http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/56d87ffb90e0bae62d099622e8191945.PDF 7cb9654c31e1a25ddbc2651014888ebf PDF Text Text .•'yj.yC .y ^51.: ': fl ' 'Wy J'M Crewmembers aboard Bisso tugboats, like the two shown above, voted to sign on with the Seafarers Big Chiil ices Lakes Fitoiit, Causes Deiays The harshest winter in recent memory forced many Great Lakes vessels to stay in port longer than originally scheduled because of ice blocking the shipping lanes. The winter conditions affected such SIUcrewed vessels as the St. Clair and tugboat Arkansas. Story on page 6. - ' •' ' '.rCM'- y'm ;• vfe| 2 �2 APRIL 1994 SEAFMERSLOG President's Report Health Care Fight Begins .if' ••-v'ii, .... i), ^4 >f' "• ' "l" The fight is on. After months of verbal salvoes fired by those entrenched and enriched by the present medical pro­ gram, Congress has started to hold hearings on legislation to reform America's health care system. During the election of 1992, the AFLCIO spoke in behalf of working people all across America who were concerned about the continuing need to give up pay raises and other benefits in order to maintain ade­ quate health care coverage for themselves and their families. Candidate Bill Clinton listened and made health care reform a Michael Sacco priority. The president set up a study group to look into every aspect of the problem and come back with suggestions, to the White House on what should be done. The committee met with average citizens and medical professionals all across the country to gather evidence on what has become a crisis in America. Tfie president introduced these ideas on September 22 during a nationally televised address. Yet, despite the fact that almost 39 million Americans in the latest count are uninsured, despite the fact that the national inflation rate averages around three percent while the medical inflation rate grows at 11 percent annually, despite the fact that the United States spends far more of its gross national product on health care than any of the other major industrial­ ized nations (which provide universal coverage for their citizens), there are still those who claim we do not have a health care crisis. No health care crisis? Try telling that to the head of a household who has been laid off and now has no protection for his or her family. Try telling that to a single parent who is trying to make ends meet at a low-paying job that does not provide any health care benefits. Try telling that to someone who has dealt with the skyrocketing prices of medicine when his or her budget has been knocked out of whack to fill a ^ prescription for an illness. The naysayers claim we don't have a health care crisis. But, another 2.3 million Americans joined the ranks of the uninsured in 1992, and that figure continues to increase. And who pays for those without insurance? For one, those of us in the trade union movement who have health care coverage. While union workers enjoy coverage that others don't, skyrocketing prices have put a strain on the health in­ surance plans of those who have coverage. That's because every time an uninsured person gets treated in an emergency room, the cost is passed along through higher prices to those who do enjoy coverage. However, those same naysayers who claim there is no health care crisis are offering their own legislation to "reform" health care. Their idea of so-called reform is not to bring all Americans to the standard of coverage enjoyed by workers covered by a union contract, but to lower the coverage of those with benefits to a substandard level. Then they would tax anyone who seeks to obtain a higher level of coverage. The SIU will oppose any such move in Congress to lower the standard of health care in this country. That is not reform; that is regression. The Seafarers will stand with the AFL-CIO in its support of a health care reform initiative, like the president's, that in­ cludes true reform of the system. Among those principles that must be part of any bill fixing the nation's health care system are universal coverage for all Americans —^ coverage that can­ not be taken away because of illness, lack of a job or any other cause; preservation of quality care and containment of the spiraling costs. As the Congress debates both the president's health care reform proposal and all the other pieces of legislation dealing with the same subject, the AFT-CIO will be working to ensure that any system adopted benefits working people and their families. The SIU certainly will do everything it can to assist in those efforts. Volume 56. Number 4 April 1994 The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 0160-2047) is published monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District; AFL-CIO; 5201 Auth Way; Camp Springs, Md. 20746. Telephone (301) 899-0675. Second-class postage paid at MSC Ihince Georges, Md. 20790-9998 and at additional maiUng offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, Md. 20746. Managing Editor, Daniel Duncan; Associate Editors, Jor­ dan Biscardo and Corrina Christensen; Associate Editor/Production, Deborah A. Hirtes; Art, Bill Brower. SIU fishermen join with others from New England to protest the conditions of their industries during a sit-in at the New Bedford, Mass. federal building on March 11. Commene Dept Gtters Aid Package After New England Fbhermen Protest The remaining $12 million scalloping dredges. Implementa­ A month-long series of meet­ ings and protests led by SIU will come from the department's tion was set for March 1. A shortage of the new nets and fishermen from the port of New National Oceanic and Atmospheric rings, however, as well as com­ Bedford, Mass. culmihated in the Administration in loan guarantees plications in implementing the release late last month of $30 mil­ and direct grants for alternative plan forced the service to delay lion in economic aid by the U.S economic activities and a series of implementation of the program Fishery Assistance Centers, in­ Commerce Department. for one month. A second exten­ Commerce Secretary Ronalc cluding two mobile operations to sion until May 1 was granted for Brown announced the assistance help affected fishermen. the new nets and until June 1 for While welcoming the federal package while meeting in Boston rings. aid, both Kerry and Sen. Edward on March 21 with New England area fishermen and elected offi­ Kennedy (D-Mass.) called it only Limits Days at Sea a first step in the efforts to help the cials. Shortly after the fishermen The announcement of the aid New England fishing industry. came after a month in which New Brown noted the Clinton ad­ received their notification con­ Bedford Seafarers were joined by ministration would be seeking ad­ cerning the nets, another letter fellow fishermen from other ports ditional funds designed to help from the fisheries service was ar­ riving in their mailboxes. in Massachusetts and Maine in the industiy. The letters notified boat tying up their vessels in Boston Regs Decrease Yield Harbor for two weeks. The fisher­ owners how many days they The protests that brought the could sail during the upcoming men held meetings with state and federal elected officials to discuss problems of the New England year under two systems the ser­ the plight of their industry. fishing industry to Washington's vice was proposing. One, called Then, after returning to their attention began earlier this year the fleet system, was limited to home ports, the New Bedford when the federal government 190 days for the year. The other, fishermen conducted a peaceful began informing fishermen of called the individual boat system, sit-in on the steps of the town's new regulations that would was based on the average number federal building to call attention decrease the amount groundfish of days the boat sailed in the pre­ to the problems associated with and scallops they could catch. vious year and reduced by 10 per­ increasing federal regulations and (Groundfish is a general term for cent. decreasing stock in the Georges haddock, cod, various flounders The idea behind the program and other commercially impor­ was to reduce the amount of fish­ Bank fishery. The fishermen had been ur­ tant species of fish.) ing that occurs in the Georges ging the government to release For years, the National Marine Bank. However, as it has been economic aid funds authorized Fisheries Service (NMFS) has announced, the program actually last year in the $7.6 billion been working on a plan to reduce hurts vessels which have been California earthquake relief the number of fish caught in the practicing conservation—like measure. Senator John Kerry (D- Georges Bank, located in the those sailing under an SIU con­ Mass.) had amended the bill to North Atlantic off the coast of tract—which requires four days authorize the commerce secretaty New England. Overfishing of the ashore for every 10 days at sea, to make available up to $550 mil­ grounds, caused in part by and rewards the non-union boats lion for the fishing industry in overament efforts to build up the that simply come into port to off­ disaster aid. commercial fleet, had greatly load fish, change crews and then reduced the amount of fish that return to sea. Concerns Remain could be harvested In order to monitor the days at Despite the announcement of Despite the fact that planning sea, the NMFS had ordered the the aid, fishermen are concerned for the regulations had been fishing boats to carry Vessel that it may not be enough to deal taking place for years, the fisher­ Tracking Systems, known as with the problems in their in­ men started receiving letters at black boxes." The cost for such he beginning of 1994 from the devices runs up to $5,000 plus dustry. Henri Francois, SIU port agent WFS that they would have to monthly usage fees. The SIU has in New Bedford, noted the fisher­ purchase larger mesh nets for men are wondering how the groundfish and larger rings for Continued on page 14 money will be distributed. "There is a concern that very little of the $30 million may ac­ tually reach the fishermen it is intended to help," Francois said. "Much of that will depend on the details that have not been final­ ized." According to a statement is­ sued Iw the Commerce Depart­ ment, $18 million of the aid will be targeted at entire communities affected by . new regulations and declining fish stocks. It will focus on the longterm recovery of the impacted towns and villages through community reinvestment Seafarer Tony Santos demonstrates to the press that fish which are considered undersized by the U.S. government are allowable in and diversification. Canada. The fish in tum are imported for sale in the United States. '} �• .'..A- • APRIL 1994 SEAFARERSLOG •,•;.••- -r-' - . 3 E.N. Bisso Crews Vote SlU By 2-1 ^1: February 22 aboard the Bisso tug lot of propaganda and they came Gladys B., which was in port in on the boats the week before the longtime non-union Gulf tugboat New Orleans and was secured by election and tried to tell us to vote no. company voted overwhelmingly officials from the National Labor "But it didn't make any dif­ last month to be represented by Relations Board (NLRB). Addi­ ference to me. You see the results the Seafarers International tional secret ballot voting also of the vote—evidently, we Union. took place on March 3 in Miami wanted to join the union, and By a count of 45 to 27, the aboard the Capt. Bud Bisso, the we're happy because we have the boatmen working for New Or­ one Bisso vessel that sails off­ union. Guys know they're going leans-based E.N. Bisso Co. sig­ shore. to have good benefits and wages nalled that they wanted union The NLRB counted the ballots and job security over the long representation, despite an intense and announced the results on haul." anti-union campaign waged by March 8. Dean Corgey, vice president the company. Since the election, the SIU has of the SIU's Gulf Coast Region, Voting was conducted by been preparing for contract talks said, "I have a tremendous "A union means you have a future," says AB Robert Neff Sr., who works aboard Bisso tugs like the one above. "I think this is terrific." secret ballot and took place with the company. However, amount of respect for the boat­ Bisso filed objections about the men in the Bisso fleet. They were election with the NLRB. The subjected to the most intimidating agency currently is investigating and vicious anti-union campaign that I've ever seen. But they hung Bisso's objections. together, showed a lot of guts and E.N. Bisso, which openly has they prevailed. resisted union organizing of its "We reach out to those 27 who employees for many years, didn't support the union to come operates a fleet of 15 boats — 14 on board. The more people who of which work in ship docking are with the union effort, the operations from the Gulf up the stronger we'll be at the bargain­ Mississippi River as far north as ing table and the better their con­ Baton Rouge, La. tract is going to be." "I voted yes because I believe Meanwhile, an ex-Bisso cap­ a union is the only sensible way a tain who requested anonymity working man can go," said Deck­ until his charges against the com­ hand Robert Neff Sr. "A union pany are processed said he means you have a future. I think believed the company fired him this is terrific." because he refused to cooperate In reference to Bisso's efforts in Bisso's aggressive anti-union to get crewmembers to vote campaign. against the union, Neff, 57, TTie captain also expressed the added, "What the company has general view of many of his ship­ done to us has been very in­ mates that the company was timidating, and I'm not the type trying to intimidate the crew from who's easily intimidated. They're exercising their right to free E.N. Bisso's 15 tugboats. Including the ones pictured here, are used for docking operations. very sarcastic,'they've put out a choice. BSrug^u""" "" n.em!' ""ctwrmbTrs' Fired Capt Returns to Work After MTD Protests Dismissal Nelson Flew Historic Flag to Support U.S. Mariners . • ,'Vi;.-'A n The captain of the President Four days later. Nelson, a the American flag to foreign-flag F.D. Roosevelt, who had been Vietnam veteran and commander registry. "We emphasize this point be­ fired for flying an historic. in the Naval Reserve who has Revolutionary War-era worked for APL for 17 years, was cause it is against this backdrop American flag as a peaceful show relieved of his command of the that the action of Captain Nelson of support for the U.S. merchant Pres. Roosevelt. On March 8, ... is easily understood." In the letter to Lillie, Sacco marine, was reinstated after a Nelson was fired by company of­ unified protest by maritime labor ficials in a meeting at APL's of­ called for reinstatement of Nelson was launched under the auspices fices in Oakland, Calif. The letter as master of the Pres. Roosevelt; of the AFL-CIO Maritime Trades of dismissal given to the 48- for assurance that no attempts year-old Nelson cited "viola­ will be made to "in any way in­ Department (MTD). Captain Richard Nelson tion of APL Policies and hibit [the crew's] right to spe^ up on issues of concern to them and resumed command of the Pres. Procedures ..." A groundswell of protest im­ the American public"; and for Roosevelt on March 21, less than two weeks after his firing and mediately erupted over Nelson's disciplinary action against the of­ ficials from APL who were Crewmembers aboard the President Roosevelt display the historic I after resolving differences with firing. responsible for Nelson's firing. Revolutionary War-era flag which Captain Nelson raised on March 1 American President Lines, Ltd. MTD Presi­ He also pointed out the ap­ while the vessel was In port In Guam. Among those pictured are SIU (APL). dent Michael parently contradictory actions of members Joseph Tucker (chief cook, standing at far right) and Alvin Acting on behalf of the entire Sacco, who also APL receiving fedei^ subsidies Solomon (assistant cook, kneeling at right). crew—which includes members is president of the while proceeding with plans to of the SIU (steward department), SIU, called a reflag some of its vessels and scheduled to go to arbitration tive," the statement reads. "We in the SIUNA-affiliated Sailors' meeting while building new ships over­ before the settlement with APL will continue to work together to Union of the Pacific (deck) and Washington that seas. was reached. seek the survival of the U.S. mer­ Marine Firemen's Union (en­ included repreThe MTD's actions came on ? APL and the MM&P issued a chant marine." sentatives from Capt. Nelson gine), the Masters, Mates & Pilots the heels of a resolution passed by joint statement noting that In June 1993, APL and Sea(MM&P, deck officers) and Dis­ all of the unions its San Francisco Port Council Nelson's reinstatement with full involved in these incidents. (The Land Service Inc. filed applica­ trict 1-MEBA (engine officers) immediately after Nelson's dis­ Nelson on March 1 raised a flag MTD consists of 42 affiliated missal. In that resolution, the port back pay demonstrates the effec­ tions for approval from the U.S. aboard the Pres. Roosevelt bear­ unions which represent more than council proclaimed support of the tiveness of the collective bargain­ government to transfer 20 vessels ing process. ing the likeness of a snake on 13 8 million workers.) to foreign registry. The com­ captain and vowed to "take all Signed by Lillie and MM&P panies cited the lack of a new U.S. red and white stripes and the Afterward, in a communica­ appropriate action against thedis­ words "Don'tTread On Me." One tion sent to APL President and graceful punishment imposed by President Tim Brown, the state­ maritime program. ment describes the resolution of of the earliest flags in U.S. his­ CEO John Lillie on March 16, (APL) upon our brother " Later in the year, the House the situation as "amicable." tory, it was hoisted in place of the Sacco noted the "condition of un­ passed a maritime revitalization "The confidence established Receives Back Pay Stars and Stripes as a peaceful certainty and instability among bill. by our joint efforts in support of Nelson n^ived back pay and protest over /the^ demise of the thq company's crewmembers by The Clinton administration American merchant fleet, while virtue of [APL's] repeated threats lenefits. His union, the MM&P, maritime revitalization legisla­ presented its revitalization pro­ the ship was in port in Apra Har­ and intimations that it was prepar­ lad filed a grievance with the tion contributed to our ability to bor, Guam. ing to switch its operations from company, and the case was place this controversy in perspec­ gram to Congress last month. •'I• ' I •-•-rirrf'~irri if- -|-rf-|"rr-r JJL JI •" > �4 SBAFARERS LOG APHH. 1994 House Takes Up Waterways Safety Bill Merchant Marine Committee Chairman Studds Calls for Sweeping Changes ^ 'V ^ Rep. Gerry Studds (D-Mass,), said Studds following the intro­ where they operate, subject to towing vessel simulator. Under seamen (ABs). Third, all towing vessels, chairman of the House Merchant duction of the Tov ing Safety Act. Coast Guard inspection. The current law, an applicant for an regardless of size, would be uninspected towing vessel Marine and Fisheries Conlmittee, "Huck Finn could not drift down Coast Guard would inspect operated by a Coast Guard licensed operator's license only has to pass has introduced an inclusive bill the mighty Mississippi today towing vessels at least once every master. This would eliminate the a written test. An actual two years to ensure that they carry which addressees many aspects without getting run over. current "operators license" and re­ demonstration of ability to of towing safety, licensing, man­ "Those who use these waters appropriate safety and naviga­ quire towboats to be operated by operate a vessel or its equipment tional equipment and are in com for commercial purposes must ning, equipment and inspection licensed masters and, depending on is not , re­ pliance with applicable marine recognize that times have designed to improve the safety of their size, cany one, two or t&ee quired. safety laws. "It makes absolute! changed, they no longer have the the nation's inland waterways. licensed mates. This change would "To get The Towing Safety Act (H.R. rivers to themselves and they face no sense to vigorously inspect driver' bring the towing industry in line 4058) includes many safety a growing array of obstacles in barges but completely ignore the license you with the licensing system used by standards supported by the SIU the form of highway bridges, rail­ fact that these are inert objects have to de­ all other segments of the marine and the union's efforts over the road bridges and shoreline that only become ert when a towmonstrate transportation industry, Studds past few years to bolster the safety development. Safety must tri­ boat moves them. A barge, by proficiency by noted. conditions along America's umph over tradition. Licensing itself, is not going anywhere. If it "Many towboats are operated actually driv­ navigable waterways. and manning standards must be runs into a bridge, another vessel Rep. Studds ing a car. It in a safe and responsible manner H.R. 4058 includes the inland brought into the modem era," said or the bank, it is because a towonly makes and I expect that this legislation boat has pushed it, pulled it or set safety provisions endorsed by the chairman. sense to re­ would have a negligible impact Transportation Secretary According to a U.S. Coast it loose," said Studds. "These ves­ Federico Pena during a March 2 Guard report of December 6,1993, sels should be inspected and those quire an operator of a towing ves­ on the way they do business be­ hearing of the House Coast Guarc entitled "Review of Marine Safety entrusted with operating them sel to demonstrate proficiency at cause they are already doing the and Navigational-Subcommittee. Issues Related to Uninspected should be required to demonstrate driving a towboat," stated the right thing. Unfortunately, others are not so responsible, and it is chairman. The secretary called the effort to Towing Vessels," there were that they can do so safely." those operators that this bill tar­ Under current law, only improve waterways safety "one 12,971 marine casualties involving Limits on Exams gets," said Studds. of our highest priorities." uninspected towing vessels be­ towing vessels over 300 gross Finjilly, the bill requires that The bill also places a limit on tween 1980 and 1991^—1,080 acci­ tons that operate seaward of the Accidents Spotlight Need the number of times an applicant all marine casualties be reported dents per year or an average of shoreline are inspected. can take a license exam. (The to the Coast Guard as soon as The need for such legislation nearly three each and every day. Requires Navigational Aids pilot of the Mauvilla failed the practicable, but in no case later The Coast Guard's study found has been highlighted by two very H.R. 4058 would require that Coast Guard License exam seven than five days after the event. It serious accidents involving tugs that 59 percent of these accidents increases the penalty for not and barges in the past six months. were directly related to personnel all towing vessels carry radar, an times.) doing so from $1,000 to $25,000. On September 22, the tug Mauvil- errors and 16 percent were at­ electronic position-fixing device, The Studds bill would increase la, pushing six barges, struck a tributable to equipment failures. adequate communications equip­ the manning requirements of Bills Under Consideration bridge in Big Bayou Canot near "This is not a skety record to be ment, a sonic depth finder, a com­ uninspected towing vessels in No hearing date has been set Mobile, Ala., knocking the proud of," stated Studds. pass, adequate towing equipment severk ways. First, it requires "The legislation I am introduc­ and up-to-date navigational everyone involved with the for the Towing Safety Act, which structure's railroad track 41 in­ ches out of alignment. Amtrak's ing will impose requirements for charts. Licenses could also, for operation of a towing vessel to encompasses several safety Sunset Limited derailed because towing vessel inspection and the first time, cany a limitation on carry merchant mariner docu­ measures that are outlined in two of the misaligned track, and 47 tighten those for equipment, man­ the number of barges an operator ments (also known as z-cards). bills already under consideration ning and licensing, so that we could tow. people were killed. All employees on towing vcissels, by the House Coast Guard and On January 7, the barge Mor­ may reduce accidents and provide Studds noted that the tug )assenger vessels and offshore Navigation Subcommittee. ris J. Berman, adrift after its greater safety for commercial Mauvilla did not carry even the supply vessels will be required The Inland Documentation towline broke, struck a coral reef traffic on bur waterways and for most basic navigation equipment. to carry a z-card if they are in­ BilI (H.R. 1915) calls for all boat­ off the coast of San Juan, P.R. and the public traveling in and over The Coast Guard is authorized to volved in the safe operation of men sailing on