALITY (SeaLand Service), January 23—Chair­ man Carmine Bova, Secretary TJ. Smith, Deck Delegate Tom Nealon, Engine Delegate Anthony Rotunda, Steward Delegate Stephan Osovitz. Chairman reported Seafarers LOGs received. Educational director urged mem­ bers to upgrade at Paul Hall Cen­ ter. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew wished Chief Cook Osovitz well when he signed off and gave vote of thanks to steward department. Next port: Boston. SEA-LAND RELIANCE (SeaLand Service), January 13-^hairman A. Eckert, Secretary G. Sivley, Educational Director Amos Jaramillo. Chairman announced new Seafarers LOGs received. He noted ship will be in Tacoma, Wash, and thanked crew for smooth trip. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew gave vote of thanks to steward department for excellent Christmas dinner. SEA-LAND SP//?/r(Sea-Land Service), January 16—Chairman Hovrard Gibbs, Secretaiy S. Apodaca, Educational Director C. Henley, Deck Delegate S. Shields, Engine Delegate D. Locsin, Steward Delegate M. Brayman. Chairman reported sanitary inspec­ tion held and shower stalls need to be caulked. Secretary stressed im­ portance of donating to SPAD. Educational director stated any member who wants to upgrade should attend Lundeberg School classes. Treasurer reported $140 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew noted "Scandal at Sea" videotape viewed by all. Crew gave vote of thanks to galley gang for job well done. Next port: Honolulu. SEA-LAND TRADER (Sea-Land Service), January 30—Chairman L. Watson, Secretary Jack Utz, Educational Director Jan Haidir. Chairman reminded members to clean room before signing off ship. Crew requested new TV and refrigerator for crew lounge. No beefs or disputed OT reported. . Crew discussed Sea-Land's mail policy in ports of call and re­ quest^ copies of new contract when available. Steward delegate reported he is checking overall linen conditions. ULTRASEA (Sealift Inc.), January 23—Chairman M. Noble, Secretary T. Dowd, Engine Delegate Oscar Garcia, Steward Delegate F. Monsihais. Chairman announced arrival in Russia. He's still waiting for parts to complete repairs in galley. Ship's antenna and ice machine also need repair. Educational director reported all SEAFARERS UfG crewmeihbers have seen new "Scandal at Sea" video sent to ship. Treasurer reported $56 in ship's fund. Deck delegate gave special thanks to galley gang for job well done. No beefs or disputed OT reported. SUGAR ISLANDER (Pacific Gulf Marine), January 25—Chair­ man William Dean, Secretary Michael Thornton, Educational Director John Copeland, Deck Delegate Tommy Lister, Engine Delegate Geofl'rey Denesse, Steward Delegate Julio Aruz. Chairman reported new crew washer and rug shampooer received and tile in passageways and decks in laundry rooms fixed. He thanked crew for very smooth trip and announced payoff in New Orleans. Secretary thanked steward department for cleanliness of ship. Educational director reminded members to take advantage of op­ portunities available at Finey Point and to apply for SIU scholarship before April 15 deadline. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew commended steward department for excellent job. USNS SILAS BENT (Bay Ship Management), January 26-^hairman R. Vazquez, Secretary B. Henderson, Educational Director Richard Larsen. Chairman ad­ vised members new contract cur­ rently in effect and 90 days seatime needed for vacation pay per year. Secretary reported store rooms and refrigerators clean and in good order. He noted fresh stores to be received in Singapore and all pasta now being kept in refrigerators. Educational director reminded members to upgrade at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman stated annual Coast Guard inspection to be con­ ducted in next port. He reminded members to separate plastics from trash for proper disposal. Crew gave round of applause to SIU storekeeper Hugh "Tom" Catron for receiving 1(W percent on recent quality assurance inspection. Chair­ man noted it is the first perfect score ever received by ship. SEA-LAND TACOMA (SeaLand Service), February 2—Chair­ man Joseph Artis, Secretary H. Lively, Education^ Director George Ackley, Engine Delegate Walton Weaver, Steward Delegate F. Martin. Chairman noted crew still waiting for copy of new contract. Chairman announced new watch system now in effect. Educational director discussed donating money to Seaman's Church in New York for sending books to ship. He urged members to upgrade at Lundeberg School. Deck delegate reported disputed OT. No )eefs or disputed OT reported by en­ gine or steward delegates. Crew dis­ cussed building movie library of their own in crew lounge and creat­ ing shelf for new books. Crew ex­ tended special vote of thanks to galley gang for job well done. Next port Tacoma, Wash. Supply Officer Catron Aces Inspection Hugh Tom" Catron, supply officer aboard the USNSSilas Bent, recently received a 100 percent satisfactory score in all areas of a rigorous qualify assurance inspection aboard ship—the first and only supply officer in Military Sealift Command-Atlantic history to "ace" the inspection. Brother Catroii has been sailing with the SIU for six yeans. Prior to joining the union, he worked for MSC for 14 years and began his supply carMr jn ^ logistic supply for helicopters during the Vietnam the U.S. War. Above, atron'is at work during a recent stopover in Singapore. wPt 21 SEAFARERS SCHOLARSHIPS This winter has been devas­ tating for virtually every region of the country. But take heart— spring is on the way, and with it come thoughts of growth, of renewal—of education!. Only one month remains in which to complete a scholarship application for the seven awards that will be issued in 1994 to three Seafarers and four de­ pendents of SIU members. Of the seven scholarships to be awarded this year, three are reserved for SIU members (one in the amount of $15,000 for a four-year scholarship to a col­ lege or university, and two $6,000 two-year scholarships for study at a vocational school or community college). The other four stipends will be granted to spouses and depend­ ent children of Seafarers. Each of these four is a $15,000 scholarship for study at a fouryear college or university. Anyone who has looked into the costs associated with higher education knows the financial burden that can sometimes result. A Seafarers scholarship will help ease that burden. The $15,000 college scholarships will be paid at the rate of $3,750 per year over a four-year period. The $6,000 awards are paid at the rate of $3,000 per year for two years. Eligibility requirements for Seafarers and their spouses and unmarried dependents are spelled out in a booklet which contains an application form. It is available by filling out and returning the coupon below. The 1994 Scholarship Program booklets also are available at all SIU hiring halls. But remember; Completed applications must be sent to the Seafarers Welfare Plan on on before April 15, 1994—so act now! The scholarship application form must be complet^ by ALL applicants and includes: • Autobiographical State­ ment • Photograph of Applicant • Certified Copy of Birth Certificate • High School Transcript AND Certification of Graduation Official Copy of High School Equivalency Scores College Transcript Letters of Reference SAT or ACT Results. The application form aiid the first three items Usted hereshould be mailed by die applicant All other items should mailed by the person or agency fiom whom they are requested. All items should besent to Scholarship Pro­ gram, Seafarers Welfare Plan, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Act Now. Time Is Running Out. ••'A.- 'If? Send for Your Application Form Today! * niease send me the 1994 SIU Scholarship Program booklet which contains eligibility information, procedures for apply­ ing and the application form. ' A ^ Name Book Number. Address City, State, Zip Code Telephone Number_ This application is for • Self • • • •' A - Dependent -• f Mail this completedform to Scholarship Program, Seafarers Welfare Plan, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. 3/94 i | -1^ �•It. :'# • •i fi • Klfrlli.':' 22 SEAFARERS LOG mRCH 1994 Lundeberg School Graduating Classes ii Trainee Lifeboat Class 519—Graduating from trainee lifeboat class 519 are (from left, kneeling) Bryan Bush, Andrew Keane, James Murphy, Samuel Forrest, Eric Garror, Elwood Leguillou, Randy XJpgraders Lifeboat—^With instoictor Jim Brown (left) are Pearson, Kurt Benjamin, (second row) Jim Brown (instructor), Jerry Leonard, John McDonald Jr., Robert upgrading graduates of the December 14 lifeboat class (from left) Mahone, Eric Mose, Timothy Hadley, Walter Bagby, Spencer Hunter, Claudio Romano, Kenneth yVayne Webb, Jeannette Hall and Michael San Juan. Flanagan, Thomas Schaefer Jr., Daniel Tapley and Cyrus Brewster. Third Mate^ertificates of cornpletion were received by the December 7 class of Celestial Navigation—The December 15 graduates of the celestial navigation upgraders. They are (from left, front row) Susan Corliss, Daniel Vi^, Daniel Hughes, course are (from left, front