Seafarers Log: Vol. 81 No. 9 (2019-09-01)

SEPTEMBER 2019 VOLUME 81, NO. 9

O F F I C I A L P U B L I C A T I O N O F T H E S E A F A R E R S I N T E R N A T I O N A L U N I O N A T L A N T I C , G U L F, L A K E S A N D I N L A N D W A T E R S , A F L - C I O

NY Waterway Christens Ferry
Page 3

Tacoma Tradition: SIU Members
Again Give Back to Community

Community outreach is a staple for Seafarers in the Pacific Northwest, includ-
ing the yearly project Paint Tacoma-Pierce Beautiful. SIU personnel recently
teamed up for the 2019 iteration; they spent a few days painting and repairing
the home of a local family. Pictured from left in the group photo at right are
some of the SIU participants: Henry Egaran, Joni Bradley, Sonny Lawson,
Ben Anderson, Robert Anderson and Warren Asp. Bosun Derik Rye is shown
painting in the photo below. Page 8.

Great Lakes Towing Co. Celebrates
Milestone, Christens Tug Michigan

Piney Point Completes Major Upgrades
Pages 12-13

Attendees had more than one reason to celebrate when they gathered in Cleveland on July 22. SIU-con-
tracted Great Lakes Towing Company marked its 120th anniversary, and also christened the new tugboat
Michigan. SIU Executive VP Augie Tellez and VP Great Lakes Tom Orzechowski were among those on
hand for the event. The Michigan was christened by vessel sponsor Carolyn Watkins (left), an official with
the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency. Page 24.

54929_SEPTEMBER_LOG_2019.indd 1 8/20/2019 6:54:16 PM



2 Seafarers LOG September 2019

The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 1086-4636) is published monthly by the
Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters,
AFL-CIO; 5201 Auth Way; Camp Springs, MD 20746. Telephone (301)
899-0675. Periodicals postage paid at Southern Maryland 20790-9998.
POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth
Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746.

Communications Director, Jordan Biscardo;
Managing Editor/Production, Jim Guthrie; Assistant
Editor, Nick Merrill; Photographer, Harry Gieske;
Administrative Support, Jenny Stokes; Content Curator,
Mark Clements.

Copyright © 2019 Seafarers International Union, AGLIW. All Rights
Reserved.

Volume 81 Number 9 September 2019

The SIU online: www.seafarers.org

The Seafarers International
Union engaged an environ-
mentally friendly printer
for the production of this
newspaper.

President’s Report

Reversed to White
Reversed to White

Our industry scored an important victory in late July, when
United States Senators from both sides of the aisle stood up for the
Jones Act. Specifically, they turned back two ill-conceived amend-
ments in the Coast Guard Authorization Act that would have weak-
ened America’s freight cabotage law.

The resounding, bipartisan votes in favor of fully maintaining
the century-old law that remains vital to U.S. national, economic

and homeland security must not be taken for
granted. This is a constant battle, which is one
reason why it’s also a regular topic of my col-
umns.

In a case of coincidental timing, during that
same stretch in July, the SIU’s most recent class
of recertified bosuns made separate trips to SIU
headquarters and then to the nation’s capital.
They learned about the behind-the-scenes work
our union constantly puts forth to protect SIU
jobs and the industry as a whole. They also saw
the results, in real time.

The following week, during their graduation
speeches, the bosuns all mentioned how their eyes had been opened
to the sheer, unrelenting grassroots effort it takes to promote and
protect the U.S. Merchant Marine. While our industry does indeed
enjoy strong support from many in the military, in the administra-
tion and in Congress, we also have enemies. Some are foreign-flag
interests, others are merely misinformed, but all of them threaten
American maritime.

The bosuns also, without exception, urged fellow members to
donate to SPAD, our union’s voluntary political action fund. SPAD
isn’t our only tool, but it’s important. We have a great rate of partic-
ipation but there’s always room for improvement. If you’re already
on board, I thank you. If you’re not, there’s never a bad time to join
the battle. As the saying goes, the job you save may be your own.

Successfully defending the Jones Act wasn’t the only recent pos-
itive development. As reported in this edition of the LOG, our affili-
ated school in Piney Point, Maryland, recently completed a massive
upgrade of its engine-department training facilities. This should be
a big boost for both entry-level students and upgraders. And, it’s
consistent with the school’s mission of producing the world’s best-
trained mariners.

We also joined with two of our contracted companies in celebrat-
ing new-tonnage additions, plus an anniversary. The Great Lakes
Towing Company christened a new tug while commemorating 120
years of business, and NY Waterway christened a fully refurbished
boat that has been added to its flourishing fleet of passenger ferries.
Such growth is a credit not only to the companies but also to the re-
liable SIU manpower that keeps those vessels running smoothly.

I also call your attention to our yearly feature on Paint Tacoma, a
very worthwhile project that the SIU has supported for many years.
For as long as I can remember, SIU members often have had tough
exteriors but hearts of gold. Our volunteers for Paint Tacoma sym-
bolize the membership’s generosity quite well.

Brothers and sisters, I’m confident we’ll continue to have plenty
of good news to report for many years to come. But, as with any-
thing in life, nothing will be given to us. You have to continue with
your outstanding professionalism aboard ship. The union must
maintain our political activism as well as working closely with our
contracted operators and all of the agencies that affect maritime.
And our school must provide the best possible training for every
student, whether an apprentice or an upgrader.

Our future is bright.

Michael Sacco

Big Win, and More Progress

O F F I C I A L P U B L I C A T I O N O F T H E S E A F A R E R S I N T E R N A T I O N A L U N I O N A T L A N T I C , G U L F, L A K E S A N D I N L A N D W A T E R S , A F L - C I O

Pro-Maritime Bill Reintroduced

U.S. Rep. John Garamendi
(D-California) and U.S. Sen.
Roger Wicker (R-Mississippi)
in July reintroduced the Ener-
gizing American Shipbuilding
Act in their respective halls of
Congress.

The legislation, strongly
backed by the SIU, would sup-
port U.S. shipbuilding by stipu-
lating that a portion of liquefied
natural gas (LNG) and crude
oil exports be transported on
U.S.-built, U.S.-crewed vessels.
Specifically, the measure would
require that vessels built in the
U.S. transport 15 percent of total
seaborne LNG exports by 2041
and 10 percent of total seaborne
crude oil exports by 2033. If en-
acted, the bill is expected to in-
duce the construction of dozens
of ships, support thousands of
jobs in U.S. shipyards, as well
as in the domestic vessel com-
ponent manufacturing and mari-
time industries. According to an
estimate from the Shipbuilders
Council of America, the bill
would result in the construction
of more than 40 ships: approxi-
mately 28 LNG carriers by 2041
and 12 oil tankers by 2033.

Wicker and Garamendi on
March 26 sent a letter to the
Trump Administration encour-
aging it to secure export oppor-
tunities for American mariners
and shipyards as part of any
trade agreement negotiated be-
tween the United States and the
Peoples Republic of China.

In that correspondence, Ga-
ramendi said: “America is on

pace to be the third largest pro-
ducer of LNG exports by 2020.
If we don’t use these trade ne-
gotiations to require our LNG
exports to ship on U.S. vessels,
the United States will continue
exporting its LNG on foreign-
flagged ships manned by foreign
crews.”

He continued, “The U.S.-flag
international fleet has declined
60 percent since 1991 to just 80
vessels. These negotiations give
us the opportunity to reenergize
American shipyards and rebuild
our nation’s dwindling merchant
fleet, which provides a vital
economic stimulus and critical
sealift capacity for our military.
I look forward to establishing a
dialogue with the administration

on this matter, and I thank Sena-
tor Wicker for leading the effort
in the Senate to grow the U.S.-
flag fleet.”

“The United States should
seize every opportunity to bol-
ster our domestic maritime in-
dustry,” Wicker said. “As we
pursue stronger trade agree-
ments with China and other
nations, I urge the administra-
tion to consider supporting the
American merchant marine
fleet by requiring liquid natu-
ral gas and crude oil exports be
transported by U.S.-flagged and
crewed vessels.”

Garamendi and Wicker ini-
tially introduced the legislation
in December 2018 during the
115th Congress.

Bipartisan Legislation Promotes U.S. Shipbuilding, Crews

‘Jones Act is About Protecting America’
A former U.S. congressman

recently wrote a powerful de-
fense of America’s freight cabo-
tage law.

Ernest Istook, a former Re-
publican member of the United
States House of Representatives
from Oklahoma’s 5th Congres-
sional District, posted an op-ed
headlined “The Jones Act is
About Protecting America.” Cur-
rently a political science profes-
sor, Istook plainly spelled out
how the century-old law remains
vital to U.S. national, economic
and homeland security.

“In recent weeks, opinion
writers in a number of leading
agriculture industry publications
have been encouraging American
farmers to ship their products in
foreign vessels, arguing that it’s
cheaper,” he began in his ar-
ticle, which first went online in
mid-July. “They have also been
urging repeal of the American
law that is the last thin lifeline
of the once-robust shipbuilding
industry in the United States.
Unfortunately, this line of think-
ing reflects the blindly globalist
agenda that has been the bane of
America’s economy for the last
50-years.”

Istook specifically pointed
to a piece attacking the Jones
Act “in favor of this globalist
agenda.” That author, accord-
ing to Istook, “starts by ignoring
the economies of scale to ship
grain. It will always cost more
per unit-mile to ship any product
on shorter routes and on smaller
vessels between domestic ports
compared to shipping the same
thing to Asia. After the mislead-

ing number on shipping cost, [the
writer] then recites libertarian
globalist talking points for undo-
ing the Jones Act.”

The former congressman
continued, “The biggest ben-
eficiaries of repeal would not
be American farmers but the
anti-American policies of other
countries. Ships built and crewed
by foreign powers can undercut
other prices due to massive sub-
sidies to their maritime industry,
trying to monopolize the market.
Cornering that market is enor-
mous since 90% of the world’s
cargo goes by ship.”

Not to be overlooked are the
massive investments made by
other countries in their respec-
tive maritime industries. As
Istook noted, “For some years
now, foreign countries have been
giving mega-billion-dollar subsi-
dies to win a monopoly over the
maritime industry. That allows
companies to offer sometimes-
lower prices for shipping grain
and other commodities, because
overseas governments are pay-
ing the difference. In China, for
example, these subsidies are es-
timated to provide a 15-20-%
advantage.