inland waterways spilled 600,000 gallons of oil, these waterways." modify or add to this list of equip­ the vessel. vessels of more than five gross fouling pristine beaches and kill­ ment if the needs of a particular tons to hold Coast Guard-issued "While the requirements to Subject to inspection ing a variety of fish and wildlife. area dictate. obtain a document are minimal, it merchant mariner documents. "Traffic on our waterways, If enacted, the Towing Safety The Towing Safety Act would does provide the Coast Guard This bill was introduced by especially on crowded inland Act would make all towing ves­ require all towing vessels to be with a tool to remove incom­ Studds early last year. rivers, is increasing, and too sels that push or pull inspected operated by licensed masters and petent persons or those with sub­ The second piece of legisla­ many accidents are &e result," jarges, regardless of size or mates. These officers would have stance abuse problems from the tion before the subcommittee, the to demonstrate their proficiency industry by revoking their docu­ Towing Vessel Navigational in operating the newly required ment," noted Studds. Safety Act of 1993 (H.R. 3282), equipment. In addition, license Second, the proposed bill requires all inland waterway ves­ applicants will have to would require towing vessel sels to be equipped with marine demonstrate their shiphandling crews to consist of a minimum of charts, navigational publications, skills on a towing vessel or a 65 percent certified able bodied compass, radar and fathometer. Three months after a massive coming from the Oil Spill oil spill fouled the beaches of San Liability Trust Fund which was Rally Urges Senate Support for Striker Replacement Bill Juan, P.R., clean-up efforts still set up following the 1989 Exxon N are under way to restore the miles Vaidez oil spill in Alaska. The of affected shoreline. remaining $10 million comes Seafarers by land and sea were from the barge owner's in­ among the first to respond when surance. the non-union barge Morris J. The Coast Guard noted the Berman ran aground on a coral beach recovery effort probably reef during the pre-dawn hours of will continue into 1995. Each day January 7. The several holds on the jatrols scour up to 70 miles of barge ruptured, sending 662,000 jeachfront for tar balls and oil gallons of heavy number 6 bunker debris that have floated ashore oil in the surf toward the beaches from the reef as well as from the along San Juan's hotel row. bottom of the ocean and nearby More than 200 SIU members lagoons. Divers have been recovering working with Crowley Maritime laid containment booms around oil from these locations by using environmentally sensitive areas, vacuums. In some cases, they manned tugboats and skimmers have to physically place the oil in to capture oil before it reached the bags in order to remove it. So far, shore and helped in many other these efforts have reclaimed near­ ways. Other Seafarers aboard the ly 10,000 gallons of oil. oil spill response boat Caribbean Coast Guard officials noted Responder were called in by the their concern that warmer U.S. Coast Guard to augment the weather will loosen even more of the oil on the ocean's floor, caus­ Crowley crew. Because of the fast work by the ing it to drift ashore. No charges have been placed SIU members and others in­ volved, the Coast Guard es­ on any of the crew members timated that 336,000 gallons of aboard the Morris J. Berman or oil were captured and recovered the tugboat Emily S., which had Soafarer Durriel! Williams (in cap at right) joins other SIU members and fellow trade unionist at a before soiling the beaches. been towing the barge out of San Washington rally on March 16 calling on Congress to pass legislation to ban the practice of hiring So far, the cost of the clean-up Juan harbor. A Coast Guard in­ permanent replacements when workers stage a legitimate economic strike. The bill, known as 8.55, has neared the $70 million figure. vestigation into the accident is has passed the House of Representatives and is awaiting Senate consideration. President Clinton has Of that amount, $60 million is continuing. announced he would sign the bill when it clears Congress. Clean-up Efforts Continue Along San Juan Beaches •V flu ;• --•: �APRIL 1994 SEAFARERS LOG Mmbilstntkm's MarHnw Plan Becomes BUI 5 •/ • Secretary of Transportation Federico Pena presented to Con­ gress legislation designed not only to revitalize the U.S.-flag merchant fleet but also supply the funding mechanism to do so. , The Maritime Security and Trade Act of 1994 (H.R. 4003) calls for a 10-year, $1 billion Maritime Security Program which would begin during Fiscal Year 1995. Pena originally had outlined the program in February at the AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department executive board meeting. He formally introduced the legislation at a press con­ ference on March 10. (See story below.) The new bill replaces H.R. 2151 as the legislation Congress By Fiscal Year 1998, the pay­ carried aboard tankers.' will consider in the debate for ments would be reduced to $2 To become part of the maritime revitalization. While million per ship per year until the Maritime Security Program, H.R. 2151 (which passed the program concludes at the end of companies would agree to make House of Representatives in a Fiscal Year 2004. The ad­ their ships available or provide 347-65 bipartisan show of sup­ ministration estimates 52 vessels, space on board the vessels for the port in November) outlined the each flying the U.S. flag and car­ Defense Department during na­ proposals for helping the U.S.- rying American crews, would be tional emergencies. The vessels flag merchant fleet, it contained involved in the program. have to remain active in foreign no funding mechanism. H.R. 4003 proposes to pay for commerce and can be no more In offering the bill to the the program through an increase than 15 years old. House Merchant Marine Sub­ in tonnagefees which would raise Legislation Schedule committee on March 17, Pena approximately $100 million a said, "This legislation is designed year. The duties for entering a The House subcommittee is to maintain a modem American U.S. port from a nearby Western expected to hold another hearing merchant fleet, ensure continuing Hemisphere foreign port would on H.R. 4003 before it goes to the American presence in the go from nine cents per registered full Merchant Marine and transportation of our intemationa tonnage to 24 cents. For those Fisheries Committee. Should it House Merchant Marine Subcom­ commerce and provide adequate sailing to America from outside be approved by the. committee, it mittee Chairman William Lipinski sealift for national emergencies." that region, the fee would go from would be debated and voted upon (D-lll.) states the bill demonstrates Subcommittee Chairman Wil­ 27 cents to 71 cents. The current by the full House of Repre­ the president's commitment to liam Lipinski (D-Ill.) added, "We practice of limiting collections to sentatives. maritime revitalization. Once the House approves the are encouraged by the Clinton the ship's first five visits to the Once passed by both bodies, administration's initiative to cre­ U.S. per year will be retained. bill, it will go before the Senate which will have the right to ate a reform proposal and to in­ The administration estimated Merchant Marine Subcommittee, clude the program in the that the tonnage fee increase then the Senate Commerce Com­ amend the original bill, and all president's budget. It is an impor­ would relate to an increase of 38 mittee, Science and Transporta­ amendments are agreed to, it tant step and a courageous move, cents per passenger for a cruise tion Committee before being would then go to the president for his signature. given the current fiscal climate, ticket and a penny per barrel of oil debated by the full Senate. and it deserves our gratitude and support." Gradual Implementation If passed by Congress and signed into law, funding for the program would begin October 1 No agreement was reached shipbuilding assistance program Korea and Taiwan also limit their and would be implemented on a among the shipbuilding nations and has been pushing the talks for domestic coastal trade to ships gradual basis. Those companies of the world in the latest round of the last five years, other OECD that fly their flags. In a resolution passed by the Transportation Secretary with ships included in the pro­ talks to eliminate that industry's nations claim America should gram during the first three years AFL-CIO Maritime Trades surrender the Jones Act before Federico Pena explains the Clin­ unfair government subsidies. ton maritime revitalization pro­ would receive $2.5 million per Department (MTD) at its annual The breakup means the United they will consider eliminating gram to the House Merchant vessel per year that they are part States will remain the only major their payments. The U.S. executive board meeting in Marine Subcommittee. of the program. shipbuilding nation that does not negotiators stood firm and February to provide an even keel provide assistance to its domestic refused to allow the nation's for shipbuilding around the cabotage law to be placed on the world, the body noted nations in­ industry. volved in the OECD talks have The Organization for table for discussion. (The Jones Act is the name not been trying to, reach a con­ Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) sponsored given to a 1920 law that limits the clusion, but "have used these the week-long talks in March at carriage of trade between U-S. negotiations to maintain their un­ Representatives from embraces the administration's its headquarters in Paris. Among ports to U.S.-crewed, U.S.- fair advantage." maritime labor, the chairmen of maritime security program as an the nations taking part were the owned and U.S.-built vessels.) (The MTD is made up of 28 the House and Senate merchant important step toward the United States, Japan, South However, many of the nations port councils and 42 affiliated marine committees and the head revitalization of the American Korea, members of the European who object to the Jones Act fail to unions representing eight million of the Maritime Administration merchant marine Union and the Nordic countries. include their own cabotage laws in workers.) "President Clinton's program (MarAd) expressed their support the negotiations about subsidies. Talking Since 1989 Loan Programs Vary for the Clinton administration's is a breakthrough. It represents A report released by the U.S. The OECD negotiations, Besides the cabotage laws, maritime revitalization legisla­ the first time in more than two which are held under the auspices Maritime Administration in Oc­ many of these same nations pro­ tion, which was introduced by decades that an administration is tober 1993 pointed out that Of the United Nations, began in vide a wide array of funding sour­ Transportation Secretary willing to follow through with a among the 57 nations surveyed, a 1989 as a means for governments ces to subsidizes their shipbuilding total of 44 have cabotage laws. Federico Pena at a March 10 press real program to stop the decline of to find a way to end shipbuilding activities. According to the report, the U.S.-flag fleet and to begin The nations include many on the conference in Washington. subsidies and place construction government runs a Japan's Pena noted that even the intro­ the process of developing federal European and Asian continents. for new vessels as well as repair development bank and credit cor­ For instance, the report stated duction of the Maritime Security maritime programs that will of older ships on a level playing poration which, with the nation's Germany reserves its coastal and Trade Act of 1994 (H.R. reinvigorate the domestic mer­ field. trade only to those vessels within Ministry of Transportation, assists 4003) would not have been pos­ chant marine." The United States eliminated Following Kirkland to the its national-flag fleet. Others in vessel construction and research. sible without the efforts of AFLfunding for its construction dif­ Meanwhile, Germany has Europe with cabotage laws in­ CIO President Lane Kirkland, podium was SIU President Sacco. ferential subsidy program in He thanked Pena for his efforts in agreed to the European Union direc­ clude Belgium, Finland, France, SIU President Michael Sacco, 1981. The program provided Italy, Spain and Sweden. offering the bill as well as the tive to limit shipyard assistance to U.S. Rep. Gerry Studds (Dfunds to help defray the costs of members of Congress present for nine percent for direct and indirect On the other side of the world, Mass), Sen. John Breaux (D-La.) the higher safety and work stand­ Japan excludes any foreign-flag aid. Yet, that nation received per­ their support in helping the U.S.and MarAd's Albert Herberger. ards required on American-built vessels from plying its domestic mission to grant up to a 36 percent He added that his office is count­ flag merchant fleet. House Merchant Marine and vessels. Since that Reagan ad­ trade. Crews must be all Japanese subsidy through 1993 for construc­ ing on them "to guide this legisla­ Fisheries Chairman Studds noted ministration move, more than and the ships involved in the trade tion contract^ to yards in the tion to the president's desk." 180,000 shipyard and related in­ The secretary called H.R. he could not imagine "the last dustry jobs have been lost in the must be Japanese owned. South former East Germany. 4003 "a comprehensive package remaining superpower on this country. Earth without ships flying its flag, of maritime revitalization that either to carry its trade in times of OECD Chairman Staffan will accomplish three goals: It Sohlman of Sweden had stated peace or its troops and personnel will strengthen U.S. presence in in joing into the negotiations that if of national emergency international commerce, it will andtimes no agreement was reached by the the capacity to build maintain a modem U.S. merchant thosewithout end of the week, no further talks vessels. fleet, [and] it will provide sealift would be held. However, news "That is quite simply and quite The Seafarers hiring hall in Brooklyn will be moving over the capability for national emergen­ literally reports after the meeting had unthinkable," he added. weekend of April 16-17 to its new location at 635 Fourth Avenue. cies. The chairman of the Senate ended noted Sohlman was con­ As written, the bill will pro­ Merchant Marine Subcommittee sidering calling yet another The new hall, which is one block from the present location vide $1 billion over a 10-year said he would try to find addition­ negotiating found in April or and on the same side of the street, used to house the American period for up to 52 U.S.-flag, al dollars for the program through Vlay. Maritime Officers (then called District 2-MEBA) welfare of­ American-crewed merchant ves­ the Pentagon budget. "Those reports stated some fices. It has a blue-and-white facade and is three stories tall. sels involved in foreign trade. It is "It is appropriate and proper, I jrogress had been made concemSIU members will be able to conduct aU routine businessscheduled to begin during Fiscal think, for the Department of ng the way Japan funds its shipshipping and registratidn as well as filing for vacations and Year 1995. Defense also to contribute to the )uilding programs. But another acquiring medical fom#—at 635 Fourth Avenue beginning 'Breakthrough' Initiative funding of that program," stated obstacle, that of dumping newly Monday, April 18. Although all union operations will be shifted In addressing the press con­ Sen. Breaux. "I think that effort l)uilt ships onto the world market to the new site, the phone number for the SIU in New York will ference, Kirkland (who sailed as will allow us to make this pro­ at prices lower than cost, still remain the same at (718) 499-6600. a mate during World War II), gram even bigger, better iand remained. Even though the U.S. ended its stated, "Labor as a whole stronger." Shipbuilding Talks Come Undone Europe, Asia Refuse to Halt Industry Subsidies •'vi®.';- Congress, Labor Voice Support For Revitalization Program Brookiyn Hiring Hail Move This MonUi 1 �• V •• -•. / 6 ••v-^v ^ _ v. \ \ ^.•7 •,/•. i^ i^;ilSil^Silfk My i ^rjisEWisrweFe® • ?"• p. :"' APRIL 1094 SEAFARERS LOG ^•''- # ^1? • •••^v^--;• Kl?!,' .. ;,® Photo by Jerry Bielicki The Mackinaw, the U.S. Coast Guard's largest Icebreaker on the Great Lakes, received funding for another year. K-PSh Cmgress Funds hx Cutter For t^xrathms Uriwi^A Year The U.S. Coast Guard ice cutter Mackinaw, the largest icebreaker stationed on the Great Lakes, will continue to keep vessels moving into 1995. Seafarers on the Great Lakes are familiar with the Mackinaw's efforts to clear paths through ice that forms both early and late in the sailing season, so that vessels can deliver their cargoes safely. The Mackinaw, set for decommissioning this May, has been allocated funding by U.S. Representative Bob Carr (D-Mich.), chairman of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Transportation which oversees funding for the U.S. Coast Guard. Carr proposed to fund the Mackinaw for another year. During that time, Carr, Rep. Bart Stupak (D-Mich.) and the Coast Guard will work together to figure out a viable, long-term alternative for the ice cutter. "We have just been through one of the coldest winters in recent memory. Lake Superior froze over for the first time since 1978. Only the Mackinaw is powerful enough to clear this year's ice," stated Carr when he announced the ice cutter would remain on the Lakes for another season. The opening of the 1994 shipping season on the Great Lakes found formations of sheet ice in some harbors of more than 40 inches thick, and "windrows" (slabs of broken ice piled atop one another by the wind) out in the Lakes will be between six to eight feet thick. "The Mackinaw is the only icebreaker on the Lakes that can open the shipping channels after a winter such as this," noted an official for the Lake Carriers' Association, which monitors the action of U.S.-flag shipping on the Lakes. Seafarers OK Contract For Philly-Gamden Ferry "%i-. 'I' The Riverbus crosses the Delaware River every day of the year to transport passengers to Camden, N.J. • Seafarers who crew the ferry which runs between Philadelphia and Camden, N.J. across the Delaware River have over­ whelmingly ratified a new 3-year contract which includes im­ proved medical benefits. The new pact for crewmembers aboard the Riverbus, nick­ named the "Delawhale," covers wages, medical benefits (includ­ ing new coverage for dependents) and work rules. The agreement went into effect April 1. Representatives for the SIU and Riverbus Inc. met at the Philadelphia union hall on March 11 and 12. Delegates to the talks included Captains Robert Papale and Mickey McGovern and Deckhands Lee Poczylowski and Tony Lopez. "I think that it is a fair contract that works for both the union and the company. We got what we wanted," Captain Mickey Mc­ Severe Ice Buiidiip Stalls Start of '94 Lakes Season The most brutal winter in 16 years has produced formidable ice fields diroughout the Great Lakes and resulted in a delay in 11tout plans for many Seafarers who sail on the region's vessels. In some areas around the Great Lakes, more than 40 inches of ice have been encountered, and windrows," slabs of broken ice piled on top of one another by the wind and melted together by oc­ casional sunshine, are up to eight feet thick. SlU-crewed cement carriers, traditionally the first vessels of the season to sail, already have by Jerry Bietlcki lost between 12 and 15 days of American Steamship's St. Clair has not establishedPhoto a fixed sailing sailing tirrie due to conditions on date because of problems with Icy conditions on the Lakes. the Lakes. Several have begun service but have encountered sail across Lake Superior, problems due to the severe ice. straight path through Whitefish Whitefish Bay and through the Bay in order for the vessels to The Alpena and J.A.W. Soo Locks to get to Detroit. Iglehart had smooth sailing from pass safely through the locks, Nekvasil told the Seafarers LOG Cargo Demand High their winter ports of Cleveland Despite the severe icing condi­ and Detroit, respectively, until in late March. "Right now most vessels are tions, there is a demand for vital entering Thunder Bay near Al­ not coming south on Lake Supe­ raw materials. A recent survey by pena, Mich, to pick up their car­ rior because it just is not possible the LCA indicates that steel­ goes when they became stuck in for them to make it through. makers and power companies more than 36 inches of ice. It took When they do start to make ef­ needed approximately 500,000 the cement carriers 43 hours to forts, that is when the trouble will net tons of iron ore and coal from travel eight miles into port. begin." The Paul H. Townsendhadnoi Lake Superior ports prior to April He added that, at the time, it 1. The American steel industry encountered problems on lower Lake Michigan on its route to was not clear if even the Mack­ has been operating at nearly 88 Chicago, Milwaukee and St. inaw, the largest and most power­ percent of capacity during the Joseph, Mich, to begin the ful ice- breaker on the Great winter, so low inventories and resupply of the constmction in- Lakes, would be able to cut a clear strong order books require that dustiy. The last SlU-crewed In­ path for the ships coming south resupply begin as soon as pos­ land Lakes Management cement through Lake Superior. Nekvasil noted that other than sible. carrier, the S.T. Crapo, was ex­ "Most of the Great Lakes ves­ pected to begin sailing early this Lake Superior, the most severe sels will not be able to immedi­ icing conditions were being month. ately meet the cargo demand. The The SlU-crewed Medusa reported in harbors and inlets. cement carriers, typically the first Seafarers were able to crew ChallengerwWl not sail from Mil­ out, already have lost a significant waukee until the first few weeks American Steamship Company's amount of time. This is that much of this month—-which is highly Buffalo on its original fitout date more cargo that we will have to unusual for the Cement Transit of March 21. The vessel loads move during the regular season," Company vessel. "We are usually iron ore in Lorain, Ohio and off­ stated Nekvasil. one of the first vessels out on the loads in Cleveland. Other He added that this type of Lakes. The ice is vety bad around American Steamship Company cargo demand would have put the Straits of Mackinaw and the vessels had preliminary sailing many of the U.S.-flag lakers, in­ Soo Locks. Our plant is in Char­ dates set but were not able to con­ cluding many of the 1,000 footlevoix, Mich, where there are firm them because of the condi­ long carriers, back in service reports of heavy icing, so we are tions. "We are using caution in fit­ before the beginning of this just waiting it out and hoping that the ice breaks up more around the ting out and will not sail in areas month. "We will have to stay on ports," said a company spokesman. where we have received reports top of everything to deliver the According to Glen Nekvasil of of severe ice conditions," stated a 108 to 110 million tons of cargo the Lake Carriers' Association company spokesperson. Accord­ to break even with last year." The Great Lakes Basin is the (LCA), an organization of U.S.- ing to the company, the areas to flag ship companies on the Lakes, avoid are the Soo Locks and heart of the American steel in­ the ice on Lake Superior, was so Whitefish Bay area, Escanaba, dustry, hosting more than 70 per­ bad that the Soo Locks in Sault Mich, and Bums Harbor, Mich. cent of the nation's steelmaWng Ste. Marie, Mich, opened on The William J. McCarthy Jr., capacity. The production of one March 25 but vessels could not also an SlU-crewed American ton of steel requires about 1.35 begin to transit through until the Steamship vessel, was scheduled tons of iron ore, plus some quan­ following weeks as the ice broke to deliver 60,000 tons of coal to tities of fluxstone and coal. As a up and made the transfer safer. Detroit Edison before April 1 but result, iron ore, coal and stone are "The Coast Guard cutter had not begun to sail as of press the three largest commodities Mackinaw will have to cut a time. The 1,000-foot carrier must moved on the Great Lakes. Govern told a reporter for the Seafarers LOG. Voting by the SIU members took place in the unipn hall fol­ lowing the negotiation sessions. "Overall I am satisfied. It is a great company to work for and we have union support in everything we need. I love my job and think that it is a great operation," stated Lopez. The union began representing the feny crew in March 1992, shortly after the vessel went into service. The lOO-foot feny provides daily passenger ferry service be­ tween Penn's Landing, niiladelphia's waterfront park and Cooper's Feny in Camden. The feny service is scheduled to run every day of the year from 7 a.m. to 6:45 p.m. weekdays, 9 a.m. to 8:45 p.m. Saturdays and 9 a.m. to 5:45 p.m. Sundays. Hours are expanded by Jeny Bielicki Seafarers chip ice from the decks of this Great Lakes ore carrier which remains frozen in port during the summo- months. •I }•• ^ y- •. �• ,i ' »riS=ES.'i:,. 