row) John Bellinger, Mark Lamar, Romeo Lugtu, Mark A. SiK E. Me^r, MarcTkyloran^i Pumproom Maintenance—Graduating on December 9 from the pumproom rnantenance cour^ are (from left kneeling) Art Victor MullJDhns Gilman Marsha Dawson, Miguel Rullan, Brantley Twiford, Lawrence Bante, (third row) Mark Glinka, Allen Scott, Dan Holden (instructor), Mark Lawrence and EncMornson. Diesel Engine—Receiving certification in diesel engine technology are (from left, seated) Dennis Riley, Bruce Smith, Joseph Jay Amold, (second row) Gary Frazier, Steve Erdell, J.C. Wiegman (instructor), Wesley \N\se, Larry M. Pittman, Jarrres Gibson and Matthew DiTullio. Basic Electronics—^Working their way up through the engine department are Radar—Renewing their radar endorsements on January 14 are (from left front row) (from left, front rqw) Arthur Wadsworth, Herman Manzer, Richard G.Buchanan, (second Patrick Cross, Mariana Photiou, Lee Harman fsecond rowi rhnQtian H Womer row) Brantley Twiford, Marsha Dawson, Michael Goins and Russ Levin (instructor). Michael Woodman and Jake Karaczynski (instructor) �* '/ *•< MARCH 1994 {>•.. SEAFARERS LOG LUNDEBERG SCHOOL 1994 UPGRJURHG COURSE SCHEDULE The following is the course schedule for classes beginning between April and August 1994 at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg Schoolof Seamanship located at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. All programs are geared to improve job skills of Seafarers and to promote the American maritime industry. The course schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and—^in times of conflict—the nation's security. Deckllpgradinglknuses Course Check-In Dafe Completion Date Able Seaman May 20 July 15 July 1 August 26 RecertMcallonPngnms Course Check-In Date Comidetlon Date Bosun Recertifi<»tion Mardi28 May 2 Steward Recertifiation Julys Augusts Course Checkrin Date Comidetion Date Assistant Cook, Cook and Baker All open-ended (contact admissions office for starting dates) Chief Cook, Chief Steward Ail open-ended (contact admisdons ofBce for starting dates) Baglne Upgratling Courses All students must take the Oil Spill Prevention and Containment class. Course Bridge Management (Shiphandling) Radar Certification :S::: - , ,C-,, ^ -Y . Celestial Navigation ; : Third Mate , Limited License, Part 1 Limited License, Part 2 - Limited License, Part 3 23 Check-In Date Completion Date May 6 July 29 May August 12 April 29 May 20 June 17 July 22 August 19 May 6 May 27 June 24 July 29 August 26 Julyl August 12 April 19 August 12 Pumproom Maint & Operations May 2 June 10 April 11 June 20 April 22 Julyl Hydraulics June 20 July 15 April 25 July 5 May 6 July 15 Marine Electrical Maintenance July5 August 26 May 9 July 18 May 20 July 29 All students must take the Oil Spill Prevention and Containment class. QMED - Any Rating August 1 October 21 FiremanAVatertender and Oiler May 9 June 17 Diesel Engine Technolt^ June 27 July 22 Refrigeration Maint. & Operations August 1 September 9 '~TRefrig. Containers - Advanced Maint. May 2 , • ^ June 10 'MShS, 1994AauHBIucatton Scheiule The following courses are available through the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School. Please contact the admissions office for enrollment information. Safely Sj^lalty Courses Course Check-In Date Completion Date Course Check-In Date Completion Date GED Preparation 12 weeks - open-ended admission Oil Spill Prevention and (Containment) June 17 July 1 August 26 June 24 Julys September 2 Adult Basic Education (ABE) 6 weeks - open-ended admission English as a Second Language (ESL) 6 weeks - open-ended admission Lifeboatman April 22 May 6 May 20 June 17 July 15 August 12 August 26 May 6 May 20 June 3 July 1 July 29 August 26 September 9 Developmental Studies May 2 June 27 July 11 August 22 September 5 May 6 May 20 July 22 Basic/Advanced Fire Fighting Julys Sealift Operations & Maintenance May 9 July 11 General Educatton College Courses June 3 Session n May 9 Julyl Augusts Sessionm September 12 November 4 Primary language spoken UPGRADING APPLRMTION Name. (Middle) (Fust) (Last) Address (Stieet) (Zip Code) (Stale) (City) Date of Birth. Telephone ( (AieaCMe) (Mooth/Day/Year) Inland Waters MemberQ Lakes Membo-D Deep Sea Member D May 6 June 30 July 15 August 26 September 9 With this application, COPIES of your discharges must be submitted showing suffi­ cient time to qualify yourself for the course(s) requested. You also must submit a COPY of each of the following: the first page of your union book indicating your department and seniority, your clinic