“South Korea is being sued
by Japan and the European
Union, whose own subsidies
can’t keep up with bigger ones
in South Korea,” he continued.
“So the World Trade Organiza-
tion (WTO) is being asked to
adjudicate. This would be simi-
lar to the WTO ruling this spring
that Europe’s subsidies for Air-
bus harmed the U.S. aviation
industry, leading to approval for

$21-billion a year in retaliatory
American tariffs on European
goods. It took the WTO 14.5
years to reach that decision. Hop-
ing for a similar ruling against
foreign shipbuilding subsidies
would take who knows how
long? This is why the United
States must have its own policies
to protect our jobs and security.”

He described the Jones Act’s
impact as “far too small to over-
come other countries’ massive
incentives to shipbuilders, yet it
benefits our homeland security.
Only the need to construct our
military ships has kept America’s
shipbuilding industry afloat.”

For instance, he wrote, the
law’s “requirements are lim-
ited to cargo shipped from one
U.S. port to another U.S. port,
and not the far-more-massive
trade between the U.S. and for-
eign ports. In other words, only
purely domestic shipping is af-
fected, which is a homeland se-
curity issue. Similar laws in other
countries are used to protect their
internal waterways as well.”

Istook concluded, “Those
who would subvert the Jones
Act are part of the never-ending
effort to discourage incentives
to Buy American. The debate is
as old as the United States. Our
very first Congress adopted laws
to promote both a strong pres-
ence at sea and to protect domes-
tic waters. The economist Adam
Smith argued that a strong mer-
chant fleet was vital to national
interests. Other countries may
offer us financial incentives to
weaken our shipping industry.
But we should tell them, ‘No.’”

U.S. Rep. John Garamendi
(D-California)

U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker
(R-Mississippi)

54929_SEPTEMBER_LOG_2019.indd 2 8/20/2019 6:21:25 PM



September 2019 Seafarers LOG 3

SIU-contracted NY Waterway has added to
its fleet of safe, reliable passenger ferries.

The company on July 24 hosted a ceremony
in Weehawken, New Jersey, where Lt. Gov.
Sheila Y. Oliver christened the Susan B. An-
thony. The boat joins NY Waterway’s fleet of
three-dozen vessels.

SIU Patrolman Ray Henderson attended
the gathering, which he described as small but
upbeat.

“It was a great ceremony – a sunny day on
the river,” Henderson said. “The lieutenant
governor gave a wonderful speech, as did (NY
Waterway President) Arthur Imperatore. The
members are happy.”

Capt. Frank Virginia and Deckhand Ste-
ven Matos, assigned to the new addition, also
were there for the christening, which took
place at the Port Imperial Ferry Terminal.

“It is with great honor that I join NY Wa-
terway to dedicate this boat to one of the most
consequential heroes in U.S. history, Susan B.
Anthony,” Oliver said. “She was often seen as
an outlier and a fighter, which are the traits of
every transformative figure that I admire. The
roots of her activism started at a very young
age and continue to inspire me and so many
others in our contemporary pursuit for social
equity in New Jersey and beyond.”

“It is fitting that Lt. Gov. Sheila Oliver,
who has dedicated her life to serving the peo-
ple of New Jersey, is here to christen the Susan
B. Anthony,” said Imperatore, founder of the
company. “Sheila Oliver is a living testament
to the wisdom, power and passion of women

in politics made possible by Susan B. Anthony
and the suffragettes…. Like all our ferries, and
the dedicated men and women who keep them
running, this boat will honor the example of
Susan B. Anthony and Sheila Oliver, serving
New Jersey commuters for years to come.”

“I am honored to participate in NY Water-
way’s boat dedication to one of my heroines,
Susan B. Anthony, who relentlessly crusaded
for the woman’s right to vote,” said New Jer-
sey Senate Majority Leader Loretta Weinberg.
“She was a true social reformer, activist and
fighter for social equality, which are many of
the same issues we continue to fight for today.
Her spirit will be a guiding light to this vessel
and I know somewhere she is looking down on
this dedication with pride and satisfaction as
we welcome her namesake into the ferry fleet.”

The Susan B. Anthony was built in 2002 by
Yank Marine in Tuckahoe, New Jersey, where
the NY Waterway ferries Molly Pitcher and
Betsy Ross also were built. These are the first
ferry boats built in New Jersey in memory. NY
Waterway has three other boats under construc-
tion at Yank Marine.

Originally named the Suzie Girl, the
Susan B. Anthony was used as a party fish-
ing boat on the Jersey Shore. NY Waterway
has completely restored it, returning her
to as-new condition, with a luxury interior
that’s standard on all NY Waterway ferries.
She is 65 feet long and 20 feet wide, capable
of carrying 130 passengers at 24 knots, and
powered by two American-made Caterpillar
engines.

In announcing the christening, the com-
pany noted that the Susan B. Anthony “will be
used on Hudson River crossings between New
Jersey and Manhattan. She also will join NY
Waterway’s proud tradition of providing emer-
gency service when other transit systems are
disrupted by weather or road and track repairs.
Since 1986, NY Waterway ferries also have
conducted emergency evacuations, bringing
hundreds of thousands of New Jersey residents
home safely after 9/11, the 2003 blackout and
other disasters. These ferries also have rescued
more than 300 people from various accidents
including 143 people rescued from Flight 1549
in the Miracle on the Hudson, the most suc-

cessful rescue in aviation history.”
Moreover, NY Waterway ferries carried

11,000 to 12,000 extra riders home to New Jer-
sey when PATH service was disrupted on June
27 and carried more than 10,000 extra passen-
gers home when the Lincoln Tunnel and Port
Authority Bus Terminal were closed July 3.

SIU-crewed NY Waterway ferries are con-
sidered by many as the most reliable transit
system in the New York metro area. They
carry upwards of 32,000 or more passengers
daily and maintain an on-time performance
rate greater than 99 percent. The boats serve
20-plus routes between New Jersey and Man-
hattan.

New Jersey Lt. Gov. Sheila Oliver (photo above) christens the NY Waterway ferry Susan B. Anthony. She is flanked by State Sen-
ate Majority Leader Loretta Weinberg and NY Waterway President Arthur E. Imperatore. (Photo courtesy Joe Sharp Photography)
In photo at right, Deckhand Steven Matos (left) and Capt. Frank Virginia are pictured aboard the Susan B. Anthony.

Union-Contracted NY Waterway Christens Ferry
Fully Restored Susan B. Anthony is Newest Addition

The new addition to the fleet can carry 130 passengers.

The U.S. Customs and Border Patrol
(CBP) recently celebrated 230 years of
service with a ceremony conducted at
APM’s Port Elizabeth terminal in Newark,
New Jersey – and SIU members helped
with the commemoration.

The SIU-crewed M/V Maersk Kinloss
served as a symbol of the first vessel to
arrive after the creation of the CBP on Au-
gust 5, 1789: the two-masted sailing ship
Persis. During the Aug. 5, 2019 ceremony,
the captain of the Maersk Kinloss, Chris-
topher Murray, presented the Application
for Unlading (CBP Form #3171) for the
vessel to CBP Director of Field Opera-
tions Troy Miller, and acting Port Direc-
tor Dylan DeFrancisci. Before a group of
senior port executives, CBP executives,
Coast Guard officers, media and other in-
vited guests, the Customs document was
duly signed and stamped, formally ex-
ecuting the permit in accordance with the
procedures of the late 18th century. In that
era, this process would also have included
the payment of the tonnage taxes due to

the Customs collector.
Maersk Americas Head of Corporate

Security and Regulatory Mark Tierney
spoke at the event, saying, “As we com-
memorate the very first vessel cleared by
U.S. Customs at the Port of New York
two centuries and three decades ago, we
must also recognize that each year, this
port alone receives and processes approxi-
mately 17,000 commercial vessel calls –
and the CBP is doing an outstanding job
in meeting the challenges of expanding
global trade volumes and increasing ves-
sel size and cargo capacities.”

A Customs duty fee of $774.71 was col-
lected based upon the assessed values of
the goods entering the port 230 years ago
aboard the Persis. In 2018, the total value
of U.S. merchandise imports exceeded
$2.6 trillion.

CBP is the second-largest source of
revenue in the federal government, col-
lecting approximately $52 billion in du-
ties, taxes, and other fees in Fiscal Year
2018.

SIU-Crewed Vessel Marks U.S. Customs Anniversary

The Maersk Kinloss, operated by SIU-contracted Maersk Line, Limited, approaches
the Port of New York on its way to a historic inspection. (U.S. Customs and Border
Protection photo by Anthony Durak)

54929_SEPTEMBER_LOG_2019_X.indd 3 8/21/2019 5:19:35 PM



4 Seafarers LOG September 2019

Tanker Saga Spotlights Runaway-Flag Shipping
When Iranian military forces seized a

commercial tanker in the Strait of Hormuz
in late July, the incident made worldwide
headlines.

Most of the stories focused on the es-
calating tensions in the Middle East, but
some also spotlighted what CNN described
as “the murky world of international ship-
ping, where shipowners can register and
re-register their vessels within minutes,
turning their crews into pawns in a game
of diplomatic chess.”

The vessel in question is a flag-of-con-
venience (FOC) or runway-flag tanker, the
Stena Impero. It is owned by a Swedish
company, flies a British flag, and carries
a multinational crew of 23. The mariners
are from India, Latvia, the Philippines and
Russia.

An FOC ship is one that flies the flag of
a country other than the country of owner-
ship.

SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel
is quoted in an online CNN piece about the
Stena Impero. The article by Ivana Kotta-
sová was most recently updated July 29.
It takes a detailed look at FOCs and their
many pitfalls.

Heindel also serves as chair of the In-
ternational Transport Workers’ Federation
(ITF) Seafarers’ Section. He told CNN,
“On flag-of-convenience vessels, non-na-
tional seafarers simply don’t have the same
rights that national seafarers would have if
they were employed.”

He also told the news outlet that mari-
ners may have trouble getting assistance
from their ship’s flag state if they’re not its
citizens. “That is especially true when the
flag belongs to a developing country with
little diplomatic power and no real labor
protections,” CNN said in summarizing
his comments. “At the same time, Hein-
del said, the diplomatic missions of the
seafarers’ own countries may not be able
to help either. It may be their citizens who
are involved, but they have no power over

the vessels. To make the matters even more
complicated, ships are allowed to switch
flags and re-register as they please, even
mid-journey.”