1 -V - .:%J- APRIL 1994 ' SEAFARERS LOG 7 Liberty Ships Will Commemorate Invasion ^Last Convoy^ to Rendezvous in Normandy The World War II veteran Liberty ships Jeremiah O 'Brien and John W. Brown and the Victory ship Lane Vic­ tory — fully crewed — are scheduled to play a major role in the commemorative activities for the 50th anniversary of DDay (June 6). The vessels will rendezvous early next month in the port of New York, then will proceed in "The Last Convoy" to a British port and eventually across the English Channel to Normandy in time for the commemoration of the Allies' crossing to rescue Europe from the Nazis 50 years ago. More than 150 retired merchant mariners and Navy gunners were selected from several hundred applicants to voluntarily crew the ships for this his­ toric voyage, which has widespread sup­ port from the U.S. government and from the American maritime community, in-^ eluding the SIU. Volunteers have res­ tored the vessels to fully functional status and are preparing them for U.S. Coast Guard and American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) inspections scheduled for this month. "The Coast Guard and the ABS have been working closely with us to help us meet the requirements," said Rick Bauman, a Chesapeake Bay pilot who will sail as third mate aboard the Brown. "Final inspection shouldn't be a prob­ lem. The riveted hull is the one big-tick­ et item — how many rivets we have to replace." Each vessel will have three separate crews, with an average age of about 70: one for the voyage overseas, one to main­ tain the ships while they are docked for commemorative activities, and one for the return trip. A physician will be present on each ship at all times. The ceremonies at Normandy will fea­ ture dignitaries from all the European Union and the U.S., including President Clinton. Some 50,000 American veterans also are expected to be on hand for the aerial displays, concerts and many other related activities. Seafarers at D-Day Thousands of SIU members played important roles in the invasion of Nor­ mandy, which opened the way for Western Europe to escape Nazi domina­ tion. They crewed merchant ships which carried troops and materiel to D-Day, and in the 109 days afterward, they helped land 2.5 million troops, 17 mil­ lion tons of ammunition and supplies and a half-million trucks and tanks. During the war. Seafarers crewed many of the more than 2,700 Liberty ships which were constructed during the early to mid-1940s. The vessels, each weighing approximately 7,200 tons and 441 feet in length, were vital to the war effort. They were relatively inexpensive to build (about $2 million apiece), and their uncomplicated design allowed for quick construction. A typical Liberty ship crew was com­ posed of 45 merchant mariners and.25 Navy Armed Guards. One ship could lift 10,000 tons of cargo; together, from 1942 to 1945, the vessels carried more than 100,000 million tons of cargo. Restored to its original wartime appearance, the Jeremiah O'Brien will join the John W. Brown and the Lane Victory to form the "Last Convoy" to Normandy. John W. Brown The Brown was one of the first Liber­ ty ships built, and it originally launched from Baltimore in September 1942. Capable of making 11 knots, the ship participated in the invasions of Norman­ dy and Salerno, as well as many other dangerous missions. After the war, it served as a nautical training device for the New York City school systemi. In 1986, the ship was transferred by the Maritime Administra­ tion (MarAd) to Project Liberty Ship, a non-profit organization based in Bal­ timore. It became home to the Museum of the Naval Armed Guard and numerous other displays, and more than 160,000 man-hours of volunteer labor were donated to refurbish the vessel. The Brown also was placed on the National Register of Historic Places. When the vessel heads for Norman­ dy, it will carry a cargo of teddy bears to be delivered to orphanages and to disad­ vantaged children in the United Kingdom, France and Russia. The fuzzy cargo "will warm the hearts of thousands of children over­ seas," said Brown Captain Brian Hope, who added that donations are welcome. "And it will demonstrate that the American merchant fleet can still be a force for world peace." made seven voyages during the war, operating in both the Atlantic and Pacific theaters. The ship was mothballed for more than 30 years after the war, but eventual­ ly was saved as a memorial. It was recon­ ditioned in '79 and declared a national historic landmark in 1980. Operated under the authority of MarAd and as­ sociated with the San Francisco Maritime National Historic Park, the O'­ Brien also required hundreds of thousands of man-hours for reconditioning. Lane Victory The Lane Victory operated not only during World War II, but also in Korea and Vietnam. Built in 1945 in San Pedro, Calif., the vessel was operated as a commercial cargo ship by American President Lines for many years, then by Pacific Coast Transport Co. In 1988, Congress donated the Lane Victory to the United States Merchant Marine Veterans of World War II. During the ensuing years, volunteers res­ tored the ship to steaming condition. Financing for The Last Convoy primarily came from federal support and private donations. The Merchant Marine Endowment Act was passed by Congress late last year; the bill called for the Brown, O'Brien and Lane Victory to receive proceeds from the sale (for scrap) of government-owned ships. That money was used for refurbishing, and donations are being put toward deferring operating costs. However, each ship still is short of operating funds. "We're about 85 per­ cent of the way to being completely funded, but we still need help," Bauman said of the Brown. The other vessels reportedly are in similar financial shape. If a person or organization wishes to make a contribution, they may contact The Last Convoy—Normandy '94 at (212) 363-4044. Teddy bears may be sent to the Brown at Project Liberty Ship, P.O. Box 25846, Highlandtown Station, Baltimore, MD 21224-0846. The O'Brien will depart from San Francisco on April 14 and later will join the other two ships in New York, some­ time in early May. Jeremiah O'Brien Built in the New England Shipbuild­ ing Corporation yards in South Portland, Maine, the O'Brien launched in 1943. It *Red' Recalls D-Day Scene ••'Ti •" '•-' • Retired SIU Vice President Angus "Red" Campbell was one of many Seafarers who took part in the historic invasion of Normandy on June 6, 1944. "It was better than any John Wayne movie," said Campbell. "I was on the Thomas Wolfe, a Liberty ship, and we left New York in April. We discharged cargo in Wales. Then we went to Scot­ land to take on some preparatory gear for the invasion, along with three British aircraft spotters. Eventually we loaded in Southampton, England, about a week before the invasion. Then we followed the mob." He described the scene at Norman­ dy as "remarkable. There were hundreds of airplanes, battleships, cruisers,... A week later, you were still getting shell fire from the 88 mil­ limeters, from the pillboxes on the beach, which were about 12 feet thick. 'There was no problem with the air, but the water was filled with acoustic mines, which are drawn by sound into the propeller. There were lots of bodies in the water: soldiers and sailors "We discharged the cargo at the beachhead for 90 cents an hour. ; • One of the first Liberty ships built, the John W. Brown now houses the Museum of the Maval Armed Guard and other displays in Baltimore, Md. Retired SIU Vice President Angus "Red" Campbell remembers the Normandy in­ vasion as "remarkable." Seamen also were required to assist the gun crews. So in addition to your fire and boat station, everybody on board had a gun assignment. There were 24hour-a-day lookout assignments, in­ cluding the crow's nest." Campbell added that there was a humorous side to the voyage. "Our engineroom crewmembers basically all came from Georgia and Florida. The people in the deck and steward depart­ ments were from New York, so the Civil War also raged for the full 12 months of our voyage." ^ he Lane Victory operated not only during World War II but also in Korea and Vietnam. She was restored to steaming condition by volunteers and will fly the Stars and Stripes at the commemorative activities taking place in Normandy on June 6. ; •; ft/::.;'^ •••' /ft ' W^'v. - / if 1 •M; �f ' . •p I -?'4% 8 SEAFMB8SL0G APRIL 1994 Newly issued Benzene Cards Clarify Renewal Dates Seafarers who sail aboard physical shape to wear protective tankers, barges or other vesse masks. where they are required to ho! While the benzene, clearance documents indicating clearance documents are not needed at the to work with and around the time of registration, they are re chemical benzene and produo quired at the time of claiming a containing benzene will be issued job on a tanker or related vessel. newly designed cards beginnin Seafarers can be tested at al this month. Seafarers Welfare Plan clinics The new benzene clearance Only Seafarers who wish to claim card indicates the exact expira­ jobs on tankers must take these tion date of both the benzene two tests; they are, however Complete Blood Count (CBC available to all members. test, which is good for one year, "Although members can get and the breathing test known as the testing done at any time, we the Pulmonary Function Tes would like to have the testing (PFT), which remains in effect for done at the time of his or her three years. aimual physical," noted Miller. According to Dr. Kenneth When in the union hall, mem­ Miller, medical director for the bers who plan to ship on tankers Seafarers Welfare Plan, the should schedule appointments to former benzene clearance cards take the benzene-related tests at created confusion about the date the nearest clinic. for Seafarers to be re-tested. "The Found In Petroleum old benzene cards stated in fine Benzene is found in many print that the member had been petroleum-based substances— tested in the last 12 months and crude oil, gasoline, jet fuel, the date the test was administered kerosene, petrochemicals—ant It did not, however, have an exaci date for renewal," Miller ex­ the chemical is used to manufac­ ture many products. Tankers and plained. "The blue clinic card had the tank barges often carry benzene PFT expiration date and that the or substances containing ben­ member was benzene-cleared but zene. Repeated exposure to benzene still did not indicate a date that the can pose health risks. But by clearance expired. It became monitoring a Seafarer's blood common mistake for Seafarers to count to ensure that exposure has assume that because the PFT had not caused any health problems, to be renewed every three years, and by checking his or her so did the benzene cards," he said. respiratory health in order to determine if he or she can wear a The new blue Seafarers clinic card (left) indicates the card's expiration date OFrtlTS"front. The reverse protective mask, these risks can shows that the member is cleared for working with and around the chemical benzene, but It does not pave a benzene expiration date. The yellow benzene clearance card will remain the same on the front, >e minimized. but an expiration date for benzene clearance and for the PFT test has been added to the back. The CBC test studies the make-up of an individual's blood. The blood test is required because rom the immediate and long- also are required to identify all Seafarers work on tankers meet penzene can affect and impair the ;erm health problems associated benzene areas through posted these Coast Guard regulations. The federal agency also has work of red blood cells which with benzene, which can be ab­ signs. sorbed into the human Additionally, the Coast Guard exposure limits that are cany oxygen; white blood cells bloodstream through respiration rules require mariners working monitored closely. The limit is set which fight infections; and and skin contact. with and around the substance to at one part of benzene per million platelets which help the blood to As part of these rules, tanker be tested to ensure that they can parts of air (1 ppm) averaged over clot. and tank vessel operators are reuse the protective masks and that an eight-hour period. The short In the PFT test, the piember blows through a tube into a uired to carry on board these they are not at risk for any of the term exposure limit, which can­ machine that registers breathing vessels protective equipment, in­ illnesses that repeated exposure not be repeated more than four capacity. This test determines the cluding breathing masks, to benzene can cause. The tests times a day, is 5 ppm averaged type of respirator a member has to which—when worn—minimize conducted by the SIU clinics and during a 15-minute period. An wear when handling or working the exposure to the chemical. The the shipping rule which requires hour wait must be taken between tanker and tank vessel operators that only benzene-cleared such exposures. Seafarers learn the proper way to around benzene. The federal regulations note use anti-benzene exposure equipment at the Lundeberg that minimizing contact with ben­ zene is important because shortSchool in Piney Point, Md. In order to clear up this erm exposure to the chemical has misunderstanding, the medical been found to cause light-headeddepartment has removed the PFT ness and irritation to the eyes, nose and respiratory tract. Longexpiration date from the blue term exposure to the chemical can A measure which would require that all U.S. The General Accounting Office (GAG) recently clinic cards and added it to the result in various blood disorders employers provide medical benefits to their testified before the House that there is "no evidence back of the yellow benzene card ranging from anemia (a low red employees (known as employer mandate) cleared a that the employer mandate resulted in large disrup­ along with an exact benzene ex­ cell count) to leukemia (a fatal House subcommittee last month in one of the first tions in Hawaii's small business sector," and that piration date. Although the clinic cancer of the blood cells). hurdles facing the Clinton administration's most small businesses in Hawaii considered their card will still state that a member proposed health care reform. health care costs to be manageable. That defies the Cards Provide Proof has benzene clearance, only the In a 6-5 vote on March 15, the House Ways and warnings from groups claiming to represent The Coast Guard is respon­ yellow benzene card will have an Means Health Subcommittee rejected an attempt to American small businesses which oppose the sible for inspecting tankers and expiration date. soften the employer mandate. The vote was taken employer mandate. The GAG's finding that "more tank barges to see that only ben­ Implemented In 1992 on an alternative reform plan introduced by Rep. than three-fourths of the small businesses surveyed zene-cleared personnel are work­ In 1992, the U.S. Coast Guard ing in benzene-restricted areas. Pete Stark (D-Calif.). reported that the mandate has had little or no effect The employer mandate strongly is supported by on employment levels, salaries or other benefits" implemented a hazardous The federal agency is authorized materials regulation that declared to issue fines if it discovers un­ the AFL-CIG and is a main provision in the reform also contradicts claims against the employer man­ seamen will not be dispatched to authorized individuals working plan proposed by President Clinton. Both the date. president's plan and the one introduced by Stark Compared with the rest of the states, Hawaii has tankers, barges or other affected with or around the chemical. meet the AI^-CIO's requirements that health care lower health insurance premiums, and those vessels unless they have been The benzene clearance cards benzene cleared jjer the regula­ issued by SIU clinics include in­ reform include comprehensive coverage for every premiums are increasing at a slower rate than those tion. formation indicating the member U.S. citizen, no taxation of benefits, quality as­ on the mainland. In addition, premiums for small The Coast Guard regulations is up-to-date on the benzene re- surance and a fairly financed employer mandate. businesses in Hawaii generally are not notably dif­ The full Ways and Means Committee is ferent from those for large businesses. require operators of such vessels c uirements and is able to satisfy scheduled to take up the issue following Congress' to provide protective equipment Coast Guard investigators. "It is Choice In Clinton Plan Easter recess, which began March 24 and lasts to any mariner handling benzene "or this reason that we would like Another key issue in the debate over health care or benzene-containing materials. 1 of our members—in every through April 11. reform is preserving a patient's ability to choose his Proof In Hawaii When Seafarers throw in for a department—to have this docu­ or her own doctor or health care provider. tanker job, they must present the ment in their possession when The labor movement and many others who sup­ Proponents of the president's Health Security dispatcher with documents in­ aboard such vessels," stated port the employer mandate point out that such a Act maintain that the legislation not only would system already is working efficiently in the U.S. ensure such choice, but also actually may expand a dicating they have met, the Coast Miller. A list of Coast Guard benzene Hawaii is^the/only state that requires employers to patient's options. As recently as 1988, almost 90 Guard-mandated physical criteria to work on vessels carrying ben­ exposure rules was first an­ provide health insurance, and it also has public percent of employers offered health plans under zene or benzene-containing nounced in 1991. The rules are programs to guarantee coverage for all residents which workers had their choice of any doctor. Last year, only 60 percent offered this option. products and that they are in desigined to protect mariners (including those who are not employed). House Panel Calls on Employers To Provide Health Care BeneHts �APRIL 1994 SEAFARERS LOG 9 Bosun Retires After 50 Years at Sea After sailing for five decades, Recertified Bosun Robert Schwarz signed off the LNG Leo for the last time and headed for his native Alabama. Brother Schwarz joined the union in 1943 in Mobile, Ala. He first sailed on theJo/in F. Whitten with what was then known as a "trip card." The Union Sulfur Steamship Co. vessel took a cargo of bauxite (which is used to make aluminum) to Georgetown, Guyana and Trinidad. Following that initial trip, he was issued his first union book in Mobile. In 1974, he successfully completed the bosun recertification program at the Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md. Besides the Leo, Schwarz has sailed on other Energy Transportation Co. vessels such as the Aries, Gemini, Taurus mdi Aquarius."I have liked all of my SIU ships, but the LNG ships are a favorite of mine because they are good, clean ships that carry a clean cargo," Schwarz told a reporter for the Seafarers LOG. "Piney Point is a wonderful exBosun Robert Schwarz signs off from the L/S/G Leo following 50 years at sea with the SIU. perience. If the young sailors didn't have it, many of them would not have a chance in this industry. I have seen a lot of changes in my time with this union, and I think that it will continue to progress a long way into the fu­ ture," Schwarz noted. "I always sailed with good crews," the bosun recalled. "I began sailing in World War II and never had a ship sunk out from under me. All in all, it went good. The 50 years went fast." Seafarers aboard the Leo bid Schwarz a formal union farewell with a cookout and pool party where the entire crew came together to decorate, eat and give their best wishes to the bosun. He received special gifts from the SIU crew as well as from the of­ ficers. 'This is one of the very best crews that I have ever had the pleasure to work with. I really can't say enough about how dedicated and professional they were," he said. OS Christopher Cobb sailed aboard the Leo on the bosun's final trip and noted, "He was really a great guy to work with." Since signing off the Leo, Schwarz it was the easiest type of farm for a Seafarer to maintain. He grows' the pines to sell to paper mills that turn the wood into various paper products. "I was only coming home for four months at a time, and pine trees can grow without constant attention. In those four months, I stayed busy doing everything I couldn't do while at sea. Now that I am no longer sailing and have more time on my hands, I need to lay out my work differently," Schwarz said. He added that he was bom across the street in a farm house that his sister now maintains. His father, the original owner of the farm, was a small crop farmer. His sister still farms the land and has various types of livestock. "I plan to sit back and enjoy it all now. I'm just going to take it easy and see how the wind blows. I never think of it as being 50 years at a job. I just enjoyed sailing," Schwarz concluded. ••.g: w il. �• / 10 v'v •,'•• ••.• - APRIL 1994 SEAFARERS LOG Seafarers and Families Can Vacation at Piney Point P Electrician Joe Vazquez and family relax by pool at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point. Vazquez brings his family to Piney Point each summer for vacation. "We wouldn't miss it," he recently wrote. I .;«iS tfi |T >'''."'"C;;. 7 V'-i ^rSSS=SS?3^-=-"" 'v-' ,a„,a.adenethatou,schcoloKers. forward Below: Recertified Steward Becl^ Sleeper and family enjoy a dip in the spacious swim­ ming pool outside the training and recreation center. Piney Point also offers many other vacation attractions for Seafarers and their ifamilies. j^OI . >. ^ to mn in U.e sun. ^ V" icturesque and safe surroundings, tranquility, wide-ranging facilities and close proximity to the nation's capital are just a few of the things that make Piney Point, Md. so tempting as a vacation resort. , Seafarers and SIU pensioners won t want to miss out on the chance this year to utilize the Paul Hall Center as a vacation site for themselves and their families. All Seafarers have to do is complete the application below and mail it. Last month's issue of the Seafarers LOG provided an in-depth look at the many attrac­ tive features of Piney Point. This month, here's what a couple of members who have vacationed at the Paul Hall Center have to say: Electrician Joe Vazquez: "I've been an SIU member since 1970, and I enjoy bring­ ing the family to Piney Point for a week-ortwo-stay each summer. We relax and see some familiar union brothers, and oc­ casionally even attend meetings that affect the direction the industry is taking. I like for my family to see the camaraderie that our school offers. "The staff there does a great job, and I'm once again looking forward to fun in the sun, R&R and maybe even some crabbing this year." Bill Mitchell, Retired Captain: "Vacationing at Piney Point always is a pleasant experience. During the past t^ee years, my family, ^ong with other retired SIU members and their families, have taken advantage of staying at the beautiful facility located on the Chesapeake Bay. I like the fact that you can enjoy total peace and quiet, but also have available a variety of ac­ tivities such as boating, fishing, swimming, tennis, arts and crafts, and more. The rooms are very comfortable, the dining is fabulous and the staff is courteous. We look forward to returning to Piney Point." There you have it, in the members' own words. This year, write your own memory. Clip the coupon below and mail it to Piney Point as a first step to secure your reserva­ tion for this summer. Piney Point has something for everyone — and it's only available to Seafarers and their families. UNION MEMBER VACATION RATES A vacation stay at the Lundeberg School Is limited to two weeks per family. •'•;• . .• < $40.40/day Member $ 9.45/day Spouse $ 9.45/day Child Note: There is no charge for children 11 years of age or younger. Priceslisted inciude ail meals. . ••.f.'s::•:<•!."/• ^^4 SEAFARERS TRAINING & RECREATION CENTER Vacation Reservation Information Retired Captain Bill Mitchell and family sit in the poolside shade. Name: Social Security number: Book number: Address:. ;\"7: "/ like the fact that you can enjoy total peace and quiet, but also have available a variety of activities such as boating, fishing, swimming, tennis, arts and crafts, and more." — Retired Cap/. Bill Mitchell Si 'i- Telephone niimber: Number in party / ages of children, if applicable: Date of arrival: 1st choice: Date of departure: 2nd choice: Sid choice: Stay Is limited to 2 weeks. ___ Send this completed application to the Seafarers Training & Recreation Center, P. a. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674. I®;,: I •' �tr""".' JU^m 1994 SEAFARERS LOG 11 Members of Newest RecerRRed Steward Class Seize Their Chance to Upgrade Culinary SIdlls standing with SlU President Michael Sacco (third from left) moments after graduation are (from left) Skip Polzin, David Bond, Carnavius Davalie, J.D. Hopkins, German Rios and Billy Gigante. When Billy Gigante accepted his certificate last month for com­ pleting the steward recertification course at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Educa­ tion, the New York native had flnished a long but worthwhile joumey. Gigante graduated from the Lundeberg School's trainee pro­ gram in 1979 (Class No. 289), and he is believed to be the first Seafarer to work his way up from steward assistant to recertified steward while primarily sailing for military-contracted vessels based at Diego Garcia. "If you put your heart and soul into the union, you can go anywhere," Gigante, who last sailed aboard a Maersk Lines ves­ sel, said at the March membership meeting at Piney Point. "I am very grateful and very honored to have completed this program." Gigante's five classmates echoed his sentiments about the opportunities for advancement provided by the Lundeberg School. David Bond, Carnavius Davalie, German Rios, J.D. Hopkins and Donald "Skip" Polzin joined him in completing the highest curriculum available to SIU members who sail in the steward department—and in ur­ ging the trainees at the meeting to wholeheartedly apply themselves to their maritime careers. Wide-Ranging Course The galley gang upgraders ac­ tively took part in the wide-ranging, comprehensive course, which lasted five weeks. They practiced baking applications and more in the school's state-of-theart lecture/demonstration galley; earned certification in first aid, CPR and firefighting procedures; studied communications prin­ ciples; did extensive computer training using DOS, WordPerfect and various spreadsheet applica­ tions (for menu planning, requisi­ tion logging and other functions); and engaged in friendly but earnest cooking competitions. The course also included detailed studies of American Heart Association guidelines for low-fat and low-sdt cooking; a field trip to the annual Washington Food Show (a culi­ nary competition); thorough ex­ amination of ship safety and sanitation; and review of other pertinent topics. In addition,the new recertified stewards met for question-andanswer sessions with repre­ sentatives from each of the union's departments. For ex­ ample, they spoke with officials from the union's collective bar­ gaining department, from its governmental affairs department, from the welfare, vacation, train­ ing and pension funds and from iht Seafarers LOG. They also traveled to SIU headquarters in Camp Springs, Md. and to Washington, where they spoke with Maritime Trades Department Executive SecretaryTreasurer Frank Pecquex about key legislative issues which af­ fect the maritime industry. Davalie, who started sailing as a messman in 1967 and who has upgraded several times, com­ mended the Lundeberg School in­ structors—including Ed White, Kate Richardson, Byran Cummings and Don Yaney—and the entire staff at Piney Point for making his stay comfortable and facilitating good study habits. "The Lundeberg School is wonderful. It is the best place to learn about maritime," he said. "There is no union anywhere in the world that has what we have, especially a school like this." Davalie's home port is New Orleans. Even though the steward recertification course coincided with Mardi Gras, he said he would rather be in Piney Point: "I'd give up Mardi Gras any day to be here." Interacting with other upgraders, as well as with the trainees, was a highlight of being at Piney Point for Hopkins. "I think we all leam from each other, and that helps us do better at our jobs," he said. Hopkins, who sails from the port of Seattle, added that the safety and firefighting training At the graduation ceremony, David Bond noted the improvements made to the Paul Hall Center. will make him a better shipmate. Like Gigante, port-of-Seattle Seafarer Polzin emphasized the value of setting career goals and then being able to attain them. "I have reached my goal, and you can do the same," he said at the membership meeting. "The in­ structors here at Piney Point will help you accomplish your goals." Finally, Rios stated that all SIU members should seize the upgrading opportunities avail­ able at the Paul Hall Center. "I have learned so much here, and I'm grateful for the opportunity," said Rios, whose home port is San Juan. "Everyone should take ad­ vantage of it." M.: '• m.. it 'yy.''' I: Praise Facility .• Syy-^Y-.'f--'''''- • P'" . ' y} "This was a great opportunity, and we have a great school,' stated Bond, who sails from the port of Mobile, Ala. A graduate of the school in 1980, Bond noted the "remarkable" improvements in the Paul Hall Center since he last was there. At the graduation ceremony. Bond also stressed the impor­ German Rios keeps an eye on the At work in the school's galley tance of the Seafarers Political J.D. Hopkins (right) practices chest compressions as part of the CPR training faqility is Skip Polzin. Activities Donation. "Politics af­ curriculum taught by instmctor Byran Cummings (left). Observing is soup he is preparing. fects every one of us," he said. Skip Polzin. r-%m Paul Hall Center Stresses Healthy Menus •; - y0§ .,;.''-.V' Billy Gigante practices logging a mock requisition form on a computer. As more and more Americans adopt low-fat, low-salt diets, the Paul Hall Center continues teach­ ing steward department upgraders low to turn out healthier menus. For the past few years, Lun­ deberg School Instructor Ed White las taught Seafarers in the recer­ tified steward clasS about the American Heart Association's juidelines for low-fat and low-salt cooking. This part of the qoiirse includes detailed studies of the different types of fats (polyunsaturated, mono-unsaturated and saturated); various forms of sodium; the pos­ sible long-term effects of highfat, high-salt diets (including high blood pressure and arterio­ sclerosis); alternative ingredients and other steps to make healthier recipes (such as rinsing ground beef with water). "Once people are conscious of it, they'll woik with it," said White, who added that he strongly per­ ceives a growing dietaiy awareness in the sfij. "I'm seeing more and more that the younger a person is, the healthier he or she eats." "What he's teaching is how to live longer through better eating, and that doesn't mean boring menus," noted Don Yaney, ex­ ecutive chef at the Lundeberg School. "It means investijgating ways to make something tasty while minimizing sodium and fat." Donald "Skip" Polzin, who last month graduated from the steward recertification course, said that the studies of sodium and fat in diets were "very useful. More and more crewmembers are changing their eating habits, looking for low-fat foods like pasta. A lot of them eat less red meat and are switching tochicken and fish." A i". Jijy. mm "M �12 SEAFARERS LOG APRIL 1994 i. • Instructor Byran Cummings tosses a dummy Into the water for a Seafarer William Fretes (right) exits water as part of safety training. Instructor Byran Cummings is at left, surprise "man-overboard" drill. Paul Hall Center Augments Riverboat Safety Training yf '. • ••< -{' • ••- . • • • • 't'/ '- j' how do you evacuate up to 400 SIU members who sail aboard written tests. "This type of training is con­ passengers and 100-plus crew?" the overnight passenger boats Delta Queen and Mississippi tinuous," Cummings said. "And asked Cummings. "We taught Gween joined instructors from the we have to consider the possible how to load and unload pas­ Paul Hall Center for Maritime length of time until someone sengers, and used the life raft as a Training and Education in suc­ could be treated (by shoreside kind of waterbome taxi." cessfully completing another medical personnel). It could vary, In another new drill, crewseries of on-site safety courses depending on where the boat is. members used a modified breath­ Members also studied and ing apparatus to go underwater, late last year. Instructors John Smith practiced chemical safety, how to where they identified simulated (aboard the Delta Queen) and report and identify emergencies, damage to the hull. Byran Cummings (aboard the and how to care for someone until Other exercises included Mississippi Queen) each con­ the shipboard emergency squad making wooden patches which ducted three separate, week-long arrives. would cover ruptures in various Rob McLemore (right) assists Completingafiredrillonthe/WOare The second trip focused on parts of the boats' hulls. training sessions with the Greg Hawkins into a life raft. Marvin Joy (front) and Carl Koen. Seafarers, beginning in February firefighting and general safety. Cummings said he is optimis­ 1993 and ending in December. During this segment. Seafarers More safety training on the ves­ practiced using fire hoses and ex­ tic about continued success with sels is scheduled for this year. tinguishers and took part in drills the on-site safety training, not The '93 sessions "were the with a non-toxic smoke generator only aboard the Delta and Missis­ most advanced since we started which simulates conditions of a sippi Queens, but also aboard the American Queen, which is this training several years ago," shipboard fire. scheduled to begin operations said Cummings. "We expanded Valuable Tool sometime in 1995. "I've said on what's been done in previous "The smoke generator is one before that John and I and the years, and the members did an of the best devices that we've crews feel like family, and that outstanding job." The fact Aat there is little turn­ ever obtained," observed Cum­ certainly helps with the training," over in the deck and engine mings. "It's totally non-toxic, so Cununings noted. 'The engine departments facilitates the we can train on any area of any and deck personnel just don't change that much, so we can build instructors' goal of building on vessel." Cummings' cabin was used as on what we teach from year to the safety program from year to year, Cummings said. the site of Ae mock fire aboard year. "I definitely get the sense that This past year, infant, child the 382-foot vessel. Passengers all the crewmembers are proud of and adult CPR were added to the were alerted in advance, but the how safe these boats are. We do curriculum, along with advanced crew didn't know where the fire first aid procedures. Other new would take place. more than what s required by law. Passengers appreciate the safety consciousness of the crew. Dauud "This was done in port, and and the passengers appreciate our Yamini (left) practices the Heimlich maneuver for a choking infant segments included members while William Fretes learns the correct CPR procedure for an adult. learning how to identify and con­ some of the passengers went safety consciousness, too." tain hazardous materials; practic­ ashore," Cummings said. "But ing water survival and rescue; some stayed aboard to watch the touching on confined space safety drill. "The total time elapsed was and more. In all, several hundred six minutes, which is excellent. In Seafarers took part in the training. that time, the crew had to locate For the year, individual members the fire, get the safety gear, put it received a total of anywhere from on and get back to the site of the 15 to 120 hours of instruction, fire. I was pleased." The members also spent time including a multitude of practical work. (The emergency squads, ashore working with hose lines comprised of the master, two and other equipment. In previous years, the crews pilots, chief mate, third mate and deck crew„receive about 40 hours drew up ship plans identifying of training per week. The rest of fire mains, isolation valves,emer­ the hotel st^f receives about five gency escape areas, watertight doors and more. Those plans ex­ per week.) "The classes get better eveiy tensively were used during the year," remarked David Kish, vice most recent training. The final trip covered damage president of the Delta Queen control. Crewmembers practiced Steamboat Company. life rafts to shuttle other using On-SKe Training members (acting as passengers) The first sessions covered from the boats to shore. "We like CPR and first aid, and crewmem- to think that the vessels can al­ bers earned certification or recer- ways make it to shore in case of Learning how to constmct a wooden patch for the hull are (from left) Joseph Serpas, Mike Williams, tification by passing practical and an emergency, but if they can't. Johnny Speed, Gerald Henderson, Michael Ward and Willie Allen. \ 4 I 1 �T - ' y-er;^ '^ - . . ~-r *}• - : • ;• • " ; / V'-'' _,fi 'V'-v]--" APRIL 1994 SEAFARBISLOe 13 •--0. Seafarers Tout Empress H as Boon to Upgrading Classy Ten Seafarers in the advanced firefighting class last month be­ came the first upgraders to train aboard the Empress II, the new state-of-the-art barge which is moored at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Educa­ tion in Piney Point, Md. The upgraders took part in in­ terior firefighting and hazardous materials drills aboard the Empress II, which was launched in 1986 and formerly was used by the government for electromag­ netic testing. Lundeberg School instructors are planning a wide range of uses for the barge by deck and engine department upgraders. They have described the Empress II, which was acquired by the Lundeberg School earlier this year, as a valu­ able and versatile training tool, and the, firefighting students echoed those sentiments. "I thought it was very good because it has so many spaces, hatches and ways that someone might get lost in such a small area," commented Christian Werner, who often has sailed as a bosun aboard AT«S:T's cable ships. "We had to find the (mock) fire, isolate it and attack it. The smoke machine made the drill very realistic, not to mention very dark!" The smoke generator to which Werner referred emits non-toxic, thick smoke which simulates the conditions of a shipboard fire. David Rush Ingram, a chief electrician who sails aboard Waterman Steamship vessels, said that the Empress II "is an excellent tool. The spaces are just like what you deal with aboard ship: the engine room, the cargo holds, the bridge. There also are similar communications systems and alarms. "I've been to Piney Point Lundeberg School instructor Byran Cummings (right) preps students many times, and this barge ab­ for a simulated fire aboard the Paul Hall Center's new training barge. solutely is a Worthwhile addition.' Ingram added that the Empress 11's relatively plain ex­ terior belies the numerous, top­ flight equipment inside. "I think it's going to shock people, be­ cause when you first look at the outside, you may think there's not much to it. But once you get in­ side, the refrigeration system, the hydraulics, the winches, the bilge pumping ... all of those things can come into play, not just in firefighting but dso in other clas­ ses. Even the smaller systems, like the heating system is basical­ ly a small boiler system." Instructor John Smith stated that the training was successful. "I think the upgraders did just fine, and there's no doubt the barge will continue to be liseful. It's got a myriad of places to do Running a fire hose through one of the Empress ll's decks was part things, and it's got more than one Upgraders secure a door during a firefighting drill aboard Empress II. deck.' of the exercise. .•••"'J.- • Key Mariliiiie Issues Discussed At Unioii Meeting in Jacksonviiie Seafarers and their families last month turned out en masse for an informative, rousing meeting at the SIU hall in Jacksonville, Ha. During the two-hour gathering, members conferred with SIU Ex­ ecutive Vice President Joseph Sacco, Contracts Department Vice President Augie Tellez, Guif Coast Vice President Dean Corgey, Gulf Coast Assistant Vice President Dave Heindel and Port Agent Tony McQuay on a wide range of maritime issues. "Everybody was very enthused," said 59-year-old Recertified Steward Joe Miller, who joined the SIU in 1960in the portofNew York. "The membership was brought • •. ."'i! • "m • M:. —- — up-to-date on what the union's in photos above and below, Seafarers and their families pack the fighting for, and we appreciated Jacksonville SIU hall last month. M (the officials) being there." SIU Executive VP Joseph Sacco talks about maritime revitalization. ..t •f. Addressing the members in Jack- SIU Executive VP Joseph Sacco (center) shares a laugh with Bosun sonville is SIU VP Dean Corgey. Carlos Canales and his wife, Cook/Baker Antoinette Canales. m • -yu W and Gulf Coast VP Dean Corgey. �Vr. -y' ''.ii.. .;> 14 APIIU.1994 SEAFARBISLOB U.S. Government Releases $30 MHIien in Economic Aid idr Fishing indusby During the Boston tie-up, fishermen met with state govern­ spoken out against the use of such ment officials in order to have a fisheries disaster declared, which equipment. As these regulations were cas­ was needed to have economic aid cading upon them, the New Bed­ funds released. They also ex­ ford Seafarers, with others from pressed their concerns and sqgPutting out condiments for the afternoon ABs Stanley Williams, David Cutchins and the fishing industry, attended a gestions for the industry to U.S. lunch are SA Biyan Ellis (left) and Chief Ed Gerena enjoy a fine meal prepared by late January meeting held by U.S. Rep. Peter Torkildsen (R-Mass.) Cook Mario Martinez. the galley gang at the end of a long day. Rep. Barney Frank (D-Mass.) and and Richard Roe, the fisheries John Bullard, head of the Com­ service regional director. Following a March 9 press merce Department Office of Susconference on the Massachusetts tainable Development and capitol grounds in Boston and a Intergovernmental Affairs. The march through New Bedford to crowd, estimated at around 300, stage a sit-in on the steps of that voiced the frustrations the fisher­ town's federal building two days men were feeling over the regula- later, the fishermen sailed their tions. They also offered boats home. Seafarers aboard the military prepositioning added, "The Obregon has a much more sophisti­ suggestions to help their industry. On March 16, Seafarers flew Ship PFC Eugene A. Obregon know that they cated electrical system than most ships and Chief Shortly after this meeting, to Washington to meet with Frank could be called out to any hot spot in the world at Electrician Charles "Buddy" Ciackley and other members of the engine department keep it running Frank, whose district includes and representatives from other a moment's notice. congressional offices. They superbly." The vessel, operated by Waterman Steamship New Bedford, interceded and got The vessel was named after Private First Class the Commerce Department agen­ finished their lobbying effort in a Co., is kept fully loaded with tanks, vehicles, food discussion with Rolland SchmitEugene A. Obregon of the U.S. Marine Corps who and waters fuel and other materiel to equip firstcy to postpone the requirement ten, the head of the National was killed in the line of duty on September 26, launch U.S. Marine units for 30 days. for the black boxes for six Marine Fisheries Service, at­ 1950 in Seoul, Korea. When activated, as during Operation Desert months. The representative also tended by members of the House Storm in 1990-1991, the Obregon promised the fishermen he would Merchant Marine and Fisheries can be ready to sail within 12 hours. seek funds to pay for the black Committee staff. Mobile Port Representative Ed boxes if the fisheries service During this same week. Kelly recently boarded the 821-foot decides to reinstate them. In the President Bill Clinton visited ship during a crew change at its interim, an SlU-favored call-in Boston where he promised to winter port of Panama City, Fla. system will be used to monitor the develop an assistance package "The crewmembers make a great days at sea program. for New England. Secretary team and are prepared to ship out Brown offered the package on whenever called," Kelly told a Sail to Boston Harbor March 21. reporter from the Seafarers LOG. "The deck department, headed by A month later, more than 50 The Fight Continues Bosun Henry Bouganim, works New Bedford-based boats, in­ While certain small victories veiy well together. The ship is al­ cluding many SlU-contracted have been achieved, the battle is ways in excellent condition," Kelly vessels, sailed into Boston Harbor far frorai over. SIU officials in td call more attention to their Washington are monitoring the stated. "Overall, this is an excellent problems. The fishermen arrived disbursement of aid money to see crew. The food prepared by Steward February 28 and soon were joined that most of it reaches the fisher­ Baker Patrick Helton and the galley by boats from the fishing ports of men, while seeking further Steward/Baker Patrick Helton (left) takes time out from gang is beyond compare. They really lunch preparations to say hello to Bosun Henry Bouganim Gloucester, Woods Hole and money and comprehensive agree­ work hard to serve a wide variety of and Chief Electrician Buddy Ciackley. Provincetown, Mass. and ments to make the management meals," noted Kelly. Portland, Maine. News reports process more responsive to the The Mobile port representative estimated the total number of industry. "We feel that our fishermen boats in the harbor at 275. More are responsible for lighting a fire than 100 other fishing boats tied under the politicians and up in their home ports during the bureaucrats," said SIU Executive two-week period. Vice President Joseph Sacco. "It At the height of the event, is important to use this momen­ more than 1,800 fishermen and tum to bring the industry together 6,000 workers in associated in­ and seek permanent solutions." dustries in New Bedford alone The SIU is coordinating meet­ were not working and were ings among fishermen up and demonstrating their support for down the New England coast to the protest. address their mutual concerns. Continued from page 2 Prepositioning Ship's Crew Ready at a Moment's Notice Posing for a picture in the galley are Steward/Baker James Tucker (left) and DEU Miguel Maistro. QMED Robert Rester (left) and AB George Dean read the Seafarers LOG before lunch is served. >' :'v ''if *-r Seafarers lead hundreds of fellow fishermen down the streets of New Bedford, Mass. to dramatize the problems of their industry. All cleaned up and ready for dinner are Bosun Bernard Hutcherson (left) and AB Kevin Hamilton. From the left are SA Comelius Watkins, DEU Norman Williams and Asst. Cook Utility Timothy Williams. -'-t; �'"•4 ^ Air.,.'—- 'Ji; .i.- • -r-'-'-'v' ••'V. • '• - J. •; A.- ; SEAFARERS LOG APRIL 1994 Steady Work, Good Morale Characterize Brooks Range 15 :. •. -•-• . . -M !thi MM' ' The SlU-crewed tanker Brooks Range is characterized by steady work and good morale among the crew qn its" West Co Coast run, notes Bosun William Kleimola. In a recent communication with the Seafarers LOG, the bosun commends the crewmembers for being "good SIU brothers and co-workers." In addition, he notes that he has been fortunate over the last 10 years to catch jobs on vessels sailing primarily on the West Coast. This had allowed him to stay in touch with his family. During shipboard union meetings and in other conversations. Brooks Range crewmembers often focus on the importance of keeping the U.S. flag flying on the high seas, Kleimola reports. We know that maintaining a strong U.S.-flag merchant fleet is "We important for this country's economy and security." In a recent meeting with Wilmington, Calif. Patrolman Rob Scrivens, who provided the photos accompanying this article, ABs Donald Rothman, Paul McMahon and Edward O'Brien sajd that they appreciated the job security they have through the SIU. Meanwhile, QMED Carlito Episioco echoed their thankful­ ness and pride in the Seafarers when he stated, "The SIU is a , great union that looks out for its members, and the Brooks Range is a good, efficient ship! The vessel is operated by Interocean Management Corp. ; • ^ ..ii 'jrHS ^i w0yt ''••ft-' ••• ' mM WWM ,-' ' r Chief Steward John Hanrahan (right photo) is busy in the ship's galley, while (left to right in left photo) QMEDs Michael Merrell and Carlito Episioco pause | for a photo on the stern en route to the engine room. -3«S • . '• ' '"-ri 7 jr..; •as W '"3'•\ JJA mm 7 I» V-1 •' .%'• Above: ABs Edward O'Brien (left) and Paul McMahon review instruc­ tions aboard the tanker. 7; ; i 3-TK;?- : .