card arul the jront and back of your z-card as well as your Lundeberg School identification card listing the course(s) you have taken and com­ pleted The Admissions Office WILL NOT schedule you until all of the above are received BEGIN END DATE DATE COURSE If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security # .Book#_ Seniority . Department U.S. Citizen: •Yes • No Home Port. Are you a graduate of the SHLSS trainee program? If yes, class# Have you attended any SHLSS upgrading courses? Date On: • Yes • Yes • NO GNO If yes, course(s) taken Do you hold the U.S. Coast Guard Lifeboatman Endorsement? • Yes GNO Firefighting:GYcs GNO Rating: LAST VESSEL: Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held CPR:GYes GNO SIGNATURE. Date Off:. .DATE. Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only if you present original receipts and successfully complete the course. If you have any questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point RETURN COMPLETED APPUCATION TO: Lundeberg Upgrading Center, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674. ^ • -I'l • :. �' —^--- •<F^ra»y^'||l!yi ;• ]';• • $ ' Volume 56, Number 3 March 1994 Time Is Running Out! The deadline to apply for a Seafarers scholarship is April 15— only one month from now. Don't pass up this opportunity for a higher education. See page 21 for additional information. . Now moored in Plney Point, the Empress //still features part of the pulse generator/antenna system once used to simulate electromagnetic pulses. •'liSi Upgraders at the Paul Hall ment maintenance; a small been jointly approved by the the 120-foot Empress II into ttie explosions which occur above the Center for Maritime Training and lounge and mess area with (Maritime) Admnistration and curriculum. "We're going to be atmosphere generate an able to use diis barge in so many electromagnetic pulse (EMP). Education soon will have the op­ sanitary and shower facilities; Ae U.S. Coast Guard..." different classes, it's amazing. This The EMP does not harm people, The vessel, which is loaded and two diesel engines which run portunity to train aboard the is really a major asset to the but depending upon the strength with top-flight equipment, is on the synchronized generators that Empress II, a state-of-the-art of the induct electromagnetic barge formerly used by the power the barge. (The generators loan to the Seafarers Harry Lun- school." "It has every item that we train field, damage, can range from government for electromagnetic pack 600 kilowatts of power- deberg School of Seamanship for enough to run the entire school in the next three years. After that, witl^" said Bill Saul, waterways momentary electrical interrup­ testing. the government may opt to donate advisor for the Paul Hall Center. tion to total overload and birmout Some of the barge's features a state of emergency.) "There's something for everyone, of circuits. include the following: refrigera­ The Paul Center recently it to the school. whether they sail deep sea. Great In July 1984 the U.S. Navy tion and atmospheric control sys­ acquired the Empress II (short for Valuable Training Tool Lakes, inland or on passenger contracted to build and test a tems; sewage control and Electromagnetic Pulse Radioseaworthy EMP simulator—the disposal; a complete hydraulics Frequency Instructors and administrators ships." Environment Saul joined Lundeberg School Empress II. The vessel included a system; winches; centrifuges; Simulator for Ships) via the U.S. at the Paul Hall Center say the ballast control (from 2 to 15 feet) Defense Region^ Material Of­ Empress II will be an exception­ instructors Ben Cusic, Bill powerful pulse generator/antenna and bilge pumping; a complete fice based in Virginia, under ally versatile and valuable train- Hellwege, Daimy Holden, Ron system that was used to simulate generator balancing system; heat­ terms of theMerchant Marine Act ing tool. Engine and deck Raykows^, Tommy Swarm and an EMP which was radiated at ing and water-treatment systems; of 1936, as amended in 1980. department upgraders routinely Jeff Swanson in transporting the military ships in order to evaluate rigging, anchors and safety rafts; That law reads in part that "excess will use it, as will all members Empress II from Virginia's York their resistance, as well as the self-contained breathing equip­ or surplus vessels, shipboard who participate in firefrghting, River to Piney Point, Md. in potential vulnerability of ship­ ment and other safety gear. equipment and other marine confined space training and