Another maritime expert quoted in the
article – Michael Roe, professor of mari-
time and logistics policy at the University
of Plymouth – said, “If you’ve got a credit
card, and you’ve got 15 minutes, you can
re-register your ship under any flag you
want.”

Some of the data cited in the article
likely didn’t surprise those already famil-
iar with the maritime industry, but for oth-
ers, the statistics may have been jolting.
For instance, the reporter pointed out that
approximately 40 percent of the world’s
fleet is registered either in Panama, the
Marshall Islands, or Liberia (whose reg-
istry is headquartered in Virginia). Yet
those three countries combined own
fewer than 170 ships.

Moreover, landlocked Mongolia has
265 vessels sailing under its flag.

The ITF has engaged in a decades-long
campaign against runaway-flag shipping,
and the SIU has been part of the effort.
The federation has brought thousands of
FOC ships under ITF contract while striv-
ing to promote a genuine link between
flag states and vessels.

As pointed out by the ITF, for workers,
runaway-flag shipping can mean “very
low wages, poor on-board conditions, in-
adequate food and clean drinking water,
and long periods of work without proper
rest, leading to stress and fatigue.”

The federation further notes that by
“flagging out, shipowners can take ad-
vantage of minimal regulation, cheap
registration fees, low or no taxes, and
freedom to employ cheap labor from the
global labor market.”

The ITF believes there should be a
genuine link between the real owner of
a vessel and the flag the vessel flies, in
accordance with the United Nations Con-

vention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
According to the federation, FOC registries
make it more difficult to hold shipowners

accountable; in many cases, the registries
themselves are not even run from the coun-
try of the flag.

The SIU had a strong presence at this year’s Texas AFL-CIO convention in San An-
tonio. Pictured from left are Rick Levy, president of the state fed; SIU VP Gulf Coast
Dean Corgey, who was re-elected as a district VP; Shwe Aung, ITF inspector, who
was elected president of the Asian Pacific American Labor Alliance of Texas (thereby
also making him a VP of the state labor federation); and Montserrat Garibay, secre-
tary-treasurer of the state fed. SIU Asst. VP Mike Russo and Port Agent Joe Zavala
also attended.

Solidarity in Lone Star State

The SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for
Maritime Training and Education re-
cently hosted top officials from the In-
ternational Bargaining Forum (IBF) for
meetings in Piney Point, Maryland. The
IBF brings together representatives
from the International Transport Work-
ers’ Federation (ITF) and the interna-
tional maritime employers that make
up the Joint Negotiating Group (JNG).
IBF agreements are only available to
shipping companies that are members
of the JNG and can only be signed
by ITF-affiliated unions. (Visit the ITF
website for comprehensive information
on the IBF.) Pictured here are meeting
participants touring the Paul Hall Cen-
ter in mid-July. SIU Secretary-Treasurer
David Heindel, who chairs the ITF Sea-
farers’ Section, is at far left in photo im-
mediately below.

School Hosts IBF Officials

54929_SEPTEMBER_LOG_2019_X.indd 4 8/21/2019 5:19:36 PM



September 2019 Seafarers LOG 5

SIU Asst. VP Nick Celona (left) attended the change-of-command ceremony for
the 23rd Marine Regiment, 4th Division. He’s pictured with the new commanding
officer, Col. Ross A. Parrish. The division is based in San Bruno, California.

Congrats to New Commanding Officer

Sen. Portman Named Lakes Legislator of 2019
A United States senator recently gar-

nered a prestigious maritime award.
U.S. Sen. Rob Portman (R-Ohio) early

last month was named the 2019 Great
Lakes Legislator of the Year by the larg-
est labor/management coalition repre-
senting shipping on America’s fourth sea
coast. The award is presented annually
by the Great Lakes Maritime Task Force
(GLMTF) to a legislator who has helped
advance waterborne commerce on the
Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Seaway.

The SIU is a member of the GLMTF.
Portman received the award Aug. 9 in

Cleveland, immediately after touring SIU-
contracted Great Lakes Towing Company
facilities.

“Senator Portman understands the im-
portance of marine transportation to our
national and regional economies,” said
John Baker, president of the coalition. “As
co-chair of the Great Lakes Congressional
Task Force, Senator Portman often works
in a bipartisan way on the complex issues
confronting the region.”

Baker, president emeritus of the In-
ternational Longshoremen Association’s
Great Lakes District Council, added,
“GLTMF is especially grateful that Sen.
Portman played a key role in passing the
Vessel Incidental Discharge Act as part of
the Coast Guard Authorization Bill. While
preserving a role for the states and the En-
vironmental Protection Agency, it charged
the Coast Guard with primary responsibil-
ity for implementing and enforcing vessel

regulations. Senator Portman negotiated
language that overwhelmingly passed the
House and Senate.”

“Senator Portman’s commitment to
workforce development and interest in
U.S. shipbuilding are other reasons for his
selection,” said Richard Hammer, first vice
president of the GLMTF and assistant gen-
eral manager of Donjon Shipbuilding and
Repair. “Presenting the award at the Great
Lakes Shipyard on the Cuyahoga River is
an appropriate venue.”

John Clemons, a GLMTF vice president
and national vice president for the Seafar-
ers-affiliated American Maritime Officers,
stressed that Portman’s support for a strong
U.S. Merchant Marine played a role in his
selection. “As a member of the Homeland
Security and Government Affairs Com-
mittee, Sen. Portman understands that the
economic security, homeland security and
national security interests of the United
States are best served by vessels crewed,
built and owned by Americans,” Clemons
said.

Jim Weakley, GLMTF vice president
and president of the Lake Carriers’ As-
sociation, noted that Portman’s support
for the many jobs along the waterfront
and the roles they play in the economy
are unquestioned. “Senator Portman
continues to work on environmental
and economic issues that benefit Lake
Erie and the entire Great Lakes region,”
Weakley stated. “His bipartisan nature
is a true testament to Midwest values

and Ohio’s tradition of statesmanship.”
“I’m honored to be named the 2019

Great Lakes Legislator of the Year by the
Great Lakes Maritime Task Force,” said
Portman. “As co-chair of the Senate Great
Lakes Task Force, I will continue to lead
the fight to protect our Great Lakes while
ensuring our shipping industry in Ohio
and across the region remains competitive.
Lake Erie is an Ohio treasure that provides
drinking water for three million Ohioans,
supports hundreds of thousands of jobs,
and draws millions of visitors each year. I
will continue to fight to help preserve this
treasure for future generations.”

With his selection as Great Lakes Leg-
islator of the Year, Portman becomes the
eleventh Ohio legislator to receive the
award since its inception in 1998. Previ-
ous recipients are Sen. John D. Glenn (D);
Rep. Louis B. Stokes (D); Rep. Steve La-
Tourette (R); Sen. Mike DeWine (R); Sen.
George Voinovich (R); Rep. Marcy Kaptur
(D); Rep. Stephanie Tubbs Jones (D); Rep.
Betty Sutton (D); Rep. Bob Gibbs (R) and
Rep. David Joyce (R).

Founded in 1992, the Great Lakes Mar-
itime Task Force promotes domestic and
international shipping on the Great Lakes.
With 78 affiliated organizations, it is the
largest U.S. coalition to ever speak for
the Great Lakes shipping community and
draws its membership from both labor and
management representing U.S.-flag vessel
operators, shipboard and longshore unions,
port authorities, cargo shippers, terminal
operators, shipyards and other Great Lakes
interests.

Its goals include ensuring Lakes dredg-
ing is adequately funded, construction

of a second Poe-sized lock at Sault Ste.
Marie, Michigan, bolstering the Coast
Guard’s icebreaking resources, protect-
ing the Jones Act and other U.S. maritime
cabotage laws and regulations, maximiz-
ing the Lakes overseas trade via the St.
Lawrence Seaway, opposing exports and/
or increased diversions of Great Lakes
water, and expanding short sea shipping
on the Lakes.

U.S. Sen. Rob Portman
(R-Ohio)

The last member of the AFL-CIO Execu-
tive Council to have served during World
War II passed away July 30.

Morton Bahr, president emeritus of
the Communications Workers of America
(CWA), was a shipboard radio operator dur-
ing the war before he came ashore to begin a
career that culminated in heading the union
that dealt with telecommunications workers.

“Morty was a great friend and a true union
man,” stated SIU President Michael Sacco.
“He was proud of the fact that he served in
the merchant marine
during World War II.
He was a man who
embodied all the old
virtues, most notably
loyalty and commit-
ment. Yet, he mar-
ried those qualities to
build a new vision of
the future.”

Sacco said Bahr
loved telling him
why he stopped
being a mariner. Bahr
had married his girl-
friend, Florence, dur-
ing a shore leave in
1945. Both of them
were teenagers. He
returned to sailing
and received a mes-
sage at sea that he
had become a father.
Bahr wasn’t able to
see his son for six
weeks. When he did
get home, he told
Florence he was going to
make one more voyage.
Her response (taken from
his autobiography “From the Telegraph to
the Internet”): “Go ahead. But the baby and
I won’t be here when you return.”

Bahr found a land-based job with McKay
Radio and stayed with the American Com-
munications Association, which he joined
upon sailing. Following a 1948 strike that
crippled the union, Bahr joined the CWA
and became an organizer at McKay, which

had become American Cable & Radio. By
1954, he was elected president of his New
York local.

In 1957, he joined the CWA staff and
was the lead organizer for the campaign
that brought 24,000 plant workers of the
New York Telephone Company into the
union. Four years later, he was appointed the
union’s New York director.

Bahr was elected District 1 vice president
in 1963. His jurisdiction included New York,
New Jersey and New England.

In 1985, Bahr
became the third
president in CWA’s
history. He took
over just after the
breakup of the
AT&T Bell Sys-
tem, which had
employed a half-
million union mem-
bers. He served
until his retirement
in 2005. He also
was a member of
the Maritime Trades
Department Execu-
tive Board during
those 20 years.

Bahr and Florence
remained together,
and they raised two
children.

CWA Pres i -
dent Chris Shelton
stated, “Not only
CWA members,
but the entire labor

movement, lost a giant.
Morty was comfort-

able whether he was in
the company of presidents of the United
States, in the halls of Congress, or on a
picket line. He was not only a great presi-
dent but he was a members’ president.
Morty loved fighting alongside members
in organizing drives and on the picket line
almost more than anything that he did as
president of this union. He will be sorely
missed.”