--i-iivll 'ORomvi. sr/(^ •m Ml 1v.::^ T m :17 In crew lounge, checking off with Patrolman Scrivens (taking photo) are AB Ahmed Suwaileh and (standing, l-r) QMED S. Brooks, Wiper Mohamed Shaie and En­ gine/Steward Utility Albert Westbrook. Above: Bosun Kleimola gets off the launch from the Brooks Range and heads ashore in El Segundo, Calif. Meanwhile, ABs Lee Selico (left) and Donald Rothman (right) ride launch to the vessel. IKsfi:. -, • ,.:;y •' ^'v,' P if, #'85; -j3. JM -yy'y M • '' '. - M.y �16 SEAFARERS LOG Sea-Land Quality Is a Home Away From Home For Seafarers who sail aboard the Sea-Land Quality, the many familiar ports visited on a monthly basis become a welcome sight. The Quality leaves from Boston to sail for Elizabeth, N.J., Norfolk, Va., then to the European ports of Rotterdam, Bremerhaven, Felixstowe, again to Rotterdam, Le Harvre and back to Boston. The 900-foot containership docks in the port of Elizabeth every 28 days where New York Patrolman Jack Sheehan services the crew and answers their union-related questions. "This is a huge ship with a large crew. The •* — Recertified ?r"w to^nle dinrar andSAdantesCame™. . , •T' "The galley gang headed by Chief Cook John TKoar aro nlu/nvs Padella is secondA to r,r,.na none. They are always preparing many different fine meals," stated Recertified Bosun Carmine "Butch" Bova in '' ' ' - - - -L - - -.r rri . recent ships minutes sent to the Seafarers LOG. Sheehan added that the deck department headed by Bosun Bova keeps the ship in top form in every port visited throughout the year: - .1. <>4 • ; The Sea-Land-Quality docks in Port Elizabeth, N.J. every 28 days. |v 'v VAjr- « 'v" / '» »« I • Francis Hammer Carries Chemical Cargoes All Over the World \ WmMm\ iiisS'-- Seafarers aboard the Francis Hammer dock in many ports around the world while offloading chemical and petroleum cargoes. New York Patrolman Jack Sheehan had a chance to board the integrated tug-barge when it recently docked at the GATX terminal in Cartaret, N.J. The vessel had just sailed from Israel to Rotterdam, then on to New Jersey. "The crew aboard the Hammer was excellent. Bosun Peter Tusa has a great deck gang that really works hard to ensure the cargo is delivered safely," Sheehan reported to the Seafarers LOG. He added that crewmembers enjoy traveling to the variety of ports on the ITB's itinerary. Sheehan noted that Steward/Baker Janet Price and the galley gang work hard to add a variety of tastes and flavors to the menu. The Hammer took 18 hours to offload its cargo before returning to sea. Sheehan noted that the vessel is an infrequent visitor to the New York/New Jersey area. The itinerary of the 1TB has it sailing to different ports around the world. mmm IL ftBS '•f \ ,. • i' ' i"" • n-.ii The integrated tug-barge Francis Hammer Ij carries chemical and petroleum cargoes all H over the world. - >= / • X- • ..-:4 AB Nick Nichols (left) and Engine Utility Jeffery Roddy relax in crew mess area after lunch aboard the Francis Hammer. AB Steven Mayer gives Steward Baker Janet Price ideas for special desserts to be served aboard the Francis Hammer. �SEAFARERS LOG APRIL 1994 Dispatchers' Report for Deep Sea May i June 1994 Membership Meetings Deep Sea, Lakes, iniand Waters FEBRUARY 16 — MARCH 15,1994 •TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Glass A Class B Class C Port New York 26 Philadelphia 3 Baltimore 1 Norfolk 16 Mobile 11 New Orleans 24 Jacksonville 21 San Francisco 19 Wilmington 18 25 Seattle Puerto Rico 13 Honolulu 7 Houston 22 St. Louis 0 Piney Point 1 0 Algonac 207 Totals Port 19 New York 3 Philadelphia 3 Baltimore 5 Norfolk 6 Mobile New Orleans 12 Jacksonville 9 San Francisco 13 7 Wilmington 10 Seattle 9 Puerto Rico 4 Honolulu 12 Houston 0 St. Louis 2 Piney Point 0 Algonac 114 Totals Port 16 NevvYork 3 Philadelphia Baltimore 5 Norfolk 10 Mobile New Orleans 10 Jacksonville 15 San Francisco 36 Wilmington 14 14 Seattle 1 Puerto Rico 13 Honolulu 13 Houston 0 SL Louis 2 Piney Point 0 Algonac 156 Totals Port 11 New York 1 Philadelphia 1 Baltimore 4 Norfolk 2 Mobile New Orleans 12 2 Jacksonville San Francisco 10 6 Wilmington 7 Seattle 7 Puerto Rico 4 Honolulu Houston 0 St. Louis 0 Piney Point 0 Algonac 68 Totals Totals All Departments 545 TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C ••REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C Trip Reliefs DECK DEPARTMENT ; 30 7 11 19 22 28 25 18 13 25 2 18 22 4 2 1 1 I 6 , 0 ' • •: 2 4 5 .2 10 •0 0 0 44 :• 9 b 251 15 19 5 1 6 11 8 9 10 4 15 11 13 19 1Z16 12 14 11 10 11 10 3 3 11 20 •,: 16 0 .1 0 . 1 0 0 139 146 : • 6 1 1 • 0 0 1 1 . V 1 1 1 0 2 2 8 2 . ; 1 4 2 6 •••„ 0 , 0 0 19 2 3 1 4 4 6 0 0 0 55 56 5 4 22 24 40 44 49 45 48 19 12 40 0 3 0 411 52 12 14 35 36 56 53 45 37 36 9 33 60 3 12 1 494 6 2 1 5 2 7 3 4 11 6 8 28 9 1 0 0 93 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 10 21 10 0 25 14 2 16 0 186 • '5 r\4 3 20 13 21 15 17 6 13 6 38 •• It 2 19 0 233 755 171 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 3 28 4 1 1 0 4 1 10 0 5 4 6 4 6 0 4 4 1 11 0 2 10 8 •i-Vv • • ••• 4 0 0 0 15 0 0 29 110 343 385 70 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 26 1 ' V 7 4 20 2 30 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 11 10 9 6 0 0 0 142 156 1,536 0 0 1 0 1 •" 6 1 / Wh M. ' i. • !$'• 1 ' .T. t: Personals SOLOMAN M. JOSEPH Please contact Haniff "Bob" Abdool at 97-19 120th St., Richmond Hill, NY 11419; or phone (718) 846-0889. ANTHONY NOBILE Please contact your daughter, Diane Nobile Serra, at 143 Columbia St., Apt. 3A, Brooklyn, NY 11231; telephone (718) 858-7704. t 28 4 3 11 1 13 13 11 8 9 8 139 6 0 0 0 256 1,511 426 '': •••t ' 3 .r„ " ..;V lotal Kegisterea means uic uuiuuci m lutii wiiu ** "Registered on the Beach" means the total number of men registered at the port at the end of last month. A total of 954 jobs were shipped on SlU-contracted deep sea vessels. Of the 954 Jobs shipped, 343 jobs or about 36 percent were taken "A" seniority member^. The rest were filled by «B" taKen by oy "A wmumy mciuiA^ip. - and «C' ^ semonty _ . ^ to March 1- 15,1994, -flAAii ^ -ICiC trip relief jobs lAkc iVArA chiniiMl. Smce SinrA the the inn people From February 16 a total of 156 were shipped. tnp relief program began on April 1,1982, a total of 20,529 jobs have been shipped. .V;i> .'a- Each port's meeting iOarts at 10:30a.m. 1 12 2 0 6,; 40 29 46 *'^'25>::-: A : 30 26 18 106 28 3 20 5 498 •:-,r Piney Point Monday, May 2, June 6 New York Tuesday: May 3, June 7 Philadelphia Wednesday: May 4, June 8 Baltimore Thursday: May 5, June 9 Norfolk Thursday: May 5, June 9 Jacksonville Thursday: May 5, June 9 Algonac Friday: May 6, June 10 Houston Mond^: May 9, June 13 New Orleans Tuesday: May 10, June 14 Mobile Wednesday: May 11, June 15 San Francisco Thursday; May 12, June 16 Wilmington Monday: May 16, June 20 Seattle Friday: May 20, June 24 San Juan ^ • Thursday: May 5, June 9 St Louis :. . Friday: May 13, June 17 Honolulu Friday: May 13, June 17 Duluth 4®. Wednesday: May 11, Jime 15 • Jfcrscy City ' • Wednesday: May 18, June 22 WS0i New Bedford Tuesday: May 17, June 21 • 0 2 6 17 Correction A photograph that ran on page 4 of the February issue of the Seafarers LOG incorrectly identified Texas politician Jim Mattox who was visiting the Houston SIU Hall. He is a candidate for U.S. Senate from the Lone Star State. Letter to the Editor Remember the WWII Merchant Mariner I would like to remind everyone that Maritime Day (May 22)once again is approaching. On thatday, remember the shocking truth: More than 700 American merchant ships were lost from enemy action during World War n, 100 on the Murmansk Run alone. During the fust six months of U.S. involvement in the war, almost400American mochant vessels were sunk by German submarines. In all, one out of every 35 American men killed from enemy action was a merchant mariner. Thousands of merchant seamen went to their graves. We were the only all-volunteer service, yet our govemment waited 43 years to give us veterans' status—and then put a price list on every medal we won. Only the Russian govemment gave us a free bronze m^al, for Murmansk. Yes, the WWII merchant mariner was indeed a forgotten hero. But remember him on Maritime Day. Peter Salvo, Retired Oiler McKeesport, PA • rj;' • . • �•1 V. >1" '• APRIL1994 18 SEAFARERSLOG Dispatchers' Report for Great Lakes Seafarers International Union Directory Michael Sacco President John Fay Secretary-Treasurer Joseph Sacco Executive Vice President Augustin Tellez Vice President Collective Bargaining George McCartny Vice President West Co oast Roy A. "Buck" Mercer Vice President Government Sei^ices Jack CafFey Vice President Atlantic Coast Byron Kelley Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Dean Corgey Vice President Gulf Coast V -' 'W I • • •" • • ;• 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 606 Kalihi St. 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 Jerse' MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy. Mobile, AL 36605 (205)478-0916 NEW BEDFORD 48 Union St. New Bedford, MA 02740 (508) 997-5404 NEW ORLEANS 630 Jackson Ave. New Orleans, LA 70130 (504)529-7546 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave. Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718)499-6600 NORFOLK 115 Third St. Norfolk, VA 23510 (804) 622-1892 PHILADELPHIA FEBRUARY 16 — MARCH 15,1994 CL—Company/Lakes L—Lakes NP—^Non Priority •TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP Port Algonac Port Algonac Port Algonac Port Algonac 0 12 0 16 1 2 1 10 1 TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups QassCL Class L Class NP DECK DEPARTMENT 0 10 0 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 4 0 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 3 0 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 0 0 0 ••REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP 0 46 0 26 0 1.1 0 40 Totals All Departments 0 40 3 0 17 0 0 123 * "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. 2 - ^ '27; 10 17 Dispatchers' Report for Inland Waters FEBRUARY 16 — MARCH 15, JL994 TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C DECK DEPARTMENT •TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Region 6 Atlantic Coast" Gulf Coast Lakes & Inland Waters M 16 0 West Coast 27 Totals Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast 0 r Lakes & Inland Waters|^ West Coast 0 13 Totals Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast Lakes & Inland Watefs West Coast Totals 0 4 0 5 0 1 2 3 0 0 0 0 1 b 0 1 • 0 11 0 19 30 ' 2 0 5 0 5 0 0 5 2 0 0 ••• • 89 1 41 97 3 46 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 1 0 •: -.O,' 0 0 1 3 0 ,7-7.b 0 0 b 4 0 1 0 3 0 2 5 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 0 0 3 0 1 0 4 0 5 0 0 1 8 4 2 ••REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C 4. 83 2 5 0 5 12 0 27 0 62 89 3 1, 39 0 43 1 J 0 0 2 5 : 0 0 5 5 ••.••44'"^ 2 2 12 2 18 , 0 2 0 0 2 16 113 105 55 144 Totals All Departments 45 40 * "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 nien registered at the port at the end of last month. Reminder: Z-Cards Musi Be Renewed All Seafarers are reminded that their z-cards have to be updated by 1998. The Coast Guard has outlined a plan, based on the issuance date of the documents obtained before 1991. The date of issuance is located on the back of the z-card to the right of the thumb prints. (Since 1991, z-cards have been issued with expiration dates posted on both the front and back of the docu­ ments.) The following chart shows the year that merchant mariner's documents, in order to remain active, must be renewed based on issuance dates. The exact date of expiration matches the month and day of issuarice. 4 sit -* • Philadelphia," PA 19148 (215)336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75 Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 2 West Dixie Highway Dania, FL 33004 (305) 921-5661 SANFRANCISCQ 350 Fremont St. San Francisco, CA 94105 (415)543-5855 Government Services Division (415) 861-3400 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave. Stop 1616 Santurce, PR 00907 (809) 721-4033 SEATTLE 2505 First Ave. Seattle, WA 98121 (206) 441-1960 ST. LOUIS 4581 Gravois Ave. St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave. Wilmington, CA 90744 (310)549-4000 Renewal Year 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 Issuance Year 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1 1984 1985 1986 1987 1988 1 1979 1980 1981 1982 1983 1 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978 1 1969 1970 1971 1972 1964 1965 1966 1967 1973 1968 1 1 1959 1960 1961 1962 1963 1 1954 1955 1956 1957 1958 1 1949 1950 1951 1952 1953 1 1944 1945 1946 1947 1948 1 1939 1940 1941 1942 1943 1 1937 1938 1 Source: Federal Register, September 16,1993 •• �SEAFARERS UK APRIL 1994 J oining the growing number of SIU pensioners this month are 18 additional Seafarers who have retired to the beach after many years of sailing the world's seaways. Thirteen of those signing off sailed in the deep sea division while four sailed the inland waterways and one the Great Lakes. Brothers Arthur Lawson Jr. and Robert McGonagle com­ pleted bosun recertification cour­ ses at Piney Point while Robert Outlaw graduated from the steward recertification course. Of the retiring Seafarers, 12 served in the U.S. military: six in the Army, three in the Air Force, two in the Navy and one in the Marine Corps. Of all the union brothers sign­ ing off this month, Daniel O'Rourke was with the SIU the longest—having received his union book in 1945 in the port of New York. Brief biographical sketches of Brothers Lawson, McGonagle, Outlaw and O'Rourke as well as the other new pensioners follow. DEEP SEA THOMAS COLBERT, 53, joined the Seafarers in 1959 in the port of New York. Bom in Jefferson Township, Pa,, he sailed in the deck depart­ ment. Brother Colbert resides in Violet, La. MARGARITO DEGOLLADO, 65, joined the SIU in 1955 in the port of Houston. A native of Gal­ veston, Texas, he sailed in the steward department. Brother Degollado served in the U.S. Air Force from 1946 to 1947. He retired to Houston. AMERICO FARIA,70, joined the SIU in 1959 in the port of San Francis­ co. Bom inNew Bedford, Mass., he To Our New Pensioners ... Thanks for a Job Well Done I- INLAND • -.ri"- M - -ft V.i.. •U • '• ;jS •••; •t-: SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE SIU PACIFIC DISTRICT PENSION PLAN JOHN KARONIS, 65, joined the union in 1971 in the port of New York. Bom in Greece, he sailed in the engine department. Brother Karonis upgraded frequently at the Lundeberg School. He retired to Athens, Greece. A new round of general education college courses, taught at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, will begin May 9 and will mn through July 8. These evening classes for upgraders taking vocational training courses are designed to enhance the proficiency of SIU members in areas related to the maritime industry. Among the subjects that will be offered are General Physical Science II, Physics II, Composition and Rhetoric, Composition and Literature, College Mathematics I and Principles of Psychology. Also available during the session will be Development MathemaUcs, Developmental Writing and Developmental Reading. These courses are available during the free time for all Seafarers who are upgrading at the center. They provide members with the opportunity to gain college credits while improving their seafaring skills. The Lundeberg School at the center offers two Associate of Applied Science degrees: Nautical Science Technology for Seafarers sailing in the deck department and Marine Engineering Technology for engine department members. (SIU members from either department who have upgraded at the school already have eamed credit toward a degree.) For more information about these courses and the college program in general, contact the academic department at the Lundeberg School at (301)994-0010 or write Academic Department, Seafarers Harry Lun­ deberg School of Seamanship, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674. •"•1i'.?v ... from 1950 to 1953. He calls San Francisco home. RAYMOND BAXTER, Each month in the Seafarers LOG, the names of SIU members who recently have become 61, joined the pensioners appear with a brief biographical sketch. These men and women have served Seafarers in the maritime i^ustry well, and the SIU and all their union brothers and sisters wish them 1973 in the happiness and health in the days ahead. port of Nor­ folk, Va. A native of ConROBERT ARTHUR sailed in the engine department. roe, Texas, he OUTLAW, Brother Faria served in the U.S. LAWSON sailed in the engine department. 63, joined the JR., 62, Army from 1944 to 1946. He calls Boatman Baxter retired to Seafarers in joined the Sacramento, Calif, home. Hampton, Va. 1971 in his na­ Seafarers in tive Bal­ 1967 in the WILBUR ULAS COFFMAN, 61, joined the timore. GEE, 61, port of New SIU in 1951 in the port of Galves­ Brother Out­ joined the York. A na­ law success­ ton, Texas. Bom in Elk Falls, Kan­ union in 1964 tive of Fall sas, he sailed in the deck fully completed the steward recer­ River, Mass., he completed the in the port of department. Boatman Coffman tification program in 1982. He bosun recertification program at New York. A served in the U.S. Army from 1951 served in the U.S. Air Force from Piney Point in 1989. Brother LawPort Arthur, 1953 to 1956. He lives in Houston. to 1953. He retired to Chesapeake, son resides in Clearwater, Fla. Texas native, Va. he sailed in WILBERT the engine department. Brother DEQUEANT, ROBERT HUBERTO Gee served in the U.S. Navy from 62, joined the McGONAGLE, VERA, 65, 1949 to 1953. He retired to Sabine union in 1964 62, joined the joined the Pass, Texas. in the port of SIU in 1956 SIU in 1957 Port Arthur, in his native in the port of JACOB Texas. A na­ Boston. New York. A GROBY, 65, tive of Ar­ Brother Mc­ Motul, joined the cadia, La., he Gonagle suc­ Mexico na­ Seafarers in most recently sailed as a captain. cessfully tive, he sailed 1974 in the Boatman Dequeant resides in completed the bosun recertification in the deck department. Brother port of Hous­ Elton, La. program at the Lundeberg School Vera upgraded at (he Lundeberg ton. A native in 1979. He served in the U.S. School in 1981. He served in the of Savannah, LOUIS SMITH H, 53, joined the Army from 1948 to 1954. He calls U.S. Army from 1952 to 1955. Ga., he sailed Seafarers in 1972 in the port of Ewa Beach, Hawaii home. Brother Vera resides in Jardines in the deck department. Brother Norfolk, Va. Bom in Oklahoma Medrida, Mexico. City, he sailed in the engine depart­ Groby served in the U.S. Marine DANIEL ment. Boatman Smith served in the Corps from 1946 to 1948. He lives O'ROURKE, HUGH U.S. Navy from 1956 to 1960. He in Buna, Texas. 68, joined the WOOTEN, retired to Riverview, Fla. union in 1945 65, joined the WILLARD in the port of GREAT LAKES union in 1970 HUGGINS, New York. A of in the port ARNOLD PERRY, 65, joined the 66, joined the New Jersey San Francis­ SIU in 1956 in the port of Buffalo, SIU in 1962 native, he co. Bom in N.Y. A New Bedford, Mass. na­ in the port of sailed in the Utah, he tive, he sailed in the deck depart­ Mobile, Ala. deck department. Brother O'­ sailed in the ment. Brother Perry served in the The Virginia Rourke upgraded at Piney Point fre­ steward department. Brother U.S. Army from 1946 to 1953. He native sailed quently. He resides in Seattle. Wooten served in the U.S. Army still calls New Bedford home. in the engine department. Brother Huggins served in the U.S. Air Force from 1945 to 1947. He calls Mobile home. Hew Eveahv Cmrse Sesskm Be^ Far LmuUberg SOUHH Unnulwrs . 19 - > /. .. .U ft This is a summary of the annual report for the SIU Pacific District Pension Plan (Employer Identification No. 94-6061923, Plan No. 001) for the year ended July 31, 1993. The annual report has been filed with the Intemal Revenue Service, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). Basic Financial Statement Benefits under the plan are provided bya trast arrangement. Plan expenses were $14,115,589. These expenses included $1,185,930 in administrative expenses and $12,929,659 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. A total of5,887 persons were participants in or beneficiaries of the plan at the end of the plan year, although not all of these persons had yet eamed the right to receive benefits. The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $166,849,849 as of July 31, 1993, compared to $156,607,49,8 as of July 31,1992. During the plan year the plan experienced an increase in its net assets of $10,242,351. This increase included unrealized appreciation or depreciation in the value of plan assets; tl(at is, the difference between the value of the plan's assets at the end of the year and the value of the assets at the beginning of the year or the cost of assets acquired during the year. The plan had total income of $24,357,940 including employer contributions of $451,536, earnings from investments of $5,923,986, stock dividends of $437,114, net realized gain on sale or exchange of assets of $4,533,531, unrealized appreciation of assets of $12,854,269 and other income of $157,504. Employees do not contribute to this plan. r •, = Minimum Funding Standards Our actuary's statement shows that enough money was contributed to the plan to keep it funded in accordance with the minimum funding standards of ERISA. Your Rights to Additional Information You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any part thoeof, on request The items listed below are included in that report: 1. An accountant's report; 2. Assets held for investments; 3. Actuarial information regarding the funding of the plan; 4. Transactions in excess of five (5) percent of plan assets;and 5. Fiduciary information, including transactions between the plan and parties-in-interest (th« is, persons who have certain relationships with the plan). To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call the office of the plan administrator, SIU Pacific District Pension Plan, 522 Harrison Street, San Francisco, CA 94105. Telephone Number: (415) 495-6882. You also have the right to receive from the plan administrator, on request and at no charge, a statement of the assets and liabilities of the plan and accompanying notes, or a statement of income and expenses of the plan and accompanying notes, or both. If you request a full annual report from the plan administrator, these two statements will be included as part of that report. You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the plan, 522 Harrison Street, San Francisco, CA 94105, and at the U.S. Department of Labor in Washington, DC or to obtain a copy from the U.S. Department of Labor upon payment of copying costs. Requests to the Department of Labor should be addressed to: Public Disclosure Room, N4677, Pension and Welfare Benefit Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, 200 Constitution Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20216. f �20 APRIL 1994 SEAFARERS LOG .- v-v. Final Departures DEEP SEA SALEHALI JOHN CISIECKI Pensioner John Cisiecki, 63, passed away February 16. A native of Pennsyl­ vania, he joined the SIU in 1941 in the port of New York. Brother Cisiecki completed the bosun recertification program at Piney Point in 1974. He began receiv­ ing his pension in February 1987. r- ;t: .. if ;-::••• • -••I'-''-. ''••"•.? • ' • ^ •••" ;• y • ^'; :':v K k- IPlliiirV,. i:L- •' . Saleh Ali, 34, died Oc­ tober 10, 1988. Bom in Yemen, he joined the Seafarers in 1975 in the port of New York. Brother Ali sailed in the deck department. .^•: Hi:'-: V.;.'..: iSil Ijf;ff': I - • 'V- ; .joiVA/- • •• FRANK CONWAY Pensioner Frank Conway, 72, died February 28. He started sail­ ing with the union in 1969 in his native San Francisco. Brother Conway sailed in the engine department. He served in the U.S. Army Air Force from 1942 to 1944. Brother Conway retired in August 1988. PEDRO GARCIA Pensioner ~ Pedro Gar­ cia, 81, passed away Febraary 18. Bom in Puer­ to Rico, he joined the Seafarers in 1943 in the port of New York. Brother Gar­ cia sailed in the steward depart­ ment. He began receiving his pension in March 1977. ANTHONY HANNA Pensioner Anthony Hanna, 72, died March 6. A Shenan­ doah, Pa. na­ tive, he joined the SIU in 1948 in the port of Baltimore. Brother Hanna sailed in the deck department. He retired in November 1982. BILLIE JENKINS ii- f/'i ";•. • •, r ! . :p. I^':| if- . S;, ' Pensioner Billie Jenkins, 67, passed away Febraary 23. Bom in Ash­ land, Ky., he joined Ae union in 1957 in the port of Philadelphia. Brother Jenkins sailed in the engine department. He began receiving his pension in January 1986. VICTOR PLACEY Pensioner Victor Placey, 69, died Febraary 14. A native of Pennsyl­ vania, he joined the Seafarers in 1943 in the port of New York. Brother Placey sailed in the deck department. He retired in Febraary 1989. Boatman Frederickson sailed in the engine department. He began receiving his pension in October 1987. ment. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army in World War II. Brother Hopkins retired in May 1985. RICHARD SMITH Pensioner Richard Smith, 76, passed away January 30. Bom in Florida, he joined the SIU in 1952 in the port of New York. Brother Smith sailed in the steward department. He served in the U.S. Navy during World W^r 11. Brother Smith began receiving his pension in April 1982. HARVEY DAVIS Harvey Davis, 58, passed away March 3. A Missouri native, he joined the SIU in 1970 in the port of St. Louis. Boatman Davis sailed in the engine department. LAWRENCE RODAL Pensioner Lawrence Rodal, 64, died Febraary 10. A Michigan native, he joined the Seafarers in 1966 in the port of Frankfort, Mich. He sailed in the engine department. BrothCT Rodal upgraded at Piney Point in 1979. He began receiving his pen­ sion in December 1986. ROBERT STAPLIN Pensioner Robert Staplin, 73, died January 26. A native of Attleboro, Mass., he joined the union in 1955 in the port of New York. Brother Staplin sailed in the engineroom. He was a veteran of the U.S. Navy in World War II. Brother Staplin retired in August 1985. JOHNCOSSMAN Pensioner John Cossman, 67, passed away January 11. He joined the Seafarers in 1970 in his native Hous­ ton. Boatman Cossman last sailed as a tankerman. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1944 to 1947. Boatman Cossman retired in January 1989. STEPHEN TAYLOR Pensioner Stephen Taylor, 66, died December 24. A native of Lawrence, Kan., he joined the SIU in 1958 in the port of Los Angeles. Boatman Taylor sailed in the steward department. He began receiving his pension in January 1992. OSMAN ZEN Pensioner Osman Zen, 75, passed away Febraary 21. A Philippine Island native, he joined the union in 1958 in the port of New York. Brother Zen sailed in the steward department. He began receiving his pension in November 1982. INLAND WILLIAM CARMEAN William Carmean, 69, died December 26. Bom in Mathews, Va., he joined the Seafarers in 1972 in the port of Philadelphia. Boatman Carmean sailed as a mate. He retired in January 1988. CHRISTIAN FREDERICKSON Pensioner Christian Frederickson, 68, died Febraary 26. He joined the union in 1961 in his native Philadelphia. George Quinones passed away October 4, 1993. The retired engine department member joined the union in New York as a charter member in 1939. He was 82. Quinones was involved in several of the union's early or­ ganizing drives. He sailed during World War II, the Korean conflict and the Viet­ nam War. A February 22 ceremony conducted by the U.S. Coast Guard to honor the former mer­ chant marine veteran was fol­ lowed by the scattering of Brother (^inones's ashes at sea in Corpus Christi, Texas, as he had requested. Houston SIU Repre­ sentative Mike Calhoun at­ tended the services and presented the family with a traditional flower wreath to toss into the water following the memorial ceremony. RAILROAD MARINE GREAT LAKES SEYMOUR WOLFSON JOHN HOPKINS Pensioner Pensioner Seymour John Hop­ Wolfson, 68, kins, 74, passed away passed away Febraary 14. Januaiy 31. He joined the Bom in Seafarers in Alabama, he 1957 in his joined the native Brook­ union in lyn. Brother 1960 in the Wolfson completed the bosun port of Detroit. Brother Hop­ recertification course at Piney kins sailed in the engine departPoint in 1982. He began receiv­ ing his pension in January 1990. WILSON YARBROUGH Pensioner Wilson Yarbrough, 78, died January l8. Bom in Texas, he joined the SIU in 1947 in the port of New York. Brother Yarbrough sailed in the steward department. He retired in Septem­ ber 1974. STANLEY STIGEN Pensioner Stanley Stigen, 72, rassed away February 19. Jom in Wis­ consin, he joined the SIU in 1960 in the port of Detroit. Brother Stigen sailed in the deck department. He retired in March 1987. Charter Member George Quinones Dead at 82 PAULBASSETT Pensioner Paul Bassett, 85, died Febraary 16. A Virginia native, he joined the union in 1959 in the port of Norfolk, Va. Brother Bassett sailed in the deck department. He began receiving his pension in January 1974. SIU Rep. Mike Calhoun (left) offers condolences to the Quinones family following the memorial ceremony in Corpus Christi, Texas. SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE SIU PD SUPPLEMENTAL BENEFITS FUND, INC. This is a summary of the annual report for the SIU PD Supplemental Benefits Fund, Inc. (Employer Identification No. 94-1431246, Plan No. 501) for the year ended July 31,1993, The annual report has been filed with the Internal Revenue Service, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). The SIU PD Supplemental Benefits Fund, Inc. has committed itself to pay benefit claims incurred under the terms of the plan. Basic Financial S^ement Benefits under the plan are provided by a trust arrangement. Plan exjrenses were $7,873,980. These expenses included $245,729 in administrative expenses and $7,628,251 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. A total of 1,945 persons were participants in or beneficiaries of the plan at the end of the plan year, although not all of these persons had yet earned the right to receive benefits. The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $2,965,498 as of July 31,1993, compared to $3,052,472 as of the beginning of the plan year. During the plan year the plan experienced a decrease in its net assets of $86,974. The plan had total income of $7,787,006 including employer contributions of $7,560,449, earnings fix)m investments of $111,803, and other income of $114,754. Employees do not contribute to this plan. Your Bights to Additionai Information You have the right to receive a copy of the fully annual report, or any part thereof, on request. The items listed below are included in that report: 1. An accountant's rqjort; 2. Assets held for investment; 3. Transactions in excess of five (5) percent of the fund assets; and 4. Fiduciary information, including transaction between the plan and parties-in-interest (that is, persons who have certain relationships with the plan). To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call the office of the plan administrator, SIU PDSupplemental Benefits Fund, Inc., 522 Harrison Street, San Francisco, CA 94105. Telephone Number; (415) 495-6882. You also have the right to receive from the plan administrator, on request at no charge, a statement of the assets and liabilities of the plan and accompanying notes, or a statement of income and expenses of the plan and accompanying notes, or both. If you request a full annual report from the plan administrator, these two statements will be included as part of that report. You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the plan, 522 Harrison Street, San Francisco, CA 94105, and at the U.S. Department of Labor in Washington, DC or to obtain a copy from the U.S. Department of Labor upon payment of copying costSi Requests to the Department of Labor should be addressed to: Public Disclosure Room, N4677, Pension and Welfare Benefit Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, 200 Constitution Avenue, NW, Washington, D.C. 20210. �APRIL 1994 SEAFARERS LOR 21 •.•if-i?;- • Appeals Board A/^^roves Sh^ipbig Rules Changes Updates Mandated by New Federal Regulations and Contract Revisions •f'-V-V '.. ••'•" T'i; I '.v " •• 1 The Seafarers Appeals Boarc has approved extensive changes in the shipping rules that govern how SIU members claim ant maintain deep sea jobs. Many of the rule changes are technical, mandated by recently implemented federal regulations like the Oil Pollution Act of 199 (CPA '90). All of thechanges thai appear in Action 372 have been incorporated and printed in the 1993 Standard Freightship Agreement and the 1993 Stand ard Tanker Agreement. "We have completed thorough review of the shippin rules in order to bring them up date," noted Augie Tellez, SIl vice president for contracts and collective bargaining. "Maa changes have occurred since the shipping rules were last printed The new contracts contain the up dated rules." The modifications within the shipping rules include those adopted with regard to benzene testing of members, claiming o jobs aboard cable ships and the conditions for requesting trip reliefs. Action 372 went into effect immediately after its was passec by the board, which is composed of representatives from both the SIU and its contracted com­ panies. The complete text of the action is printed below. or other accredited hospital. except as specifically provided qualifications, seniority, date oj Certificate." Change to read as follows: ". . for in (a) and (p) of Rule 2.G.21. registration, etc. Transportation New language added in 5, an accredited doctor or hospi­ and "(c) It is mandatory that in such cases shall be provided by Preferences and Priorities,12.(a) tal." crewmembers make arrange­ the Employer." and renumbered as new 13. to Change language in 2. Ship ments to attend the lifeboat pro New language in first para read as follows: "13. Trip ping Procedure 5(b)&(c) to reac gram conducted at the Seafarers graph of 5. Preferences and Reliefs, Permanent Ratings. as follows: "(b) Effective June Harry Lundeberg School Priorities, 2.(a) to read as fol­ Anything contained in these 16, 1993, no seaman shall be Seamanship within the first eight lows: "2. (a) If a laid up ship Rules to the contrary not­ shipped to a contracted vessel (8) months of employment." Re requires a crew to report for duty withstanding, the following without having passed the pre letter old (d) through (r) with new aboard a vessel within thirty (30, shall be applicable. hire drug test pursuant to U.S. (c) through (q) respectively. days following layup, the crew "(a) The following specified Coast Guard regulation (CO DChange language in 2. Ship members at the time of layup shah ratings enumerated in this sub­ 86-067) (46 GFR, 4, 5 and 16) ping Procedure, K (deleted last have priority for all such jobs, section (a),possessing Class "A" except those seamen who meet the paragraph and section that listed provided that such crewmembers seniority, upon attaining four (4) requirements of the USCG drug key personnel) to read asfollows: are registered at a Union hiring months of continuous employ­ test exemptions in effect at that "K. In recognition of the impor­ hall not later than 5 p.m. on the ment aboard a specific vessel, time," and "(c) Effective tance of developing effective third day following the date oj shall be designated as having December 1, 1992, no seaman American-flag passengership layup. If the third day following Permanent Status for such vessel shall be shipped to a contractec utilization and in an effort to en layup is a Sunday or a recognizee' and shall request a relief of no tanker, tank vessel or barge as courage the recruitment of per­ holiday in such port, the period in less than sixty (60) days or one (1) specified in the U.S. Coast Guard sonnel with the necessary skills which registration must be com round trip where the vessels' regulations, without first provid­ and personnel qualifications and pleted shall be extended through schedule of operations involves ing a Seafarers Welfare Plan further recognizing that the suc­ the next business day. If a laid up voyages in excess of sixty (60) Benzene Clearance on their clinic cess of such development with ship requires a crew to report days, upon the vessels' arrival at card and a current Seafarers beneficial and economic benefit within three (3) days or less fol­ a port in the Continental United Welfare Plan Benzene Certifi­ to the employer and employees in lowing the date of layup, the States or Puerto Rico or other cate." substantial amount is dependent crewmembers at the time of layup mutually agreed to port. The pur^ Delete the third paragraph Oj upon competent and efficient per­ may register up to and including pose of this provision is to provide 2. Shipping Procedure 7,C.3 sonnel, for such reason during the the date the ship is re-crewing. It as closely as the vessels' opera­ which reads: "Notwithstanding term of the agreement, the Com­ is the responsibility of the crew­ tional necessities permit, a four the foregoing and anything con pany shall have the absolute anc members wishing to reclaim their (4) months on and two (2) months tained in these Rules to the con final discretion to recruit, accept, jobs to maintain contact with the off work schedule for the Per­ trary notwithstanding and as long reject or promote the personnel Port Agent where registered manent ratings. as there remains in effect the assigned to the SS Constitution since such jobs are available to "All requests for reliefs shall Seafarers Harry Lundeberg and SS Independence hotel sec­ crewmembers employed at the be so designated when referred School of Seamanship entry tion by reason of their respon­ time of payoff for a limited period by the Company to the Manpower training program for Ordinary sibilities in the conduct of the of time, but not to exceed twenty- Pool Coordinator and shall be Seaman, Wiper and Steward furtherance of the Company's four (24) hours, if available." shipped pursuant to the rules Department adopted by Seafarers business and politics. With Add new language in 5. prescribed herein. Harry Lundeberg School o respect to all replacement of such Preferences and Priorities, 4.(d, "During the period of employ­ SAB Action #372 Seamanship and as it may be personnel, the Company shal to read as follows: "(d) Within ment, permanent ratings may re­ Whereas, during the term oj changed from time to time, per­ give prompt notice to the Union each class of seniority in the Deck quest an emergency relief for the SIU Standard Freightship and sons possessing seniority clas­ hiring hall of the availability oj Department, priority for the job thirty (30) days, but no less than Tanker Agreements which ex­ sification "B" shall be limited, such employment. The Union of "Cable A.B." shall be given to fifteen (15) days, as dictated by pired June 15, 1993, the however, to employment oppor­ hiring hall shall refer suitable those seamen who have satisfac­ the vessel's operational neces­ Seafarers Appeals Board enactec tunities aboard vessels owned or and competent available person­ torily completed the entry rating sities. The four (4) month employ­ numerous shipping rule changes, chartered by the U.S. military anc' nel to the Company, and the Com­ training program at the Seafarers ment period shall be reduced by and operated by contracted civilian pany shall give due consideration Harry Lundeberg School of the number of days taken for Whereas, during the negotia­ employers pursuant to being suc­ to such referrals consistent with Seamanship and have completed emergency relief. Transportation tions of the new Standard Collec­ cessful bidders in accordance the skills arid competence of those at least eight (8) months of expenses, if any, shall be borne by tive Bargaining Agreements that with Request for Proposals referred, all consistent, however, employment aboard a cable ship the seaman requesting relief arid expire June 16,1996, several rule RFPs) and limited solely to the with the practical time con­ and possess U.S. Coast Guard the seaman providing the relief. changes were negotiated, and extent that such vessels are so straints. certification as Able Seaman." Trip reliefs shall be provided orily Whereas, several changes in designated for such purposes 'All personnel, upon comple­ Change language in 5. if a relief is available. Seamen various Federal regulations were solely by the SAB by action in tion of their tour of duty, shall Preferences and Priorities, 5.(c) who leave a vessel without a implemented that directly affect writing from time to time and to register at the hiring hall in to read as follows: "(c) Within •rroper relief shall forfeit their the shipping rules, those passenger vessels ap­ Honolulu within forty-eight (48) each class of seniority rating in reclaim rights. All seamen Now therefore, be it resolved plicable solely to the Steward hours after leaving the vessel. the Engine Department, priority returning to their ship after the that the Seafarers Appeals Board, Department and again so desig­ They must reclaim their job from for the job of Marine Electronics emergency relief period must acting under and pursuant to the nated for such purposes solely by the hiring hall shipping board Technician shall be given to those notify the hiring hall of their authority granted in Article 9 of the SAB by action in writing from 'orty-eight (48) hours prior to seamen possessing a certificate of scheduled return. the SIU Shipping Rules, shall im­ time to time." 'Permanent ratings as rejoining their assigned vessel." satisfactory completion of the ad­ plement the following amend­ specified below shall have the Add "Cable AB" position to vanced course of training by the Change language in the first right to one emergency relief Seafarers Harry Lundeberg the bottom left column of 3. Deck ments: sentence of 2. Shipping Proce­ Delete 1. Seniority l.(b) dure, 9 to read as follows: "Ex­ Department, Group 1-Day School of Seamanship for the leriod in any twelve (12) month second half of paragraph that cept where specifically provided Markers. rating of Marine Electronics period Seamen shipped as emer­ reads: . . and as well as any 'or in these Rules..." Add the word "rating" in the Technician, in the event such gency relief shall be designated as 'Emergency Reliefs.'" unlicensed seaman possessing Add new language to 2. Ship­ second sentence part 4. Business course is being offered." Change language in 5. Add new language 5. Class "B". . ."to end of para­ ping Procedure, 19(c) to read as 1 lours and Job Calls, C, to read follows: "(c) However, Ordi­ as follows: "If the sixth (6th) job references and Priorities, 9. Preferences and Priorities, graph. Delete 1. Seniority 2.(d) that nary Seamen employed aboard call does not produce a qualified from "... a U.S.P.H.S. or other 3.(e), to read as follows: "(e) reads: "(d) Seamen, who after cable ships, who have satisfac­ seaman possessing either Class accredited hospital... "to new Every effort will be made by the having been employed in the hotel torily completed the Seafarers A" or Class "B" seniority 'anguage to read as follows: "... seamen rejoining the vessel to do section of passenger vessels for a larry Lundeberg School of rating, the said job shall be an accredited hospital arid who so at the same port where the relief was provided." period of ninety (90) days... "to Seamanship entry training pro­ awarded to the seaman possess­ Add new language 5. New language added in 5. end of paragraph. Re-letter old gram, shall be permitted to ing Class "C" seniority rating (e) and (f) to new (d) and (e) remain aboard a cable ship for a entitled to the same under these references and Priorities, 11., references and Priorities, 13.(f), third paragraph and new 12., to 'ast sentence should read as foltotal of two hundred and forty Rules." respectively. Add new language to 4. Busi­ read as follows: "11. All seamen 'ows: "In such cases, the seaman Add new language in 1. 240) days with a sixty (60) day Seniority 3., second paragraph to relief period afterfour (4) months ness Hours and Job Calls, D.2., having permanent status aboard 7eing relieved shall register at his read as follows: "All seamen who of continuous employment in first part of D now numbered i [.NG carriers shall not compete home port." Add new language 5. retired from the industry who order to obtain the necessary D.l.) to read as follows: "2. In br employment aboard any other subsequently decide to return to seatime required by the U.S. the event that personnel are re­ contracted vessel during their 'references and Priorities, 13.(i), . the industry shall possess Class Coast Guard to obtain Able quired by a cable ship to assist in relief period. Failure to comply beginning of first sentence the repair of a cable break, all with this provision will terminate changed to read as follows: "(i) "C" Seniority notwithstanding Seaman certification." .Except as specifically provided Delete language in 2. Shipping jobs requested by the Employer , oermanent status. the level of seniority possessed by "12. All seamen seeking br in these Shipping Rules,..." such seamen prior to retirement. 'Procedure, 21(a), (b) and move shall be referred by Manpower to Language changed 5. This provision shall be automat­ c) to the (b) position and replace the port nearest to where the employment aboard contract^ ically applied unless waived by aforementioned to read as fol- cable ship involved is located, for tankers, tank vessels, and/or bar­ references and Priorities, 13.(1) the Seafarers Appeals Board 'ows: "21. CREW ROTATION- one job call only. All jobs not ges as specified within the mean­ to read as follows: "(I) It is the when industry conditions so dic­ PASSENGER VESSELS, (a) filled on the initial referral shall ing of the United States Coast responsibility of the seaman Ime off for Employees shall be in then be made available by Man­ Guard Benzene Regulations, 5eing replaced to maintain con­ tate." Change language in 1. accordance with the contractual power to all ports simultaneously must possess a current Benzene tact with the Port Agent at the Seniority 3. F., end of first sen­ agreement in effect between the and offered to those seamen first clearance on their Seafarers Wel­ tence, old text reads: ". .. in the Jnion and the Employer," and responding, subject to standard fare Plan clinic card, and a valid Continued on page 25 continuing care of a U.S.P.H.S. (b) Time off will not be granted shipping procedures involving Seafarers Welfare Plan Benzene -• • /V.:- • ."jr'' '• •' '1 ' •. �22 - .'• •. •.' •' SEAFARERS LOG APRIL 1994 Seafarers In Readiness ;W i-:. vCirs-^-i-:v. ^1' v; . ^ Firing 9mm pistols under the watchful eyes of a Marine colonel are Chief Mate Rich Malloy (left) and AB Scott Edington. C:\ SA Mac Browne and Chief Steward Bill Finhandler stand on deck and watch the Pearl Harbor shoreline disappear. Maintaining a steady pace for a floating repair shop for U.S. Marine Corps aircraft during a military training exercise in the Pacific was the job of Seafarers aboard the USNS Curtiss. The SlU-crewed vessel, operated by American Overseas Maritime Corp. (Amsea), was taken off reserve operating status and ac­ tivated to participate in a three-week drill called "Operation Determined Warrior" between Port Hueneme, Calif, and Pearl Harbor, Hawaii during February. Seafarers worked with Marines stationed on board the vessel to load 150 containers'in the port of Pearl Harbor. The boxes contained stores, spare parts and repair shops. Loading took three days. The actual exercise began with six to eight hours of flight operations on the vessel's return from Hawaii. Among the activities taking place on the Curtiss were helicopter landings on and takeoffs from the flight deck. During the five-day transit back to the States, the Marines utilized the ship's machine shops to repair fixed-wing (jets and propeller planes) and rotary (helicopter) aircraft parts. "We really enjoyed participating in the train­ ing exercises with the Marines," noted AB Scott Edington, who provided the Seafarers LOG with the photographs on this page. Edington added that all the Seafarers on board under the direction of Bosun Chnck Bowen worked hard to assist the Marines in whatever needed to be done. The Cwrrws, a former containership, was converted to an aircraft maintenance repair ves­ sel for the Marine Corps in 1986. During the conversion, the vessel was designed to include a flight deck. The actual aircraft that is being repaired is never brought on board, only the parts needing repair reached the Curtiss, explained a spokesman for Amsea. The Curtiss proved vital during Operation Desert Storm, serving as one of two floating repair stations for the military. ::• Crewmembers had a chance to learn from the military training exer­ cises. EU/FOWT Paul Telege (left), 1st Assistant Engineer Paul Cammaroto and DEL) Joe Schultz (holding the gun) are taught the proper way to fire a 50 caliber machine gun. Working on deck aboard the aircraft main­ tenance repair vessel is OS Curtis Phillips. OS Tyrone Johnson (left) handles^lhe lines while AB Ken Herzstein operates winch. 'Vil' ' Marines stand at attention as the Curtiss pulls out of Pearl Harbor. AB Billy Henderson (left) and AB Frank Hedge prepare for docking. V<' • Some of the crewmembers who participated in "Operation Oetermined,Warrior" include (from left) Chief Cook Fred Saffo, Chief Steward Bill Finhandler, ABs Billy Henderson and Ray Johnson, OSs Curtis Phillips, Reggie Pascua, Tyrone Johnson and Phil Wilson, and ABs Kenny Herzstein and Frank Hedge. Pictured on deck above is 2nd Assistant Engineer George Adams. '• �ji'.; W APRIL 1994 SEAFARERS LOG heading from Panama to Baton Rouge, La. Educational director reminded crew to practice safety and all times. He urged members to donate to SPAD and upgrade at Lundeberg School. No beefs or dis­ The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union ship­ puted OT reported. Crew reported board minutes as possible. On occasion, bi^use of space microwave oven and freezer or­ dered. Chairman advised crewmemiimitations, some will be omitted. bers to put normal size loads in Ships minutes first are reviewed by the union's contract department. washer. Crew thanked galley gang Those issues requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the for good food. Next port: Chiriquf Grande, Panama. union upon rece/pf of the ships minutes. The minutes are then Digest of Ships Meetings forwarded to the Seafarers LOG for publication. AMERICAN CORMORANT (Ospey Shipping), January 9— Chairman Vernon Huelett, Secretary D.K. Goggins, Deck Delegate Calvin Patterson, En­ gine Delegate Robert McDonald, Steward Delegate Robert Wright. Educational director reminded members to upgrade skills at Liindeberg School. No beefs or dis­ puted OT reported. Crew requested patrolman to meet ship in port. Crew gave vote of thanks to galley gang for great food and clean ship. COURIER (Vulcan Carriers), January 30—Chairman Michael Galbraith, Deck Delegate Robert Coleman, Engine Delegate Rod­ ney Lewis, Steward Delegate Diego Hatch. Chairman told crewmembers second washer and dryer has been requested. Educational director urged members to upgrade at Piney Point. Deck delegate reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by engine or steward delegate. Crew gave thanks to steward department for job well doiie. GOLDEN MONARCH (Apex Marine), January 30^-Chairman Charles Parman, Secret^ Pernell Cook, Educational Director C. Boleware, Engine Delegate Jerome Dooms, Steward Delegate George Marano. Chairman reported captain extended thanks to entire crew for job well done. Secretary thanked crewmembers for upkeep of ship and stated he is looking forward to returning to ship after it is laid up in Korea. He urged members to donate to SPAD. Educational director advised niembers to upgrade at Paul Hall Center. Disputed OT reported by deck and engine delegates. No beefs or dis­ puted OT reported by steward delegate. Chairman Parman stated crewmembers enjoyed "Scandal at Sea" video. Crew requested microwave oven. LNG TAURUS (ETC), January 30—Chairman Rohhynson Suy, Secret^ Francis Ostendarp, Educational Director Daniel Brass, Deck Delegate Larry Lehner. Chairman asked contracts depart­ ment for clarification of new man­ ning scales. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman reported "Scandal at Sea" video arrived on ship and encouraged entire crew to view it. Chairman announced new TV and microwave oven on order. Crew held a moment of silence in memory of departed members. SEA-LAND DEFENDER (SeaLand Service), January 23—Ghairman Robert Wagner, Secretary John Alamar, Educational Direc­ tor Balic Bazidar, Engine Delegate Donald Morrison, Steward Delegate Ignacio Fontelera. Chairman asked contracts department for copies of new con­ tract. Deck delegate reported dis­ puted OT. No beefs or disputed OT noted by engine or steward delegates. Crew requested shuttle buses in all ports outside U.S. to and from vessel. Crew also asked for new selection of shipboard movies. SEA-LAND EXPLORER (SeaLand Service), January 30—Chair­ man Jack Kingsley, Secretary William Burdette, Educational Director G. Pollard, Deck Delegate Godofred Milaho, En­ gine Delegate Steven Byerley. Chairman announced payoff upon ar­ rival in Long Beach, Calif. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew dis­ cussed system of returning movies to library after use in crew lounge. SEA-LAND HA WAII (Sea-Und Services), January 30—Chairman W. Lough, Secretary Paul Guz­ man, Educational Director Jose Del Rio, Deck Delegate Allen Run nion. Engine Delegate Kenneth Harder, Steward Delegate Glenn Taan. Chairman stated dryer in crew laundry to be repaired. Educa­ tional director reminded crewmem­ bers to upgrade at Lundeberg School. Treasurer reported $165 in ship's fund. Some disputed OT reported in deck department. No beefs or disputed OT noted by en­ gine or steward delegates. Chair­ man announced "Scandal at Sea" video available for crew to view. He also noted good response to new repair list. Steward gave spe­ cial waste cans to collect plastics to bosun for distribution to crew. Crew voted galley gang best ever and gave them special thanks. Next port: Long Beach, Calif. SEA-LAND INDEPENDENCE (Sea-Land Services), January 10— Chairman John Stout, Secretary Nancy Heyden, Educational Direc­ tor Cardel Dunn, Deck Delegate Mitch Santana, Engine Delegate Saeed Muflahi, Steward Delegate Carlton Griffin. Chairman ex­ tended special vote of thanks to steward department for holiday meals and recent barbecue. He noted most of crew is signing off after voyage and reminded them to clean rooms and leave keys with steward or bosun. He asked crew­ members to keep laundry room clean and be sure to secure all tape lockers while in port. Education^ director reminded members to donate to SPAD and upgrade at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Steward delegate thanked crewmembers for comply­ ing with new smoking rules and helping to keep mess hall and lounge clean. Next port: Long Beach, Calif. SEA-LAND QUALITY (Sea Land Service), January 23—Chairman Carmine Bova, Secretary T.J. Smith, Educational Director Hans Schlueter, Deck Delegate Tom Nealon, Engine Delegate Anthony Rotunda, Stewards Delegate Stephan Osovitz. Chairman an­ nounced new Seafarers LOGs received. Educational director ad­ vised members to upgrade skills at 'iney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew gave vote of thanks to galley gang for job well done. Next port: Boston. SEA-LAND TRADER (Sea-Laijid Service), January 30—Chairman L.E. Watson, Secretary Jack Utz, iducational Director Jan Haidir. Chairman reminded members to eave room clean when signing off ship. Crew requested new TV and refrigerator. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew asked for Sea^and to provide mail service in all jorts of call and for contracts department to clarify day-off rules. Chairman said all crewmembers should have crew lounge key in their possession. Steward an­ nounced he will check linen condi­ tion. COVE ENDEA VOR (Cove Shipjing), February 6—Chairman C.C. »mith. Secretary Thomas Wyho, Educational Director Mark Grandahl. Deck Delegate T.J. Troupe, ingine Delegate V. Rewerts, Steward Delegate Mohamed Ahmed. Chairman announced ship LIBERTY SPIRIT (Liheny Maritime), February 6-^hairman R. Brown, Secretaiy N. Evans, Educational Director D. Swords, Deck Delegate B. Rohinson, En­ gine Delegate TJ. Mattews, Steward Delegate R. Gordon. Chairman announced payoff upon arrival in New Orleans. He will dis­ cuss time off after foreign voyages with patrolman during payoff. Treasurer listed $120 in movie fund. Deck delegate reported dis­ puted OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by engine or steward delegates. Chairman reminded members signing off in New Or­ leans to strip bunks and clean rooms. LONG LINES(Transoceanic Cable), February 11—Chairman Pete Amper, Secretary Michael Bonsignore, Educational Director Eric Frederickson, Deck Delegate Joseph Cosentino, Engine Delegate Mark Francois, Steward Delegate Eric Mauley. Crew stated two new washers and dryers received in Portland, Ore. Secret^ discussed "Scandal at Sea" video with crewmembers. Treasurer reported $625 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crewmembers requested exercise room be expanded and library in crew lounge be in­ creased. Next port: Honolulu. MA YAGUEZ(Puerto Rico Marine), February 9—Chairman A. Caulder, Secretary J. Reddick, Deck Delegate Matt Arnold, Steward Delegate Lawrence Winfield. Crew asked contracts depart­ ment to clarify day-off and watch standing policies. Crewmembers gave vote of thanks to steward department for job well done. OMI SACRAMENTO (OMI), February 6—Chairman Ray Gorju, Secretary Mathew Scott, Educational Director Robert Caldwell, Deck Delegate William Steele. Chairman announced ship going into Mobile, Ala. shipyard upon arrival. He noted new chairs for crew lounge arrived and urged members to clean rooms before signing off ship. Educational direc­ tor encouraged members to attend Paul Hall Center to upgrade skills. He reminded crew the facilities are second to none for merchant mariners. Treasurer announced $260 in ship's fiind. Deck and en­ gine delegates reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by steward delegate. Bosun stated he will check with patrolman concerning renewal of clinic cards and drug testing during dry dock period. Crewmembers ;ave special recognition to mem>ers of galley gang for outstanding Christmas meal. Crew commended steward department members Steward/Baker Scott, Chief Cook Jack Freeman and SA Catherine Viamahon for having true holiday spirit and doing an excellent job. OVERSEAS HARRIETTE Maritime Overseas), February 6— Chairman Peter Victor, Secretary J. Quinn, Educational Director D. Harino, Deck Delegate Downey Shannon, Engine Delegate Ar­ mando Medina, Steward Delegate Rudolph Xatruch. Chairman reported smooth voyage and 10 days in Russia enjoyed by all. He noted ship may lay up in New Oreans for two weeks. Educational director urged members to upgrade skills at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crewmem­ bers requested copies of new con­ tract. Crew gave vote of^anks to steward department for job well done. Next port: Callao, Peru. OVERSEAS JUNEAU (Maritime Overseas), February 22—Chair­ man Jeffery Kass, Secretary Scott Opsahl, Educational Director C. Montoya, Deck Delegate Steven Marwin, Engine Delegate Jimmy Soto, Steward Delegate Ahmed Nasser. Chairman reported new furniture to arrive while vessel is in dry dock. He said he's awaiting response from contracts department concerning day-off policy and ad­ vised members to keep lounge neat and to clean rooms when signing off. Educational director urged , members to upgrade as often as possible and announced applica­ tions are available. He advised 23 iv Delegate William Murphy, En­ gine Delegate Earl Erhert. Chair­ man announced payoff upon arrival in port. Educational director urged members to read Seafarers LOG to keep informed and upgrade at Piney Point. Deck delegate asked contracts department for clarifica­ tion of rules regarading AB on wheel duty. No beefs or disputed OT reported by engine or steward delegates. Entire crew extended vote of appreciation and thanks to galley gang. Next port: Los An­ geles. SEA-LAND HAWAII (Sea-Land Service), February 6—Chairman W. Lough, Secretary D. Spangler, Deck Delegate A. Runnion, Steward Delegate Glenri Taan. Chairman reported electrician .. 'i:, Galley Crew Delivers Delicious Tuna 'i- <: : During a stopover on the tropical island of Guam, crewmembers aboard the Sea-LandNavigator had the opportunity to purchase fresh fish. Above is a photo of the galley gang with their beautifully prepared tuna. From left are Chief Cook G. Salle, Chief Steward J. Smith and Steward Assistant I. Monasser. members to read Seafarers LOG. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew extended special vote of thanks to galley gang for job well done. Next port: Cherry Point, Wash. OVERSEAS PHILADELPHIA (Maritime Overseas), February 7— Chairman Tim Olvany, Secretary D. Brown, Educational Director R. Kurpecski. Chairman noted ice machine in crew area needs repair. He announced payoff in Florida. Secretary encouraged members to read Seafarers LOG. Educational director advised crewmembers to upgrade at Paul Hall Center. Treasurer reported $50 in ships fiind. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew discussed asking company to install smoking ounge. Crew thanked steward department for job well done and extended special vote of thanks to GSU Pedro Alicea for making ship a clean home for crewmem­ bers. One moment of silence ob­ served for departed union brothers and sisters. Crew thanked contracts department for improvements in medical services for members and dependants. Next port: Corpus Cl^sti, Texas. RALEIGH BAY (Sea Land Ser­ vice), February 27—Chairman H. Knox, Secretary J. Speller, Educa­ tional Director David Dukehart. Chairman reminded members to donate to SPAD. Educational direc­ tor urged members to upgrade skills at Lundeberg School. No >eefs or disputed OT reported. ?OVE/? (Vulcan Carriers), February 6—Chairman Ray Todd, Secretary H. Manning, Education­ al Director Charles Allen. Secretary advised members to fol­ low no smoking rule in mess hall and crew lounge. No beefs or dis­ puted OT reported. Crew discussed use of washers in laundry room. SEA-LAND ENDURANCE (SeaLand Service), February 14Chairman T. Trehern, Secretary Ruehin Gallegulllos, Deck trying to repair crew dryer. He asked crewmembers to look out for one another. Treasurer reported $165 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Ciew an­ nounced video concerning runaway-flag ships viewed by all. Crew discussed building a picnic table. Next port: Honolulu. SEA-LAND KODIAK(Sea-Umd Service), February 14—Chairman Alan Lautermilch, Secretary M. Morgan, Engine Delegate BJionda Koski, Steward Delegate Ronald Dewitt Chairman advised crew to take care when walking from ship to gate during cargo operation. Crew requested different brand of coffee On ship. All delegates reported coffee tastes bad. No brofs or disputed OT reported. SEA-LAND LIBERA TOR (SeaLand Service), February 6—Chair­ man W. WhitsitL Secretary G. Thomas, Educational Director D. ' Dean. Educational director recom­ mended members take advantage of Lundeberg School courses. Deck delegate reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by steward or engine delegates. Crewmembers extended vote of thanks to galley gang for job well done. Crew requested second washer and dryer. Next port: Oakland, Calif. SEA-LAND PATRIOT(Sea-Land Service), February 26—Chairman R. Garcia, Secretary J. Russell, Deck Delegate Steve Kastel, En­ gine Delegate Joseph Vain, Steward Delegate Jacob Dusich. Chairman and crewmembers dis­ cussed "Scandal at Sea" video. Educational director noted schedule of classes at Piney Point posted. He urged members to donate to SPAD. No beefs or dis­ puted OT reported. Chairman an­ nounced response to questions sent to contracts department posted. Steward delegate asked members to keep recreation room clean and not to put empty coffee pots on Continued on page 24 •. •. -•v/ */.;•.,-It • �24 Ships Digest Continued from page 23 burners. Crew requested clarifica­ tion of payoff rules from contracts department. They also gave vote of thanks to steward department and Chief Cook John Bennett for ex­ cellent meals. Next port; Long Beach, Calif. I • APRIL 1994 SEAFARERS LOG SEA-LAND EMPRESS (Sea-. Land Service), Fehruaiy^ 12— Chairman Ray Ramirez, Secreiarj G. Bryant Jr., Educational Direc­ tor A. Bell, Deck Delegate Garx ^alker. Engine Delegate Hatchel, Steward Delegate Joel Crow. Chairman announced ship leaving Kobe, Japan. Deck and stewai^ delegates reported dis­ pute OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported hy engine delegate. Chmrman stated smooth sailing with job well done hy entire crew and good cooking hy galley gang. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. • SEA-LAND RELIANCE (SciLand Serviced February 1"— Chairman Kckert Secretary G. Sivlev. Educatjon^ Director Jar .AmiBft. IVck J. Casngay OusimiR arsraoooced pav'cjY in Tacomsia. Was& and asired crewsBfitsiess X'' cjem roccns "cax^ <^. Be dianked iircce cse« ?^ty."^^*ei£ done Deck at^TSed ais:•pmed OT. Vc iJeecs et OT dcu^acs. Osr* ncoid; S.'witntfrs I.iX'fe wc»?*<syi Osp* ihati.'ed stcwa.'d dena-Jmeic Mr gwa; meais SEA-LAND SPmiT':<isi^iJma Meeting Time Aboard the Bobo Taking part in a recent union meeting aboard the 2ndLt. John Paul Bobo in the port of Panama City, Fla. are (from left) QMED Wayne Gonsaives, bosun Red Wilson, QMED Joe Cipullo, Chief Electrician Charles Betz and Chief Steward Hans Schmuck. Service), February 14—Chairman Howard Gibbs. Steward Delegate A. Delaney, Educational Director Austin Horn, Deck Delegate Evan Bradley. Engine Delegate D. Locsin. Steward Delegate S. Hsien. Chainnan reported shower repairs complete. He stressed im­ portance of contributing to SPAD. Educational director urged mem­ bers u(>grade at Paul Hall Cen­ ter No beets *.>r disputed OT reported. SEA-LAND TACOMA (SeaLand Serv ice). Ed>ruajr> 2—Chair­ man Jwe^ .\rtis. Secretary H. Lively. Educational Director iieorge .Ackley. Engitw Delegate W. Weaver. Steward Delegate Ftaoik Martin. Chainnan noted 7ayv>d: upon arrival in Tacoma, Wash, He reported new watch systena now in effect. Secretary asked vMJteficts department to clarify use of gkwes in galley. Educational dKWtor ask)^ for donation to Seanun's Church in New York for books sent kv vessel. He reminded members to upgrade at Limdeberg School. Deck delegate reported dis­ puted OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by engine or steward delegates. "Ciew discussed starting movie libraiy and building book­ shelf for new books. Crewmembers gave vote of thanks to steward department. as usual. Chairman announced cap­ tain approved new VCR for ship. Many votes of thanks given to gal­ ley gang for great food preparation. Special thanks extended to OS Eddie Gofich for keeping un­ licensed areas super clean. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. SEALIFT CARIBBEAN (IMC), February 27—Chainnan Jerry Borucki, Secretary Dorothy Takahashi, Educational Director Ray Prin. Deck Delegate Eric Lund. Engine Delegate J. Kissanis, Stev?ard Delegate Beverly Harris. Secretary noted crew needs new dryer in crew laundry and new mattresses. He thanked deck department for Job well done. Deck delegate reported beef. No beefs or disputed OT reported by engine or steward delegates. Crew requested new no-skid pads in gal­ ley. Next port: Charleston, S.C. SEALIFT INDIAN OCEAN (IMC), February 6—Chairman Fred Collins, Secretary Franz Winiker, Engine Delegate A. Cook, Steward Delegate Gloria Gottschlich. Chairman announced microwave oven needs repair or re­ placement. He added very good work being done by entire crew aboard vessel. Educational director urged members to view education­ al films and to upgrade at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew reported Seafarers LOGs received. Crew requested new belt for dryer. Next port: Sin­ gapore. SEA-LAND VOYAGER (SeaLand Service), February 23Chairman J. Lundborg, Secretary L. Ligbtfoot, Educational Director B. Landis, Engine Delegate T. Ab- STONEWALL JACKSON dulla. Steward Delegate D. (Waterman Steamship), February Flanker. Chairman thanked crew3—Chairman John McDonald, members for working hard during Secretary T. Hanson, Educational entire trip. Secretary informed Director Frank Quebedeaux, crew of new menu items. Educa­ Deck Delegate Robert Cbristentional director advised all crewsen. Engine Delegate W. Parrisb, members to upgrade at Piney Point Steward Delegate A. Bell. Chair­ and support union by donating to man announced payoff in New Or­ SPAD. Deck delegate reported dis­ leans. Secretary thanked crew for puted OT; No beefs or disputed OT job well done. Treasurer reported reported by engine or steward $480 in movie fund. No beefs or delegates. Crew stated Seafarers disputed OT reported. Crew stated LOGs not received in Yokohama Seafarers LOGs and "Scandal at Sea" video received. Crew re­ quested additional chairs in mess hall. Chairman urged members to remove clothing from washers and dryers promptly and to be careful when closing doors. WESTWARD VENTURE (InterOcean Management), February 1— Chairman T. M. Murphy, Secretary M. Gramer, ^ucational Director Lorance Pence, Deck Delegate Duffy Joyce, Steward Delegate H. Bubaker. Chairman discussed Seafarers LOG article ex­ plaining new maritime policy in Congress. Educational director reminded members to upgrade at Lundeberg School and donate to SPAD to maintain strong maritime industry. No beefs or disputed OT reported. (Chairman noted company plans to repair crew lounge furniture and rooms during shipyard stay. Crew thanked steward department for job well done. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. DSNS WILKES (Bay Ship Management), February 6-—Chair­ man James Souci, Secretary Vicki Holloway, Educational Director Eric Sutton, Deck Delegate Jonatbon Davis, Engine Delegate Jeffrey Willis, Steward Delegate Donald Mann. Chairman thai^ed crewmembers for separating trash properly. Education^ director advis^ members to upgrade skills at Piney Point and submit applications early. Treasurer reported $363 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew commended galley gang on great food and discussed haviiig TV on during meal hours. Bosun noted coasters to be put on bottom of chair legs in mess haU to prevent sliding during rough weather. Chairman announced com­ pany purchasing new washer and dryer for crew laundry. Crew re­ quested tile throughout vessel be replaced and new table in mess hall be purchased. Crewmembers ob­ served moment of silence in memoiy of departed union brothers and sisters. Know Your Rights i% ; -.V -^S-;::-, #?i® :t; v%i*' '«SSiH t;;;,i'Sf X- FINANCIAL REPORTS. The constitution of the SIU At­ lantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership's money and union finances. The constitution re­ quires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the secretarytreasurer. A yearly finance com­ mittee of rank-and-file members, elected by the membership, each year examines the finances of the union and reports fiilly their find­ ings and recommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District are administered in accordance with the provisions oif various trust fund agreements. All these agreements specify that the trus­ tees in charge of these funds shall equally consist of union and management representatives and their alternates. All expenditures and disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval by a majority of die trustees. All trust fund financial records are available at the headquarters of the various trust funds. SHIPPING RIGHTS. A member's shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusive­ ly by contracts between the union and the employers. Members should get to know their shipping rights. Copies of these contracts are posted and available in all union halls. If members believe there have been violations of their shipping or seniority rights as contained in the contracts be­ tween the union and the employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by cer­ tified mail, return receipt re­ quested. The proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as rcfened to are available to mem­ bers at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers Appeals Board. CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU contracts are available in all SIU halls. These contracts specify the wages and conditions under which an SIU member works and lives aboard a ship or boat Mem­ bers should know their contract rights, as well as their obligations, such as filing for overtime (OT) on the proper sheets and in die 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 idiould 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 pur­ poses of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing ar­ ticles deemed harmful to the union or its collective member­ ship. This established policy has been reaffirmed by membership action at the September 1960 meetings in all constitutional ports. The responsibility for Seafarers LOG policy is vested in an editorial board which con­ sists of the executive board of the union. The executive board may delegate, from among its ranks, one individual to carry out this responsibility. PAYMENT OF MONIES. No monies are to be paid to anyone in any official capacity in the SIU unless an official union receipt is given for same. Under no cir­ cumstances should any member pay any money for any reason un­ less he is given such receipt. In the event anyone attempts to require any such payment be made wiffiout 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. CONSTITl/TIONAL kiGHTS AND OBLIGA­ TIONS. Copies of the SIU con­ stitution are available in all union halls. AU members should obtain copies of this constitution so as to familiarize themselves with its contents. Any time a member feels any other member or officer is attempting to deprive him or her of any constitutional right or obligation by any methods, such as dealing with charges, trials, etc., as well as all other details, the member so affected should immediately notify head­ quarters. men and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connec­ tion with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above im­ proper conduct, the membeir 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 mem­ ber should support SPAD to protect and further his or her economic, political and social interests, and American trade union concepts. EQUAL RIGHTS. All mem­ bers are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clear­ ly set forth in the SIU constitu­ tion 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 en­ titled, the member should notify If at any time a member feels union headquarters. that any of the above rights have been violated, or that he or she SEAFARERS POLITICAL has been denied the constitution­ ACTIVITY DONATION — al right of access to union records SPAD. SPAD is a separate or information, the member segregated fund. Its proceeds are should immediately notify SIU used to further its objects and President Michael Sacco at head­ purposes including, but not quarters by certified mail, limited to, furthering the politi­ return receipt requested. The cal, social and economic inter­ address is: ests of maritime workers, the preservation and furthering of Michael Sacco, President the American merchant marine Seafarers International Union with improved employment op­ 5201 Auth Way portunities for seamen and boatCamp Springs, MD 20746. ma �••••ly APRIL 1994 SEAFARERS LOG 25 ^ t .'V -iC-S-t Umdebwg Si^wol Revises Rec^ tor Chlel CoiHcs The Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education recently announced plans to im­ plement an all-new chief cook upgrading program, beginning with a pilot course April 18 through June 26. "After this pilot program, the entire course will be re-evaluated and then started again on a per­ manent basis," said Lundeberg School Culinary Director Don Nolan. "The course has been to­ tally revised in order to maximize the learning opportunity for each student. As part of that revision, the course no longer will be open- ended." Twelve Seafarers will take part in the pilot