January. Pushed by the tug Susan board systems. Collins and directed by the The Empress II, which is fully Equipment, owned by the United damage control courses. The Empress II's integrated functional and has two interior States, may be made available by "It will be in constant use," Seafarer (both Lundeberg School systems consisted of a massive levels, also sports compartments gift, loan, sale, lease or charter to said Lundeberg School Vocation­ training vessels), the barge ar­ transmitter mounted on deck, and for administrative activities and the Federal and state maritime al Director Jim Shaffer, who rived in less than 24 hours. a receiver on the ship being barge control and operation; a academies and to any nonprofit added that instructors currently "The trip was beautiful. We tested. After several years of per­ workshop for barge and equip­ training institution which has are formulating plans to integrate had the best weather that we had for forming such tests, the vessel be­ the entire winter," said Hellwege, came classified as government who directed the transport of Ae surplus. The pulse generator since has barge. "This is a tremendous ac­ Alarm systems are part of the statebeen removed, as has part of the quisition for the school and a realis­ of-the-art equipment aboard the antenna support structure. tic training aid." vessel. Now, it has found a new home High-Tech Testing at Piney Point. "Students will The Empress II was built in the learn by actually performing mid-1980s and launched in 1986. preventive maintenance on the But in some ways, its roots go barges," said Shaffer. "This will B ^ SS lilt ; ?ii back to 1962, when a high-al­ substantially reduce the cost of titude nuclear test in the Pacific maintaining it. disrupted electric power in "It seems like every day, Hawaii, some 600 miles away. someone comes up with another Tests confirmed that nuclear idea about how we can use it." Help Locate This HUssing Child The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children has asked the Seafarers International Union to assist them in locating Kevin Jay Ayotte. Kevin and his brother were upstairs playing in their sum- Kavin Jay Ayotte mer home in Sugarbush, Minn, on September 30, 1982. Their mother went outside for a short while. When she returned, 5ye^old Kevin was gone. The photo at left is shown age-progressed to the age of 13 or 14 years old. Kevin has a scar on the right side of his chin, his speech is limited and he is hearing impaired. At the time of his disap­ pearance, the blonde-haired, blue-eyed child was 4 feet tall and weighed 50 pounds. Anyone having information on the whereabouts of Kevin Jay Ayotte should contact the Na­ tional Center for Missing and Exploited Children at (8(X)) 8435678 or the Missing Persons Unit of the Beltrami County (Minn.) Sheriffs Office at (218) 751-9111. . -:>• 'f "4 •; : -SfM 4 � 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 1990-1999 Description An account of the resource Volumes LII-LXI Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993; Seafarers Log Scanned Issues 1984-1988, 1994-Present Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource March 1994 Description An account of the resource Headlines: PENA: FUNDS PUT IN BUDGET TO REVITALIZE U.S. FLEET KEY HOUSE MEMBERS VOW TO ENACT 1995 SHIP BILL SIU PRESSES CASE TO END SEAMEN'S WORK TAX DOT HEAD: INDLAND SAFETY A 'PRIORITY' TOUGH REGS LIMIT ACCESS TO GROUNDFISH FISHERY AFL-CIO URGES BACKING OF KINGS POINT FACILITY DOT, BENTLEY AND U.S. CARRIERS BALK AT CARGO PREFERENCE WAIVER NEW LAW ENDS COAST GUARD'S MAINTENANCE OF DISCHARGES DESPITE ICY WATERS, LAKES SEASON LOOKS GOOD HANNAH TUGS NEVER STOP NEW COVE TANKER CREWED BY SIU MTD URGES CONGRESS TO PASS HEALTH CARE REFORM THIS YEAR INVESTIGATION CONTINUES INTO TRAIN DERAILMENT USCG EXPLORES UNDER-REPORTING OF MISSISSIPPI BARGE ACCIDENTS '94 BRINGS SPATE OF RUNAWAY ACCIDENTS COAST GUARD TO CHECK MORE FOREIGN VESSELS SEAFARERS JOIN STRIKING DIAMOND WORKERS FISHERMEN BRAVE WEATHER ALL YEAR ROUND SEAFARERS KICK OFF 1994 TUBERCULOSIS TESTING PROGRAM COSTLY SPREAD OF ZEBRA MUSSELS AFFECTS SHIPPING, OTHER INDUSTRIES 'LEARN WHILE YOU WORK' IS THEME OF BOSUN DARLEY UNION OFFICERS AND P.R. MEMBERS CONFER ON WIDE RANGE OF ISSUES HOLIDAYS ARE A FAMILY AFFAIR AT THE JACKSONVILLE SIU HALL SEAFARERS BACK SUIT AGAINST USER FEE ESCAPE TO PINEY POINT PAUL HALL CENTER ENHANCED BY NEW BARGE 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 3/1/1994 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. 56, No. 3 1994 Periodicals Seafarers Log