Communications Workers President
Emeritus Bahr Passes Away at 93

CWA President Emeritus
Morton Bahr

54929_SEPTEMBER_LOG_2019.indd 5 8/20/2019 6:21:28 PM



6 Seafarers LOG September 2019

Members of the union’s new-
est class of recertified bosuns
have diverse backgrounds, but
they share a strongly held belief
in the attractive career opportuni-
ties available with the SIU.

That message came through
time after time, often poignantly,
when 10 Seafarers graduated
from the recertification course
Aug. 5 in Piney Point, Maryland.
In keeping with tradition, they
gave speeches near the end of the
monthly membership meeting;
their remarks were well-received
by fellow upgraders, Paul Hall
Center apprentices, family mem-
bers and union officials.

Graduating from the two-
week class were Donley John-
son, Raymond Johnson, John
O’Shaughnessy, Christopher
Rosado, Lovell Smith, Shawn

Strand, Antjuan Webb, Ron-
ald Webb, William Lima and
Foaad Saleh. They completed a
two-week course that’s consid-
ered the top curriculum for deck
department mariners at the SIU-
affiliated Paul Hall Center for
Maritime Training and Education
(PHC).

The class includes reviews of
U.S. Coast Guard regulations,
updates on the latest PHC train-
ing, hands-on exercises with
simulators, and briefings on the
collective bargaining process. It
also features a town hall-style
session with apprentices, meet-
ings with representatives from
various union and Seafarers Plans
departments, and a trip to AFL-
CIO headquarters in Washington,
D.C., among other subjects.

Following are some highlights

of the graduation speeches, in
chronological order.

Shawn Strand
A 20-year Seafarer, Strand

kicked off his remarks by thank-
ing SIU officials “for all their
hard work protecting our jobs.
Because of you, I am able to have
a successful career to support my
family.” He also praised the PHC
instructors and staff.

“The leadership skills and
union education I have learned
in these last couple weeks was
top notch,” said Strand, who
sails from Tacoma, Washington.
“These skills will be carried over
to every ship I sail on.”

Like his classmates, he urged
fellow members to promote the
Jones Act and donate to SPAD,
the union’s voluntary political ac-

tion fund. “This is what keeps our
jobs safe,” he stated.

Strand added, “I would not
be where I am today if it wasn’t
for the old-timers passing their
seamanship down to me. All that
knowledge has made me a better
sailor, and I thank you.”

Donley Johnson
When he signed on with the

SIU 24 years ago, Johnson had
a five-year plan: “get in, make
some money, buy a house and
then get a ‘normal’ job,” he said.
“Well, I’m in the twenty-fourth
year of my five-year plan. I keep
sailing because this is my normal.
It’s a great career; I’ve been able
to provide for my wife and two
boys. I’ve seen a lot of really
interesting places and really cool
things.”

Johnson encouraged all Sea-
farers to take advantage of the
PHC. He also called the recerti-
fication class “a real eye-opening
experience. We met a lot of
individuals who are dedicated to
keeping the American flag flying
on ships. We learned about their
everyday struggle to defend the
Jones Act. It is truly an endless
battle. It was good to see our
SPAD money hard at work. So
please, contribute to SPAD, be-
cause our jobs depend on it,” said
Johnson, who sails from Jackson-
ville, Florida.

Foaad Saleh
There’s no mystery as where

Saleh found his influence for
joining the union.

Class members join SIU officials for a photo immediately following the meeting in Piney Point, Maryland. Pictured from left are Port Agent Victor Nunez, VP Joseph Soresi, VP Tom
Orzechowski, Recertified Bosuns Shawn Strand, Donley Johnson, Foaad Saleh, Antjuan Webb and Lovell Smith, SIU President Michael Sacco, Executive VP Augie Tellez, Recerti-
fied Bosun Christopher Rosado, VP George Tricker, Recertified Bosuns Raymond Johnson, Ronald Webb, John O’Shaughnessy and William Lima, and Secretary-Treasurer David
Heindel.

Bosuns Find a Home with SIU
Recertified Seafarers Underscore Career Opportunities

Recertified Bosun
Shawn Strand

Recertified Bosun
Donley Johnson

Recertified Bosun
Foaad Saleh

Recertified Bosun
Ronald Webb

Recertified Bosun
John O’Shaughnessy

Continued on next page

54929_SEPTEMBER_LOG_2019.indd 6 8/20/2019 6:21:29 PM



September 2019 Seafarers LOG 7

The newly recertified bosuns wrapped
up their respective speeches with advice
for Paul Hall Center apprentices. Here’s
a sampling:

“You are part of a great tradition!
Work hard, ask questions, and learn as
much as you can. Take pride in what you
do. You are the future of the SIU.”

--- Shawn Strand

“Have an open mind as to which
department you want to join. There is
something great and rewarding in all of
them…. Don’t be surprised to find out
that this is your ‘normal,’ too!”

--- Donley Johnson

“Take advantage of this great school
and look to the future. Study hard, ask

questions, and keep all of your mariner
documents up to date.”

--- Foaad Saleh

“Study hard while you are here. Learn
from your instructors. Learn to work to-
gether with your classmates. When you
go out to sea, work hard, carry your load
and never be afraid to ask questions.”

--- Ronald Webb

“It’s all about learning how to get
along with others and how safety is one
of the biggest issues. Ask questions – it’s
very rare that someone isn’t willing to
help.”

--- John O’Shaughnessy

“Join the ship with an open mind and a
willingness to learn. Work safe and listen

to your department heads. While over-
seas, practice the buddy system and try
not to travel alone. Save your money.”

--- Lovell Smith

“To be a good trainee and shipmate,
you need to have a good attitude and
good work ethic. Listen to your instruc-
tors, department heads and even your
peers. No one knows it all.”

--- Raymond Johnson

“The sky is the limit for all of you.
Where else can you start out cleaning
pots and pans, then end up being master
of your vessel? Be positive and, most of
all, be safe out there.”

--- William Lima

“You have a great opportunity to get

everything you need out of this program.
Take advantage, work hard, get along
with others and pay attention to these
great leaders here at the school. When-
ever you get on ships, always be respect-
ful and professional and work hard. Not
only do you represent yourselves, you
also represent the Seafarers International
Union.”

--- Antjuan Webb

“You are the future. Study hard, learn
from your instructors, and be a team
player. When you go out there, represent.
Work hard, ask questions. Be neat, be
early, be respectful. That will take you a
long way.”

--- Christopher Rosado

“I joined when I was 19 years old, after
I graduated from high school in 1994,” he
recalled. “The reason I joined the SIU is
because my father is an SIU member.”

Saleh, who sails from Algonac, Michi-
gan, doesn’t regret the decision.

“The SIU provides great contracts, and
they also fight for us for better wages,
reasonable hours and safer working condi-
tions,” he said. “The union ensures benefits
for me and my family.”

He said that the class trips to SIU head-
quarters and to D.C. provided valuable
insights about how the union, the Seafarers
Plans, and the Maritime Trades Depart-
ment (MTD) operate. In that vein, he en-
couraged all members to donate to SPAD
and support the Jones Act.

Saleh concluded with “special thanks”
to SIU President Michael Sacco and other
officials “for the effort they put in to keep
the SIU strong. This has been a wonderful
experience.”

Ronald Webb
Another longtime member, Webb joined

the union in 1986 in New Orleans (he now
sails from Fort Lauderdale, Florida).

“I didn’t know what I wanted to do (for
a career), and the union gave me direc-
tion,” Webb said. “The union pretty much
saved my life.”

He said the recertification course will
help him do an even better job aboard ship,
and stressed that the officials “need our
help to protect our industry and jobs. We
need to always do our best job, we need to
upgrade our skills, and we need to donate
to SPAD.”

John O’Shaughnessy
“I’ve been part of the SIU since 1983

when I was a trainee here in class 384,”
O’Shaughnessy began. “I’ve always tried
to do a good job, and that’s why I’ve lasted
this long.”

Currently sailing from Jersey City, New
Jersey, O’Shaughnessy said the SIU “has

been important in my life. It has given me
stable income, time to enjoy myself, and
benefits. I have enough (sea) time to re-
ceive a pension, and let me tell you, that’s
a good feeling.”

He thanked the PHC instructors and SIU
officials for their work, and underscored
the union’s “commitment to protecting our
jobs. During my visits to Camp Springs and
Washington, I saw firsthand their dedication
to the union and its members, and how hard
the battle is for survival. We as members
need to donate to SPAD so our union offi-
cials who represent us have the support they
need for their continuous battle on Capitol
Hill – and so we in turn can support our-
selves and our families.”

O’Shaughnessy added, “My time here
has been enjoyable. This is a beautiful
school, and I was treated with respect for
all my years of service.”

Lovell Smith
The other class member who sails from

Jersey City, Smith noted, “Twenty-four
years ago, I walked through these doors as
a trainee – a boy from New York with no
direction. Now, I stand here as a man that
gives direction.”

He said he first applied for the recer-
tification class 15 years ago, but things
worked out for the best.

“Looking back, I was not ready then,”
Smith stated. “Now, I stand here humble,
with more understanding, more knowledge
and more patience.”

He said the class was worthwhile and
summarized the work of a bosun as “not
about knowing how to tie every knot in
the book. It’s about people management,
conflict resolution, promoting safety and
morale-boosting.”

Smith thanked his family for their
unwavering support “and being so under-
standing of my absences through holidays,
birthdays and all the special events that I
could not attend.” Some of those family
members traveled hundreds of miles to

attend the graduation ceremony; his first
bosun, Brian Isenstadt, and other old
shipmates also attended.

Raymond Johnson
Describing the union as “a well-oiled

machine,” Johnson said one thing that
stood out in the class was “learning how
hard the leadership works to provide jobs,
protect the Jones Act and protect the liveli-
hoods of so many people. They are at the
forefront of the maritime industry to ensure
that we continue to have jobs and a strong
union with a good pension plan and a good
health benefits plan.”

He thanked the school’s instructors and
said the facility has “a good atmosphere
and great people.”

Johnson, who sails from Mobile, Ala-
bama, noted that he has been a mariner for
33 years, the last 29 with the SIU. He has
sailed around the world twice.

William Lima
Before becoming a Seafarer, Lima

started sailing with the National Maritime
Union’s (NMU) division for civil-service
mariners in 1987. “When we merged with
the SIU (in 2001), things got better,” he
recalled.

Lima has sailed from Boston, Brooklyn
and Jersey City, but currently calls Piney
Point his home port.