course, although future classes may have twice as many upgraders, Nolan said. (At press time, there were a few spaces available in the pilot course.) Galley gang members who want to apply for the pilot or later courses (dates to be announced) should complete and mail the coupon on page 27 of this issue of the Seafarers LOG, or they inay contact their port agent or ^ Lundeberg School for more infor­ mation. Upgraders in the chief cook course will alternate weekly be­ tween the Lundeberg School's new lecture/demonstration galley and the production galley. The lessons are designed so that each depends in part on the knowledge and skills acquired in the previous lesson. Some of the topics to be covered include basic cooking methods, seasoning and flavor­ ing, recipe and menu planning, stock, sauces and soups, meat and game, poultry, seafood, starches, vegetables, breakfast and dairy, salad, sandwiches and hors d'oeuvres. Practical testing and weekly quizzes also will be part of the curriculum. Other topics integrated during the entire 12-week period are sanitati i nutrition, safety, tools and e / ipment, food-service math, weights and measures, in­ ventory control and computer lab. Students are expected to bring their own knives. Recommended knives are: an 8-inch chefs knife, a 6-inch flexible boning knife, a 3-inch paring knife and a vegetable peeler. SAB Approves Shipping Rui^ Changes "During the specific period oj D.2. which reads: "Conditions in Continued from page 21 employment, their tours of dut' the industry shall be continuously port registered relative to his shall be approximately four (4, monitored, and six (6) months return to the vessel. He must months on and two(2) months off. after I. and 2. above are in­ return to the vessel at the comple­ Work schedules may be modified stituted, the Seafarers Appeals tion of his relief by re-claiming subject to the vessel's operationa Board shall determine whether his job from the hiring hall ship­ necessities, and as mutually the procedures shall continue or Upgraders in the new chief cook program will do extensive training in ping board no later tMn the day agreed to between the Union anc' be terminated." the Paul Hall Center's modern lecture/demonstration galley (above). prior to the vessel's arrival in the Company. Pursuant to in­ port. If the relief period ends and dustry practices, seamen covered the ship is at a port other than at by this subsection (q) leaving a the port where the seaman was vessel for medical reasons shaL relieved, he shall be cleared for not be qualified to return to the re-shipment at the port where vessel when declared "Fit for registered. When such jobs are Duty." 29 Die In Runaway-Flag the deaths of 47 people. reclaimed, the Dispatcher shal "Seamen receiving Main­ Collision In Istanbul In a 232-page report, an inter-agency task force provide the Port Agent where the tenance and Cure benefits during concluded there was no evidence suggesting that vessel is located and the Man­ their relief shall forfeit the right An explosive collision between two Greekpower Office with the following to return to the vessel under this owned, Cyprus-flagged vessels on March 14 in anyone consciously disregarded a substantial and information: Name, rating, social Trip Relief procedure. Istanbul's Bosphorus Strait resulted in the deaths of unjustifiable risk which caused a loss of human life. security number, registration 29 crewmembers and left oil slicks up to 25 miles The task force also found that no state law was "Except as specifically card number and seniority clas­ provided in this subsection (r), long which caused environmental and wildlife violated when the barges pushed by the Mauvilla rammed the bridge at the bayou minutes before the sification of the permanent the provisions applicable to the damage. train plunged into the muddy waters. rating. Neither ship had a pilot on board when the dry permanent ratings specified in The National Transportation Safety Board is "On vessels arriving on a Rule 12 (a) above shall also be cargo vessel Ship Broker and the tanker Nassia weekend, jobs must be reclaimed applicable to seamen specified in crashed at the Black Sea entrance to one of the continuing its investigation and will issue a by the permanent rating no later this subsection (r). world's busiest shipping lanes, according to pub­ separate report on the derailment this summer. than the Friday preceding the lished reports. "(s) It will be incumbent upon 4 4 ^ vessel's arrival in port. If Friday the Company, when ordering re­ The Nassia spilled an unspecified amount of the is a recognized holiday in the port placements, to notify the Man­ 98,500 tons of crude oil that it was transporting where registered, the job must be power Pool Coordinator when from Russia to Italy. The vessel, owned by Lemar SlU-Crewed Empire State reclaimed on the preceding seamen are leaving and rejoining Shipping, reportedly sustained major damage from Finishes Somalia Pullout Thursday. Seamen failing to com­ their vessels pursuant to Rule the massive fire which erupted upon impact. The SlU-crewed Empire State left the port of A much smaller fire broke out on the Ship Mogadishu on March 24, carrying American troops ply with the reship procedures 12." shall forfeit their right of reclaim Add new language 8. Dis­ Broker, which is owned by Seabase Shipping, Ltd and marking the end of 15 months of operation in Sixteen crewmembers (three Greeks and 13 Somalia by the U.S. Military Sealift Command and shall register pursuant to the cipline, B.2. to read as follows: provisions specified in Rule 2, '2. The hearing committee shall Filipinos) were rescued from the Nassia, while five (MSG). Shipping Procedures." From the start of relief efforts in the war-ravaged prepare a written specification of (three Maldivens and two Greeks) were saved from Add new language 5. charges and notice of hearing, the Ship Broker. African nation. Seafarers played an active and im­ This was the 40th shipping accident in the Bos­ portant role. SlU-crewed military prepositioning Preferences and Priorities, I3(n), which shall be sent to the subject to read as follows: "(n) Per­ seaman by certified mail, ad­ phorus area since 1960. vessels from Diego Garcia sailed across the Indian manent ratings leaving a vessel dressed to his last known Ocean to Somalia days before the first Marines si. sL for medical reasons shall be residence. Such notice shall pro­ landed on Dec. 9,1992. qualified under the Rules to vide at least two (2) weeks' time At the height of the intervention in December rejoin the same vessel after he has for the seaman to prepare his American Maritime Officers 1992,17 SlU-crewed vessels were involved in the acquired a "Fit for Duty Status, defense and shall give the seaman Withdraws from National MEBA relief effort. provided that he registers for up to one (I) week before the SlU-crewed ships delivered trucks, tractors, The American Maritime Officers (AMO) on employment within forty-eight hearing date to request a change March 20 formally withdrew from the National troops, ready-to-eat meals, medical supplies and (48) hours, excluding Saturdays, of date or location of such hear­ Marine Engineers Beneficial Association (MEB A). other materiel. They also provided food and am­ Sundays and Holidays, after ing. The hearing committee shall Such a withdrawal from National MEBA had munition for American troops. receiving his "Fit for Duty. initially locate the hearing at the been authorized by AMO members in a two-month, In all, nearly a million tons of military cargo Time off pursuant to this Union hiring hall closest to the unionwide secret ballot referendum that ended were deployed. provision shall not be less than subject seaman's last known February 15. The members voted almost unani­ fifteen (15) days nor exceed one residence. Pending the hearing, mously to permit AMO President Michael McKay *1. 4- *1. hundred twenty (120) days. The the seaman may register and ship and the union's executive board to sever ties with four (4) month employment in accord with these Rules and in National MEBA if the officials found such action Braer's Owners, Captain period shall be reduced by the his current seniority, except that necessary to protect AMO jobs, contracts and Will Not Be Prosecuted number of days of medical the charged seaman shall not be autonomy, the AMO said in a statement released Scottish authorities last month announced that relief." permitted to ship to the charging last month. the American owners and Greek captain of the The sixty (60) day relief period Company's vessels until the hear­ McKay later said that this action "will in no way Braer, the runaway-flag ship that ran aground on provided for in Rule 13 (a) may ings have been concluded. alter AMO's relationships with other unions at sea the Shetland Islands and spilled almost 85,000 tons be extended for medical reasons 'All efforts will be made by the or ashore or change AMO's essential mission of oil into the North Sea in January 1993, will not according to the above. Board for hearings conducted sustained opportunity for AMO members in foreign be prosecuted. Add new language 5. under this section to be completed and domestic trades." The reasoning for the decision, based on infor­ Preferences and Priorities, in an expeditious manner." mation supplied by authorities in the Shetland Is­ I3(r),(s), to read as follows: "(r) Add new language in 10. Spe­ 4. J. J. lands to the Crown Office in Edinburgh, was not All seamen employed aboard cial or Emergency Provisions, given. The final report on the investigation into the Tanker class vessels above the J.I., to read as follows: "D. 1. y|o Criminal Charges disaster will be released either this month or next entry level, excluding such Seamen who have retired from Found In Amtrak Disaster month. ratings as specified in subsection the industry shall be permitted to The Braer was owned by Bergvall & Hudner (a) (Aove, and who possess Class compete for employment aboard A six-month investigation by the state of and managed by B & H Shipmanagement Co., both "A" or "B" employment seniority, contracted vessels designated by Alabama into the September derailment of of Stamford, Conn. The Liberian-flagged vessel shall be permitted to remain the Seafarers Appeals Board, Amtrak's Sunset Limited has concli^d and found lad a Greek Captain (Alexandres Gelis) and Greek, aboard a specific vessel for a yrovided they can pass the physi­ no criminal wrongdoing by any of the tugboat crew­ Filipino and Pakistani crewmembers, none of members involved. The tug Mauvilh struck a period of time not to exceed six­ cal examination." whom was seriously injured. It was chartered by teen (16) months, subject to the Delete last paragraph in 10. jridge in Big Bayou Canot outside of Mobile, Ala., Canada Ultramar Ltd., a Canadian oil group. vessel's operational necessity. Special or Emergency Provisions, causing the derailment of the passenger train and ''IL: i, ; • • i',: >»• . \-ip' -r 'Jjyj il-'' Ijp. • • / "-'Vt;/;'',•• . fj •• • ..i. • •S. • • X..-- •-"S "'h/- �Upgraders Lifeboat—With Instmctor Jim Brown (left) are January 12 upgrading graduates of the lifeboat class (from left) William Wynn, To-Nu Wallace, David Gregory and Martin Josephson Jr. Trainee Lifeboat Class 520—Graduating from trainee lifeboat class 520 are (from left, kneeling) Jonathan Owen, SImone Solomon, Kathryn Rivera, Sonia Felix, Brett Randall, Steven WItkowskI, Willie Jones Jr., Kurt Jacobsen, (standing) Daniel Rodriguez, John Bocchlchio, Labarron Johnson, Frank Adam Cook, Eddie Williams, Durrlell Williams, Ben Cusic (Instructor), Eric Martinez, Toderick McClary, Mark McKlnney, Joseph GrandlnettI, Marlon Tate, Christopher Coston and Eric Williams. / Marine Electronics Technician I—^The February 17 graduates of the marine electronics technician course are (from left, seated) Richard Buchanan, Marsha Dawson and Herman Manzer. Standing Is Instructor Russ Levin. Trainee Lifeboat Class 521—Graduating from trainee lifeboat class 521 are (from left, kneeling) Brian Lu, William Concldlne, Andrea Bryant, James Kelly Jr., Ben CusIc (Instructor), (second row) William Limited License—Completing the limited license course on Mohica Jr., Theron Bowen, Javier Gonzalez, Roy Frett Jr., (third row) Steven Thomas, Bryan Powell, Thpmas February 24 are (from left) James R. GIbb, Joseph M. Kane, Harry Christopher Johnson, Michael McCluskey, Rolando Cortez Jr., Christopher Nix and DIonce Bright. McGahan, Albert Cropek and Ron RaykowskI (Instructor). -• ^i^.:-' . ^U^vv Able Bodied Seaman—Certificates of completion were received by the March 8 class of upgraders. They are (from left, kneeling) Adam TaluccI, Roderick Hall, Fred Valgneur John CIncotta, Abraham Dalf, Antonio Gonzales, (second row) Casey Taylor (Instructor)Robert Darley, William Soto Jr., Chris Cobb, Darin Eastridge, Scott Hobbs, Marls Sepeiis, Timothy Vota, (third row) Robert Grove, Andr§ Frazler, Mark Weaver, Kenneth Frederick, Kenneth Boone, Alan Day, Timothy Duggan, Chris Perrine and Joe Gustafson. Advanced Firefighting—Upgrading members completing the adanced flreflghtIng course are (from left, first row) Byran Cummlngs (Instructor), David Rush Ingram, Patrick Cross, Maria Photiou, William Jarvl, Mark Domlnlak, (second row) Harry McGahan, Christian Wemer, John Onr, Phillip McKenzle, Damlan Krowlckl and John Smith (Instructor). : V?;- /: /- ••/ - V Diesel Engine—Receiving certification In diesel engine technology are (from left, seated) Greg Samatelakys, Jos6 A. Quinones, Geoffrey P. Denesse, (second row) Ralph Gosnell, Bradley K. Twiford, William J. Cariln, Pompey B. Alegado, J.C. WIegrnan (Instruc­ tor), Cellna Butler and John Schneider. �•- ' h'. • • A SEAFARBKSIM LUKDEBERG SCHm. 1994 UPGRADING COURSE SCHEDULE HecertiflcaCen Programs The following is the course schedule for classes beginning between May and September 1994 at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of 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. Course Check-In jPate Completion Date Able Seaman May 20 Jnly 15 September 9 Julyl August 26 October 21 Course Check-In Date Completion Date Bosun Recertification October 3 November 7 Steward Recertification July 5 August S Course Check-In Date Completion Date Assistant Cook, Cook and Baker All open-ended (contact admissions office for starting dates) Chief Cook, Chief Steward All open-ended (contact admissions office for starting dates) JL All students must take the Oil Spill Prevention and Containment class. Bridge Management (Shiphandlifig) May 6 July 29 May20 August 12 Radar Certifi(»tion May 20 June 17 July 22 August 19 September 16 May 27 June 24 July 29 August 26 September 23 July 1 September 9 August 12 October 21 JJmited License, Part 1 June 20 September 26 July 1 October 7 Limited License, Part 2 Julys July 15 Ljhnited License, Part 3 May 9 July 18 May 20 July 29 •» : ' I'v'"- • •• Celestial Navigation 27 Engine Upgrading Course Course ' • Check-In Date Completion Date All students must take the Oil Spill Prevention and Containment class. QMED - Any Rating August 1 October 21 FiremanAVatertender and OUCr September 12 October 21 Diesel Engine Technology June 27 July 22 Refrigeration Maint. & Operations August! September Si- Piimproom Maint. & Operations September 5 October 14 Hydraulics June 20 July 15 Marine Electrical Maintenance July 5 August26 Crane Maintenance September 12 October 21 . •• : " • ^ 1994Mult aiucatlen Schedule The foUowing courses are available through the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School. Please contact the admissions office for enrollment information. Safety Specialty Courses Course Check-In Date Completion Date Oil Spill Prevention and (Containment) June 17 Julyl August 26 Julys September^ Lifeboatman May 6 May 20 June 17 July 15 August 12 August 26 September 9 May 20 June 3 Julyl July 29 August 26 September 9 September 23 Basic/Advanced Fire Fighting Julys September 16 July 22 September 30 Sealift Operations & Maintenance May 9 July 11 September 5 June 3 August 5 September 30 "i" A, •A* . w June 24 (Middle) (RrM) (Last) Address. (Slreet) (Zip Code) (State) (City) Telephone _L Date of Birth. L (AieaCZode) (Month/Day/Year) Deep Sea Member [U Inland Waters Member• Lakes Member CI Check-In Date Completion Date GED Preparation 12 weeks - open-ended admission Adult Basic Education (ABE) 6 weeks - open-ended admission g; English as a Second Language (ESL) 6 weeks - open-ended admission Developmental Studies May 2 June 27 July 11 August 22 Septembers May 6 June 30 July 15 August 26 September 9 Session m September 12 November 4 Primary language spoken UPGRADING APPUCATWH Name Course VimiSm With this application, COPIES of your discharges must 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 and the front and back of your z-card as well as your Lundeberg Scltool identification card listing die course(s) you have taken and com­ pleted The Admissions Office WILL NOT schedule you until all of the above are received END BEGIN DATE DATE COURSE ..-•I If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Book# Social Security#. . Department Seniority U.S. Citizen: •Yes • No Home Port. Rating:. LAST VESSEL: Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held Date On: Date Off:. :S • • .DATE. Are you a graduate of the SHLSS trainee program? • Ves DNO SIGNATURE. If yes, class# Have you attended any SHLSS upgrading courses? • Ves DNO 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. If yes, course(s) taken. Do you hold the U.S. Coast Guard Lifeboatman Endorsement? dVes CINO Firefighting: [H Yes Id No CPRrldYcs / CDNO / ' RETURN COMPLETED APPLICATION TO: Lundeberg Upgrading Center; P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674. 4/94 / .i rk • k '--V > �SE4mMtEttS SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORTS SlU Pacific District Pension Plan — Page 19 SlU Pacific District Supplemental Benefits Funds, Inc. April 1994 Volume 56, Number 4 — Page 20 Baseball and the Sea Swell in the Letter Family In the Leiter family, there are a phone call. I also try to listen to two very distinct and true loves— games on the radio depending on the sea and baseball. where the ship is sailing." John and Karl Leiter fol Karl, who is sailing as an oiler lowed their father, Alexander, to aboard the SS Independence, dis sea to become second generation covered through an interview for Seafarers and fourth generation this article that Mark had been merchantjnariners. A1 and Mark released by the Detroit Tigers anc Leiter, their brothers, picked up signed by the California Angels on their father's love of basebal "I knew that he had been released and will be pitching in the major but I had no idea that he was al leagues again this year. Another ready signed by another team, member of the clan, Kurt, sailed Karl said in a telephone conversa­ with the SIU during the Persian tion from Hawaii. "So you see Gulf war after his baseball career how I sometimes get the lates ended in the minor leagues. news." John and Karl have found uni­ Because he lives in Hawaii, he que ways at sea to keep up with noted newspapers are his primary their ball-playing brothers. source for information. "I try to sail on coastwise ves­ John recalled that his father, sels;" John told a reporter for the who passed away in 1988, was a Seafarers LOG. "That way, I'm devoted family man whose life on in a port every two to three days the beach revolved around his and can read a newspaper or make family and the game of baseball. "We had a batting cage on the property," said John, who began his engine department career in A photo from the November 12, 1965 Seafarers LOG shows Bosun Alexander Leiter (left) bringing his 1983 as a graduate of the sons John, Karl and Eric to the New York hall. John and Karl sail today in the engine department. Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School. "All of us (including a his way up the hawsepipe and be­ sixth brother, Eric) went to came a mate in 1966, joining the )aseball camp. All of us played Masters, Mates and Pilots. After the war, he was on the varsity ball in high school. In fact, Karl was my catcher when I Coe Victory in Liverpool, England where he met his wife to pitched." According to a former ship^ )e, Maria. According to John, mate, Alexander Leiter was they fell in love and he brought k^nown as a pretty good ball ler back to the States. She already )layer. Angus "Red" Campbell, was used to dealing with men retired SIU vice president, sailed going to sea, as her father and with the elder Leiter on Bull grandfather sailed in the British ines vessels. "He always en- merchant marines. Although Alexander sailed in oyed baseball whether he was he deck department, he did not jlaying it, watching it or discuss­ encourage his children to do the ing it," Campbell said. same. Both John and Karl, who Alexander began his seafaring A rain delay in Philadelphia allows oined the SIU in 1989 after a stint Al and John to talk before a World career as a deckhand with the SIU in the Navy, followed his advice Series game. during World War II. He worked and went to work in the engine department. When dad did not have the sons practicing baseball, they were attending games in New York, Philadelphia and Boston, ohn revealed that despite the fact both Mark and Al wore Yankee pinstripes at one time, the family Jofin visits with his brother Mark prior to a game in Detroit. grew up as Mets fans. Last year, the Leiters got the thrill of seeing Al not only play in the World Series (major league baseball's championship), but The National Center for non-Custodial father, Harry also win one of the games for the Missing and Exploited Edwin Lewis, September 10, champion Toronto Blue Jays. Children has asked the 1993, Lacie Anne is now al­ "I didn't get to see him pitch Seafarers International Union most a year old. An FBI war­ Part of the Leiter clan gather for brother Al's wedding. From the left that game in person, but I did to assist them in locating Lacie rant has been issued in his are Kurt, Al, sister Alexia, John and Mark. watch it on television," John ad­ Anne Lewis. name for unlawful flight to Only six months of age avoid prosecution. mitted. "I did get to attend the when she was abducted by her series opener in Philadelphia At the time of her disap­ ;game 3), however." pearance from West Jordan, Utah, the brown-eyed, light This year, the Leiters will have brown-haired baby was 23 in­ to watch for scores from both ches tall and weighed 17 sides of the continent. Al is expounds. She has pierced ears, bected to be the fifth starter in and her brown eyes have blue "oronto's pitching rotation, around the edges. while Mark should be a relief Anyone having information bitcher and spot starter for on the whereabouts of Lacie California, which is based in Anne Lewis should contact the Anaheim. As John quickly National Center for Missing and bointed out, both are active mem­ Exploited Children at (800) 843bers of the baseball players union. 5678 or the Missing Persons Meanwhile, John is looking Unit of the West Jordan (Utah) brward to an addition to his team, Police Department at (801) 265During his time as an SIU patrolman, John (left) had a chance to see tie and his wife, Karen, are exLacie Anne Lewis 4056. his brother Karl aboard the Puerto Rico Marine vessel Humacao. becting a child later this year. Help Locate This Mis^ng Child rgit'^iiiWTWi ' • ' - I" Iffy,;: Ar •. '- rH',::'.-- •,}l - J' V ' V:.-;.!' � 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 April 1994 Description An account of the resource Headlines: COMMERCE DEPT. OFFERS AID PACKAGE AFTER NEW ENGLAND FISHERMEN PROTEST E.N. BISSO CREWS VOTE SIU BY 2-1 FIRED CAPT. RETURNS TO WORK AFTER MTD PROTESTS DISMISSAL HOUSE TAKES UP WATERWAYS SAFETY BILL CLEAN-UP EFFORTS CONTINUE ALONG SAN JUAN BEACHES ADMINISTRATION'S MARITIME PLAN BECOMES BILL SHIPBUILDING TALKS COME UNDONE CONGRESS, LABOR VOICE SUPPORT FOR REVITALIZATION SEVERE ICE BUILDUP STALLS START OF '94 LAKES SEASON CONGRESS FUNDS ICE CUTTER FOR OPERATIONS THROUGH YEAR 'LAST CONVOY' TO RENDEZVOUS IN NORMANDY 'RED' RECALLS D-DAY SCENE NEWLY ISSUED BENZENE CARDS CLARIFY RENEWAL DATES HOUSE PANEL CALLS ON EMPLOYERS TO PROVIDE HEALTH CARE BENEFITS BOSUN RETIRES AFTER 50 YEARS AT SEA SEAFARERS AND FAMILIES CAN VACATAION AT PINEY POINT MEMBERS OF NEWEST RECERTIFIED STEWARD CLASS SEIZE THEIR CHANCE TO UPGRADE CULINARY SKILLS PAUL HALL CENTER STRESSES HEALTHY MENUS PAUL HALL CENTER AUGMENTS RIVERBOAT SAFETY TRAINING SEAFARERS TOUT EMPRESS II AS BOON TO UPGRADING CLASSES KEY MARITIME ISSUES DISCUSSED AT UNION MEETING JACKSONVILLE PREPOSITIONING SHIP'S CREW READY AT A MOMENT'S NOTICE STEADY WORK, GOOD MORALE CHARACTERIZE BROOKS RANGE SEA-LAND QUALITY IS A HOME AWAY FROM HOME FRANCIS HAMMER CARRIES CHEMICAL CARGOES ALL OVER THE WORLD SEAFARERS AID MARINES IN READINESS DRILL ON THE USNS CURTISS LUNDEBERG SCHOOL REVISES RECIPE FOR CHIEF COOKS BASEBALL AND THE SEA SWELL IN THE LEITER FAMILY Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Scanned Issues 1984-1988, 1994-Present 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 4/1/1994 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. 4 1994 Periodicals Seafarers Log