“This union has always supplied me
and many others with good-paying jobs
throughout the years,” he said.

Lima said the leadership course in par-
ticular will help him “be a little more tact-
ful without yelling so much.”

He concluded by expressing confidence
in the union’s officials.

“There’s a lot of people out there who
would like to see this union fail and the
Jones Act disappear, for their own selfish
gain and greed,” Lima said. “Luckily, we
have a whole slew of dedicated men and
women that work hard for us to keep this
union strong and proud for many, many

years to come.”

Antjuan Webb
“The union has played a very important

role in my life,” said Webb, who joined the
SIU in 1989 and who sails from Oakland,
California. “It took me off the streets and
kept me away from the people I’d been
hanging out with. They either went to jail
or were murdered. I believe God protected
me through the trainee program here at
Piney Point.”

Webb said the initial training “taught
me how to become a man – responsible,
disciplined, and a professional U.S. Mer-
chant Mariner.”

He thanked Sacco and SIU Executive
Vice President Augie Tellez “for being
concerned and passionate about our well-
being. I also thank the instructors and staff
at the school for their hard work.”

Webb said the class helped him realize
the vital importance of grassroots political
action, including SPAD.

Christopher Rosado
Another part of the graduation tradi-

tion is enduring the playful suspense about
who’ll be the last speaker – and in this
case, Rosado had the honors.

“I’ve had the pleasure of travelling the
world, meeting all kinds of people and
cultures and seeing things people pay good
money to see on cruise ships. The differ-
ence is, I got paid to see those places,”
said Rosado, whose home port is Santurce,
Puerto Rico.

He continued, “Being part of this SIU
family has made me the man I am today.
Because of the SIU, I’ve been able to provide
for my family and to have the lifestyle I have
today – and I have a pretty good one.”

Rosado thanked the officials and school
personnel, and encouraged fellow Seafar-
ers to support SPAD.

“It’s hard work, what these people do,”
he stated. “Our leaders need the resources
to make it happen.”

Apprentices Receive Advice From Those ‘In The Know’

Recertified Bosun
Lovell Smith

Recertified Bosun
Raymond Johnson

Recertified Bosun
William Lima

Recertified Bosun
Antjuan Webb

Recertified Bosun
Christopher Rosado

54929_SEPTEMBER_LOG_2019.indd 7 8/20/2019 6:21:30 PM



8 Seafarers LOG September 2019

SIU members in the Pacific Northwest
show no signs of letting up in their efforts
to give back to the community.

Most recently, SIU personnel teamed
up for the union’s annual participation
in Paint Tacoma-Pierce Beautiful, a re-
gional philanthropic project that began
in 1985. The union has been active with
the program (typically referred to as Paint
Tacoma) for 13 straight years. The sum-
mertime outreach normally consists of
painting the exteriors of houses of low-
income, elderly and disabled homeowners
within Tacoma, Washington, city limits.

SIU Port Agent Warren Asp headed
the union’s involvement this year, and
he came away impressed by the attitude,
effort and skills of the Seafarers team.
Collectively, they spent three days (80
man-hours) at a local home, where they
deftly gave it a facelift.

“We could not have asked for better
crews this year,” the port agent said.

Joining him were AB Abdulhak
Ahmed, AB Morgan Hayes, SA Robert
Seals, AB Robert Anderson, GUDE
Henry Egaran, AB Sonny Lawson,
Bosun Derik Rye, Oiler Luke Coffelt,
Recertified Bosun Richard Barnes,

Safety Director Ben Anderson and Ad-
ministrative Assistant Joni Bradley.

“The volunteers were a generational
mixture of SIU veterans and rookies
working side-by-side,” Asp said. “This
was also an introduction to the program
for our new Administrative Assistant Joni
Bradley. Joni has had big shoes to fill in
the port this year following Brenda Fle-
sner’s retirement, and she was up for the
challenge.”

Alberto Ortiz, a son of the homeown-
ers, was the SIU’s main contact for the
project.

“The SIU people did a very wonderful
job,” Ortiz said. “The house really needed
it, and I know my parents are very happy
and grateful. Thank you very much, on
behalf of all of us.”

Recertified Bosun Barnes has partici-
pated in Paint Tacoma several times. He
said this year’s iteration was worthwhile,
as usual.

“I enjoy giving back to Tacoma, putting
the SIU’s name out there and showing we
care,” Barnes stated. “The homeowners re-
ally appreciated our work.”

AB Lawson was a Paint Tacoma new-
comer and was no less pleased with the

group effort.
“I think it went really well,” Lawson

said. “Everything was organized and we
had lots of volunteers. You could tell that
everybody was chipping in and having a
good time. It’s a good program.”

GUDE Egaran has participated in prior
years.

“I like to volunteer and help,” he said.
“This was definitely worthwhile. At the
end, I told Warren, ‘Maybe next summer
we’ll do it again’”

Based on the SIU’s reliability, partici-
pation seems like a given, though not one
that’s taken for granted.

Meanwhile, Asp noted that Egaran
“was instrumental in stepping up and vol-
unteering every day that we had a team
working. From pressure washing to the
final touches, he was our Johnny on the
spot, so to speak.

“Also worth mentioning is our ap-
prentice program graduate AB Morgan
Hayes,” he continued. When we first got
to the house, there were shrubs and tree
branches that needed to be cleared so we
could work. Brother Hayes had the proper
tools in his truck to do a first-class prun-
ing job of all interfering foliage.”

Asp also credited the homeowners for
being “a delightful family that couldn’t
have been more pleased to have their
home getting a refreshed look. In sticking
with the generational theme that seemed
to be prevalent this year, the home com-
prised of grandparents to grandchildren
spanning close to 70 years. The family
brought out cold refreshments to make
sure the team wasn’t overheating, show-
ing their genuine delight with the job and
wanting to show their appreciation.”

He reserved his highest praise for the
Seafarers who turn out year after year.

“We always get members asking, ‘So,
when are we painting a house this year?’”
Asp said. “It has become a Tacoma staple,
and it brings this hiring hall great joy to
be involved with the community.

“Aside from generational diversity,
we also get a cultural diversity of volun-
teers,” he concluded. “From our Muslim
brothers to Filipino to African American,
Tacoma gets it all from all walks of life. It
speaks to a genuine desire for our mem-
bership to want to work side-by-side for
the betterment of something that is bigger
than themselves. We couldn’t be more
thankful for our membership here.”

Seafarers Participate in Annual Philanthropic Project

‘A Tacoma Staple’
AB Robert Anderson Oiler Luke Coffelt SA Robert Seals (front) and AB Morgan HayesGUDE Henry Egaran

Recertified Bosun Richard Barnes AB Abdulhak Ahmed Safety Director Ben AndersonPort Agent Warren Asp

54929_SEPTEMBER_LOG_2019_X.indd 8 8/21/2019 5:19:38 PM



September 2019 Seafarers LOG 9

At Sea and Ashore with the SIU

CONGRESSWOMAN BACKS MARITIME – In early August,
U.S. Rep. Elaine Luria (D-Virginia) (left) noticed coverage of
the SIU-crewed USNS Seay in the Seafarers LOG and pointed
out she once sailed aboard the vessel during her U.S. Navy
career. (She served two decades in the Navy, retiring at the
rank of Commander.) She’s pictured holding a copy of the LOG
at a Maritime Trades Department port council event in Norfolk,
with MTD Executive Secretary-Treasurer Daniel Duncan (a for-
mer editor of the LOG). Luria reiterated her support of the U.S.
Merchant Marine.

PRESIDENTIAL GREETING – From left: SIU President Michael
Sacco, future Seafarer Kemer Gennady Rojas and current AB
Kemer Rojas are pictured at the union-affiliated school in Piney
Point, Maryland.

ABOARD OVERSEAS KEY WEST – These snapshots were taken when the OSG vessel made a stop in Port Everglades, Florida, earlier this year. SIU Asst. VP Kris Hopkins is third
from left in the larger group photo in the center.

SBX CREWS RECOGNIZED – Vessel operator TOTE Services earlier this year treated SBX crew members to a dinner in their honor, and also presented certificates of appreciation
for nearly 600 continuous days at sea. Some of the attendees are pictured here. In photo at left are SA Billie Kawelo (left) and SA Apalogie Cruz-Labrador. Displaying certificates in
photo at center are (from left) QDW Timothy Van Pelt, Recertified Steward Cesar Dela Cruz, Storekeeper Connie Tarplin, Bosun James Reynolds, OS Ayesh Ahmed and SA Laura
Davies. The photo at right includes company executives, union officials, crew members and officers.

STARLIGHT CONTRACT APPROVED – Starlight Marine crews on the West Coast re-
cently approved a three-year contract featuring wage gains and other improvements. Cel-
ebrating the occasion are (from left) SIU Port Agent Nick Marrone II, crew members Paul
Gonzalez, Joe Corey, Victor Gonzalez, Chris Wooten and Marty Russo and SIU Asst. VP
Nick Celona.

MEETING WITH
MARINES – SIU
Asst. VP Nick Ce-
lona (second from
right in photo at
immediate right)
meets with U.S. Ma-
rine Corps officers
on the West Coast
to discuss national
security and the im-
portance of the U.S.
Merchant Marine
carrying materiel for
our troops. Pictured
from left are Lt. Col.
Thomas Chockly,
Ma j . M i chae l
Becker, Celona and
Col. Steven White.

ABOARD DANIEL K. INOUYE – Pictured aboard
the Matson ship in Oakland, California, are (from
left) Recertified Steward Edvaldo Viana, ACU
Moosa Mohamed and Chief Cook John Bennett.

54929_SEPTEMBER_LOG_2019.indd 9 8/20/2019 6:21:34 PM



10 Seafarers LOG September 2019

MATSON THANKS CAPE HUDSON CREW – When the Seafarers-crewed Cape Hudson re-
turned to San Francisco in late June following a seven-month mission, vessel operator Matson
hosted a celebration at a local restaurant. They thanked the crew for a job well done and for
making the mission successful. Pictured at the gathering are (from left) SIU Patrolman Adrian
Fraccarolli, SA Mohamed Shahbain, MEBA Patrolman Max Alper, Matson Crewing Coordinator
Julie Sarrico, Chief Steward Dorray Saberon, Maritime Administration RRF Program Director
Danny Defanti, Matson VP Jack Sullivan and SIU Port Agent Nick Marrone II.

ABOARD CAPE MOHICAN – Pictured aboard the Ocean Duchess vessel in late
July in Oakland, California, are (from left) Bosun Anthony Pace, Electrician Boleslaw
Szatkowski, Steward/Baker Salah Omar, GUDE Zaid Said, GVA Mohamed Omar
and SIU Port Agent Nick Marrone II.

At Sea and Ashore with the SIU

STEWARDS CONFER – Two recertified stewards are pic-
tured in Jacksonville, Florida. That’s Juan Vallejo (from the
El Coqui) on the left and Kim Strate (from the Taino) on the
right. Crowley operates the LNG-powered ConRos.

BOOKS GALORE IN HOUSTON

AB Dwayne Harris (right) takes the oath before receiving his full
B-book. ITF Inspector Shwe Aung is at left.

QEE Jimmie Williams (left) receives
his A-book from Patrolman Kelly
Krick.

AB Dixon Omar Guity Bonilla (left)
gets his full book from Safety Director
Kevin Sykes.

AB Francisco Martinez (left) proudly
displays his full book. He’s pictured
with Patrolman J.B. Niday.

ABOARD OVERSEAS LOS ANGELES – These photos were taken on the OSG ship in Martinez, California. Pictured from
left in the photo at left are Chief Cook Keith Hall, Steward/Baker Clifton Medley and SA Jessie Espiritu. Shown from left in the
other photo are Bosun Lionel Hall, Oakland Patrolman Adrian Fraccarolli, OSM Mykel Potter, GUDE Reynaldo Mambulao,
QEP Fernando Ortega and GUDE Gil Lawrence.

ABOARD LIBERTY GRACE – Pictured from left are
SIU Patrolman Kelly Krick, ABM Nieves Guerrero, AMO
2nd Mate Lauren Johnson, ABM Dixon Guity, and Pa-
trolman J.B. Niday. The Liberty Maritime vessel was at
Houston’s City Docks, not far from the hiring hall.

WITH SIU CIVMARS – These were
taken aboard the USNS William
McLean. Steward department mem-
bers (photo at left, from left) include
James Frasier, Elfatesha Carter,
Luis A. Ramos Jr., Antionette White,
Celeste Bracey and Laura Thomas.
In the photo at right, the deck crew
(and one engine department mem-
ber) includes Bosun Travis Laws,
Bosun Mate Robert Melendez, AB
Omary Ally, OS Jereau Scruggs, AB
Virgilio Abadam, Pumpman John
Mejia and Bosun Mate Joseph Te-
shara. Thanks to SIU Government
Services Division Representative
Sam Spain for the photos.

AB Kervin Guevara (left) gets his B-book from Port
Agent Joe Zavala.

54929_SEPTEMBER_LOG_2019.indd 10 8/20/2019 6:21:37 PM



September 2019 Seafarers LOG 11

At Sea and Ashore with the SIU

AT THE HALL IN SAN JUAN – Chief Steward Jesus Ortiz (left in photo at left) donates a
new grill for the hall. He’s pictured with Port Agent Amancio Crespo, who’s also at right in
the remaining photos. In photo at center is second-generation Seafarer FOWT Marcelino
Santos Bermeo, displaying his first registration since completing upgrading training at the
SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center. The remaining photo at right includes STOS Carlos Omar
Diaz, showing his first Maritime Defense League receipt.

WITH G&H BOATMEN – Pictured aboard the G&H Towing boat Andrew
K are Patrolman J.B. Niday (far left) and AB Jason Shaw, Master Travis
Shaw, Asst. Engineer Jesse Sendejas and Mate Nicholas Ellis. The photo
was taken in Galveston, Texas.

B-BOOK IN CHARM CITY – OS Abraham Tunguia
(right) receives his B-book from Safety Director De-
Carlo Harris at the hiring hall in Baltimore.

B-BOOK IN JERSEY – OS George Arthur (right)
receives his full B-book from Patrolman Ray Hen-
derson at the hiring hall in Jersey City, New Jersey.

ABOARD DECISIVE – Pictured from left on the Trans-
oceanic cable ship in Baltimore are Chief Cook Aaron
Helton-Cox, SIU Piney Point Port Agent Victor Nunez,
Chief Steward Ben Piker and Steward Assistant An-
thony Parks.

B-BOOK IN PHILLY – SA Ismail Saleh (right)
displays his newly acquired full B-book at the
hiring hall. He’s pictured with Port Agent Joe
Baselice.

ABOARD TUG KIOWA – Pictured aboard the Material Services boat are
(from left) SIU Deckhands Matthew McGinnis, Dustin Ferguson, Nathan
Rossiter and Chad Hogan. Thanks to Patrolman Tyson Little for the photo,
which was taken in Romeoville, Illinois.

ALGONAC SNAPSHOT – The SIU-crewed Great Republic (Key Lakes) passes the hiring hall in Algonac,
Michigan.

54929_SEPTEMBER_LOG_2019.indd 11 8/20/2019 6:21:39 PM



12 Seafarers LOG September 2019

PHC Opens State-of-the-Art Engine Department Shop
The Seafarers-affiliated Paul Hall Center for

Maritime Training and Education (PHC) recently
completed yet another major upgrade to the
school’s facilities.

The newly upgraded engineering shop fea-
tures state-of-the-art trainer systems, real-world
equipment and new lab environments that will
give students the best opportunity for learning
the various aspect of the engine department in a
safe, controlled scenario.

PHC Acting Vice President Tom Orzechowski
said, “The shop is completely retooled and set
for the next level of training. The building itself
went through a complete renovation, and we
added new classroom space adjacent to the new
electricians’ lab. New trainers encompassing
every aspect needed for upgrading and basic
training are now available and at the ready. This
brings our vocational shop up to date and pre-
pares us for the future.”

PHC Instructor Bill Dodd said, “The engi-
neering community is ever-evolving with the
introduction of newer electrical and electronic
equipment, more advanced mechanical appli-
cations and environmental concerns on board
ships. It is the responsibility of the HLSS (Harry
Lundeberg School of Seamanship) Marine
Training Department to incorporate the most
up-to-date equipment to train mariners in their
perspective vocations.”

The new equipment includes:
- A Pumps Trainer System, for teaching stu-

dents how various types of pumps operate and
function with the multiple piping systems on
board ships

- A Mechanical Trainer System, for teaching
how couplings, bearings, chain drives and gear
drives are incorporated in a mechanical system,
as well as how alignments are performed

- A Hydraulics Trainer System, for teaching
about hydraulics and what types of components
are in a hydraulic system for lifting, pushing, ex-
tending and retracting pieces of equipment that
are far too heavy to move by hand

- A Pneumatics Trainer System, to provide
students with understanding how air can accom-
plish many tasks

- A Steam Boiler Trainer System, to allow
students to better understand the steam cycle

- An Oily Water Trainer System, to provide
students an understanding of how to clean and
get rid of oily water waste aboard ships in accor-
dance with applicable laws and regulations

- A Lube Oil Purifier System, to help develop
a better understanding of how important clean
lube oil and fuel oil are to the effective running
of the ship’s engines

- Centrifugal Pumps and Motor Assemblies,
which allows hands-on training for students
when having to replace components or rebuild

centrifugal pumps onboard ships.
Another new addition, the Electrical Training

Lab, allows students to train for troubleshooting,
testing and repairing various types of electri-
cal issues that may arise aboard vessels. Each
student has access to their own group of electri-
cal components for testing, troubleshooting and
repair training.

Additionally, the Programmable Logic Con-
troller Units Lab allows students to develop
and implement sensor inputs/output logic for
multiple mechanical, pneumatic and electrical
systems aboard ships.

Finally, as previously reported, the engineer-
ing shop houses the up-to-date reefer contain-
ers – donated by SIU-contracted ship operators
– which allow mariners to train on the actual
equipment they will encounter on a vessel or
offshore work site.

Longtime mariner and electrician Mike Fay
offered his thoughts on the completed shop, say-
ing, “I think most would agree the reefer container
training is the top rung of the engine department
ladder. That is where all the other courses are
combined: electrician, refrigeration, high pressure
silver brazing, etc. The reefer units we train on are
the actual units from vessels; they are not models
or simulators as some other labs use.”

“Many of our trainers that we have taught
with were more than 20 years old, and have seen

better days,” said Dodd. “While static trainers
are useful, they do not represent the full level
of comprehension students need to demonstrate
their competency requirements for certification
and graduation.... It was decided that new train-
ing equipment needed to be acquired, so we may
continue to provide the very best training to the
new and seasoned mariner for years to come.”

Major Upgrades Completed in Piney Point
SIU President Michael Sacco (left) and Acting Paul Hall Center Vice President Tom Orzechowski tour the new
facility.

A steam boiler trainer

The new pump lab is one of many recent upgrades at the Paul Hall Center. Electrician Mike Fay (left) describes aspects of the shop to SIU Asst. VP Nick Celona during a recent tour.The refrigerated container lab

54929_SEPTEMBER_LOG_2019.indd 12 8/20/2019 6:21:40 PM

September 2019 Seafarers LOG 13

PHC Opens State-of-the-Art Engine Department Shop
better days,” said Dodd. “While static trainers
are useful, they do not represent the full level
of comprehension students need to demonstrate
their competency requirements for certification
and graduation.... It was decided that new train-
ing equipment needed to be acquired, so we may
continue to provide the very best training to the
new and seasoned mariner for years to come.”

Major Upgrades Completed in Piney Point
A steam boiler trainer The Electrical/PLC Lab

The industrial refrigeration training systemElectrician Mike Fay (left) describes aspects of the shop to SIU Asst. VP Nick Celona during a recent tour.

The Hydraulic/Pneumatic Lab with trainers

54929_SEPTEMBER_LOG_2019.indd 13 8/20/2019 6:21:40 PM



14 Seafarers LOG September 2019

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& GIFTS

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unionplus.org

Save every day with union member-only discounts
on everything from fashion and beauty to electronics and
everyday household items. And whether it’s date night or a
fun family night out, enjoy delicious, union family discounts at
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by visiting unionplus.org.

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9/19

54929_SEPTEMBER_LOG_2019.indd 14 8/20/2019 6:21:41 PM



September 2019 Seafarers LOG 15

“Total Registered” and “Total Shipped” Data is cumulative from July 16-Aug. 15. “Registered on the Beach” Data is as of Aug. 16.

Total Registered Total Shipped Registered on Beach
All Groups All Groups Trip All Groups

Port A B C A B C Reliefs A B C

Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea

Deck Department
Algonac 18 8 2 12 5 0 4 29 16 2
Anchorage 1 6 0 2 1 1 3 3 5 0
Baltimore 4 3 0 4 4 1 4 4 1 0
Fort Lauderdale 19 11 9 22 11 5 10 27 15 8
Guam 6 1 0 3 1 0 0 3 0 0
Harvey 9 5 3 13 3 1 6 14 6 4
Honolulu 13 4 0 8 6 1 4 14 6 0
Houston 55 23 6 44 23 3 26 87 25 11
Jacksonville 36 28 6 29 18 3 27 63 40 12
Jersey City 39 17 7 27 11 3 12 75 16 6
Joliet 2 1 2 2 1 1 0 3 5 1
Mobile 11 6 0 4 2 4 5 15 10 5
Norfolk 31 14 4 19 11 6 17 44 19 6
Oakland 13 3 1 8 2 1 5 26 8 8
Philadelphia 5 0 1 6 0 1 2 3 1 1
Piney Point 3 3 0 0 4 0 0 4 5 0
Puerto Rico 2 10 1 4 5 2 4 9 8 3
Tacoma 26 10 6 20 5 3 11 50 16 7
St. Louis 4 0 4 1 0 2 3 8 0 3
Wilmington 24 11 2 25 10 3 6 60 18 8
TOTALS 321 164 54 253 123 41 149 541 220 85

Engine Department
Algonac 6 2 1 4 0 2 1 7 3 1
Anchorage 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0
Baltimore 5 5 0 4 0 1 0 3 5 0
Fort Lauderdale 9 12 3 10 6 1 3 11 11 3
Guam 3 1 0 2 0 0 1 1 1 0
Harvey 7 2 1 3 1 0 1 5 5 1
Honolulu 4 1 0 4 3 0 1 9 2 0
Houston 16 10 4 15 3 3 13 26 23 7
Jacksonville 13 16 2 22 8 2 9 27 28 2
Jersey City 12 9 2 11 5 0 9 20 10 6
Joliet 4 1 1 3 0 1 0 1 1 1
Mobile 3 2 0 4 2 0 3 3 4 1
Norfolk 10 11 5 12 9 4 7 23 26 11
Oakland 9 2 2 6 4 2 6 11 6 1
Philadelphia 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 5 1 1
Piney Point 2 5 0 2 2 0 1 2 7 0
Puerto Rico 3 7 0 4 2 0 1 7 7 1
Tacoma 11 5 0 12 5 2 6 22 8 6
St. Louis 2 1 1 2 1 0 1 3 1 2
Wilmington 14 5 4 9 4 2 1 25 13 10
TOTALS 133 98 26 130 55 20 64 211 162 54

Steward Department
Algonac 3 1 0 1 1 1 1 6 2 0
Anchorage 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 0
Baltimore 2 1 1 1 1 0 1 2 1 0
Fort Lauderdale 12 5 1 10 3 0 4 17 5 2
Guam 0 3 0 0 1 0 0 1 3 0
Harvey 6 2 0 6 1 0 1 6 2 1
Honolulu 11 1 0 6 0 1 2 22 2 0
Houston 14 2 1 17 2 1 5 33 3 1
Jacksonville 21 12 3 17 10 2 10 36 16 2
Jersey City 11 9 2 6 2 2 2 16 9 3
Joliet 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 0
Mobile 1 6 1 1 4 0 4 5 3 0
Norfolk 18 7 3 17 2 4 10 25 11 2
Oakland 21 3 1 17 2 0 6 29 8 2
Philadelphia 3 0 0 4 0 0 1 3 0 0
Piney Point 2 4 0 2 6 0 6 3 2 0
Puerto Rico 1 6 1 4 4 0 2 3 6 1
Tacoma 9 5 2 8 2 1 4 19 6 2
St. Louis 1 1 1 1 0 2 1 2 1 0
Wilmington 24 12 1 16 10 1 11 32 10 2
TOTALS 160 81 18 134 53 15 71 260 92 18

Entry Department
Algonac 1 6 10 0 5 8 8 2 16 20
Anchorage 0 1 2 0 0 0 0 0 3 2
Baltimore 0 4 2 0 3 0 1 0 1 1
Fort Lauderdale 0 8 2 0 0 0 0 0 9 3
Guam 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0
Harvey 0 4 1 1 4 1 2 1 1 1
Honolulu 2 4 3 1 3 2 1 5 9 5
Houston 3 13 4 1 11 1 4 8 23 11
Jacksonville 1 26 19 1 13 10 6 3 32 84
Jersey City 4 14 6 1 11 6 3 4 21 13
Joliet 0 2 3 0 0 0 0 0 3 3
Mobile 1 0 0 0 0 1 0 1 1 0
Norfolk 0 16 25 0 11 13 5 0 29 31
Oakland 0 12 6 0 7 6 0 2 26 8
Philadelphia 0 3 1 0 1 0 0 0 2 1
Piney Point 0 1 6 0 0 4 6 0 2 3
Puerto Rico 0 2 1 0 0 0 0 1 1 1
Tacoma 4 11 5 2 8 6 2 7 19 21
St. Louis 0 1 1 0 1 0 1 0 0 1
Wilmington 1 16 8 1 11 2 0 1 36 27
TOTALS 17 145 105 8 89 60 39 35 235 236

GRAND TOTAL: 631 488 203 525 320 136 323 1,047 709 393

Piney Point...........*Tuesday: September 3, Monday: October 7
Algonac.......................................Friday: September 6, October 11
Baltimore................................Thursday: September 5, October 10
Guam...................................Thursday: September 19, October 24
Honolulu..................................Friday: September 13, October 18

Houston..................Monday: September 9,**Tuesday: October 15

Jacksonville..........................Thursday: September 5, October 10

Joliet.................................Thursday: September 12, October 17

Mobile.........................Wednesday: September 11, October 16

New Orleans........................Tuesday: September 10, October 15

Jersey City..........................Tuesday: September 3, October 8

Norfolk................................Thursday: September 5, October 10

Oakland...........................Thursday: September 12, October 17

Philadelphia........................Wednesday: September 4, October 9

Port Everglades..................Thursday: September 12, October 17

San Juan................................Thursday: September 5, October 10

St. Louis..................................Friday: September 13, October 18

Tacoma..................................Friday: September 20, October 25

Wilmington..............................Monday: September 16, October 21

*Piney Point change due to Labor Day Holiday

**Houston change due to Columbus Day Holiday
Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m

September & October 2019
Membership Meetings

As previously reported, the
SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center
for Maritime Training and Edu-
cation continues to offer Culi-
nary 2.0 classes designed to help
students boost their skills while
complying with a new rule that
takes effect next year. Complet-
ing the coursework also is in-
tended to aid individual shipping
opportunities.

Shipping Rule 5.A.(6), which
will go into effect January 1, 2020,
states, “Within each class of se-
niority in the Steward Department,
priority shall be given to those
seamen who possess an advanced
Culinary 2.0 certificate from the
Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School
of Seamanship, in the event such
program is being offered and that
the seaman is registered in Group
I, Steward Department.”

While every new member
of the steward department who
completes their apprenticeship at
the Paul Hall Center’s Lundeberg
School of Seamanship will have
successfully passed Culinary
2.0, it’s important to remem-

ber that those already sailing as
chief cooks and chief stewards
must also take the coursework in
order to exercise preference and
priority beginning next year (un-
less they have received training
after January 1, 2017 at the Piney
Point, Maryland-based campus).

For those seamen currently
employed as permanent stewards
aboard commercial vessels, they
must attend Culinary 2.0 in order
to maintain their current employ-
ment status.

For those already sailing as
chief cooks and chief stewards,
there are two new revalidation
courses that have been designed
to ensure a consistent level of culi-
nary training and efficiency: Orien-
tation/Assessment Chief Steward
2.0 and Orientation/Assessment
Chief Cook 2.0. The courses are
being offered regularly, but spaces
are limited, so members are en-
couraged to plan ahead and enroll
as soon as possible.

For more information, con-
tact your port agent and/or the
school’s admissions office.

Culinary 2.0 Available at PHC

ATTENTION SEAFARERS
Contribute To The

Seafarers Political Activities Donation

SPAD Works For You.

SPAD

Personal
Anyone who sailed with Norman R. Currie Sr. (between

1961 and 1968) is asked to contact Thomas P. Kelly at (410)
649-2049. Currie’s vessels during that time included, but were
not limited to, ones operated by Cities Service, A.H. Bull &
Co., Waterman, Alcoa, Moore-McCormack, Calmar, and U.S.
Steel, respectively.

54929_SEPTEMBER_LOG_2019_X.indd 15 8/21/2019 5:19:38 PM



16 Seafarers LOG September 2019

Michael Sacco, President
Augustin Tellez, Executive Vice President

David Heindel, Secretary-Treasurer
George Tricker, Vice President Contracts

Tom Orzechowski,
Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters
Dean Corgey, Vice President Gulf Coast

Nicholas J. Marrone, Vice President West Coast
Joseph T. Soresi, Vice President Atlantic Coast

Kate Hunt,
Vice President Government Services

HEADQUARTERS
5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746

(301) 899-0675

ALGONAC
520 St. Clair River Dr., Algonac, MI 48001

(810) 794-4988

ANCHORAGE
721 Sesame St., #1C, Anchorage, AK 99503

(907) 561-4988

BALTIMORE
2315 Essex St., Baltimore, MD 21224

(410) 327-4900

GUAM
P.O. Box 3328, Hagatna, Guam 96932
Cliffline Office Ctr. Bldg., Suite 103B

422 West O’Brien Dr., Hagatna, Guam 96910
(671) 477-1350

HONOLULU
606 Kalihi St., Honolulu, HI 96819

(808) 845-5222

HOUSTON
625 N. York St., Houston, TX 77003

(713) 659-5152

JACKSONVILLE
5100 Belfort Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32256

(904) 281-2622

JERSEY CITY
104 Broadway, Jersey City, NJ 07306

(201) 434-6000

JOLIET
10 East Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432

(815) 723-8002

MOBILE
1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605

(251) 478-0916

NEW ORLEANS
3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058

(504) 328-7545

NORFOLK
115 Third St., Norfolk, VA 23510

(757) 622-1892

OAKLAND
1121 7th St., Oakland, CA 94607

(510) 444-2360

PHILADELPHIA
2604 S. 4 St., Philadelphia, PA 19148

(215) 336-3818

PINEY POINT
P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674

(301) 994-0010

PORT EVERGLADES
1221 S. Andrews Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316

(954) 522-7984

SAN JUAN
659 Hill Side St., Summit Hills

San Juan, PR 00920
(787) 721-4033

ST. LOUIS/ALTON
4581 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, MO 63116

(314) 752-6500

TACOMA
3411 South Union Ave., Tacoma, WA 98409

(253) 272-7774

WILMINGTON
510 N. Broad Ave., Wilmington, CA 90744

(310) 549-400

Seafarers International
Union Directory Inquiring Seafarer

This month’s question was answered by Seafarers at the Houston hiring hall.

Charles Hill
Recertified Bosun

I started sailing as a youngster, about
21 years old, and I was an NMU mem-
ber. I started sailing because friends
of my parents were seamen, and they
would tell me stories about their trips.
I enjoy the camaraderie, the sea. It’s
relaxing; it’s therapy for me. I’m a sea
lover, and it has enhanced my life, made
my life better across the board. Now I’m
the one telling sea stories, to my grand-
children. Being in the union has really
helped me achieve so much in life.

Emanuel Gazzier
Recertified Bosun

I started sailing because I grew up
in a commercial shrimping family. I’ve
been on boats since I was 5 years old,
down in Mobile, Alabama. I’ve just
got so much involved in it, it’s a good
life. I appreciate everything the union
has done for us, and a special thanks to
the negotiating committees for getting
these good contracts for us.

John Gunning
Tugboat Master

Initially, I had finished my career
as a newspaper reporter, and I was
looking for a new career. As soon as I
stepped foot on a tugboat, I knew it was
where I wanted to be. I’ve kept at it be-
cause it’s such a unique job, and I still
am amazed at the size of the vessels we
move around every day. The union has
allowed me to support my family, and
I’m grateful for all the opportunities
I’ve been afforded as a part of the SIU.

John Leahey
GUDE

I started sailing as a bartender on
the Independence (American Hawaii
Cruises). I’ve kept sailing because I
like to travel, and sailing is a great way
to do that. The Philippines, Thailand,
all of southeast Asia. I’m 63 now, and
looking forward to my retirement ben-
efits that being in the union has secured
for me.

Question: Why did you start sailing and what has kept you sailing?

John Mbelwa
AB

I started sailing because I love it.
Joining the SIU allowed me to become
financially stable, and allowed me to
send my daughter to college, and I’ll be
able to send my son starting next year. I
appreciate everything the SIU has done
for me, in helping me get a good-pay-
ing job to provide for my family.

Abel Reyna
ACU

I always loved to sail, and I loved
seeing the world. I joined the union to
be able to provide for my family, while
also travelling around the world and ex-
ploring all new places. The SIU has al-
lowed me to do all of that, and I’m very
grateful for the opportunity that being
in the union has provided.

Pic From The Past

If anyone has a vintage union-related photograph he or she would like to share with other Seafarers LOG readers, please send it to the
Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Photographs will be returned, if so requested. High-resolution digital images may
be sent to webmaster@seafarers.org

SIU members currently sail aboard LNG-powered ships, and they also have a rich history of working aboard LNG carriers. One
such vessel, the LNG Gemini, is pictured during the early 1990s. The ship was built in 1978 and was one of eight such vessels
in the old ETC fleet..

54929_SEPTEMBER_LOG_2019_X.indd 16 8/21/2019 5:44:32 PM



September 2019 Seafarers LOG 17

DEEP SEA

ABDULAZIZ AHMED
Brother Abdulaziz Ahmed, 65,
signed on with the Seafarers in
1979, initially
sailing on the
Overseas Vivian.
He sailed in all
three departments
and upgraded on
multiple occa-
sions at the Piney
Point school.
Brother Ahmed
last shipped on
the Jean Anne and makes his home
in Detroit.

ANDREW ANDRINI
Brother Andrew Andrini, 68, donned

the SIU colors
in 2007 when
he sailed on the
Wilson. He was
a steward depart-
ment member and
upgraded often at
the Paul Hall Cen-
ter. Brother An-
drini’s final vessel
was the Moku

Pahu. He lives in Altoona, Iowa.

GLENN BARNES
Brother Glenn Barnes, 65, became
a member of the union in 2001. He
first shipped on the John Chapman
and worked in the engine depart-
ment. Brother Barnes upgraded on
multiple occasions at the Piney Point
school. He concluded his career on
the Texas and resides in Aliceville,
Alabama.

MARC BROMBERG
Brother Marc Bromberg, 65, joined
the SIU in 1977,
initially sailing
with Inland Tugs.
A deck depart-
ment member,
Brother Bromberg
upgraded at the
Paul Hall Center
on numerous oc-
casions. He con-
cluded his career
on the Tacoma and lives in Keyport,
Washington.

NOEL CUNANAN
Brother Noel Cunanan, 68, began
sailing with the SIU in 2000, first

sailing on the
Little Hales.
He upgraded at
the Piney Point
school in 2001
and sailed in the
steward depart-
ment. Brother
Cunanan most
recently shipped

aboard the USNS Bowditch. He
makes his home in Houston.

HENRY DANIELS
Brother Henry
Daniels, 65, em-
barked on his SIU
career in 1979
when he sailed
on the Del Sol.
He upgraded on

several occasions at the Paul Hall
Center and was a member of the
steward department. Brother Daniels
concluded his career on the Virgo
in 1994. He resides in Jacksonville,
Florida.

JIM DAWSON
Brother Jim Dawson, 65, joined the
Seafarers in 1974.
A deck depart-
ment member,
he was first em-
ployed with G&H
Towing in the
inland division.
Brother Dawson
upgraded on mul-
tiple occasions at
the Piney Point
school. He concluded his career on
the Leader and settled in Houston.

CLIFTON FAVORITE
Brother Clifton Favorite, 65, signed
on with the Seafarers in 2001, first
sailing on the Diamond State. A
deck department member, he up-
graded at the Paul Hall Center in
2001. Brother Favorite most recently
shipped on the Ocean Jazz. He is a
Houston resident.

ROLANDO GUMANAS
Brother Rolando Gumanas, 65, be-
came an SIU member in 1984 when
he shipped on the Santa Mariana.
He sailed in the engine depart-
ment and last shipped on the USNS
Capella. Brother Gumanas lives in
Mather, California.

STANLEY GURNEY
Brother Stanley Gurney, 57, joined
the union in 1979. He first sailed on
the Philadelphia. Brother Gurney
primarily sailed in the deck depart-
ment, and upgraded on multiple oc-
casions at the Paul Hall Center. He
last sailed on the Horizon Tacoma
and makes his home in Montesano,
Washington.

JAMES HEINCY
Brother James Heincy, 65, began his

career with the
union in 2001,
initially sailing
on the Bernard
F. Fisher. Ship-
ping in the deck
department, he
upgraded on nu-
merous occasions
at the Piney Point
school. Brother

Heincy’s final vessel was the Cap-
tain David Lyon. He is a resident of
Summerfield, Florida.

DANA HENRY
Brother Dana Henry, 71, donned
the SIU colors in 2003 when he
shipped on the
Beaver State. He
was a steward
department mem-
ber and upgraded
his skills at the
Paul Hall Center.
Brother Henry’s
last vessel was
the John McDon-
nell. He resides in Tonasket, Wash-
ington.

DONALD IRVINE
Brother Donald Irvine, 66, signed
on with the SIU in 1981. He first
sailed on the Independence and up-
graded often at the Paul Hall Center.
A steward department member,
Brother Irvine most recently sailed
aboard the Horizon Pacific. He lives
in the Philippines.

JAMES MANN
Brother James Mann, 65, embarked
on his career with the SIU in 1972
when he sailed
on the Platte. He
sailed in the stew-
ard department
and upgraded
at the union-
affiliated Piney
Point school on
multiple occa-
sions. Brother
Mann was last
employed by Sealand. He lives in
Vallejo, California.

NAZIRUDDIN PATANKAR
Brother Naziruddin Patankar, 65,

became a mem-
ber of the union
in 2002, initially
sailing aboard the
Franklin J. Phil-
lips. A steward
department mem-
ber, he last sailed
on the Cape Ray
in 2014. Brother
Patankar makes

his home in Jackson Heights, New
York.

ROY PAYNE
Brother Roy Payne, 72, signed on
with the union in 1990 when he
shipped on the Long Lines. A mem-
ber of the deck department, he up-
graded often at the Paul Hall Center.
Brother Payne most recently sailed
aboard the Alliance Norfolk. He
settled in Brooklyn, New York.

RAUL QUIOTO
Brother Raul Quioto, 67, began
sailing with the
SIU in 2004
when he shipped
out aboard the
Overseas New
Orleans. He
sailed in both the
deck and engine
departments and
concluded his ca-
reer on the Over-
seas Tampa. Brother Quioto resides
in Katy, Texas.

ADRIAN REED
Brother Adrian Reed, 65 joined
the Seafarers in 2001 during the
NMU/SIU merger. He first sailed
on the Liberator and was a steward
department member. Brother Reed
concluded his career on the Energy
Enterprise. He resides in Rockport,
Maine.

FRANK REVETTE
Brother Frank Revette, 66, signed
on with the SIU in 1978, initially
sailing on the Overseas Vivian. He
worked in the deck department and
upgraded at the Piney Point school

on numerous oc-
casions. Brother
Revette most
recently sailed
aboard the Delta
Mariner. He
resides in Hon-
oraville, Alabama.

ALI SHAIBI
Brother Ali Shaibi, 65, donned the SIU
colors in 1978 when he sailed on the
TransColorado.
A member of the
deck department,
he upgraded at the
Piney Point school
in 1981. Brother
Shaibi concluded
his career on the
Philadelphia in
1996. He makes
his home in
Brooklyn, New York.

ROBERT TORGERSEN
Brother Robert Torgersen, 65, signed
on with the Seafarers in 1974,
initially sailing on the Bradford Is-

land. A member
of the engine
department, he
upgraded on nu-
merous occasions
at the Paul Hall
Center. Brother
Torgersen last
worked for the
union in Eliza-

beth, New Jersey. He lives in Atlan-
tic Highlands, New Jersey.

KENNETH WELLS
Brother Kenneth Wells, 57, became
a member of the union in 1991 when
he shipped on the
Eugene Obregon.
He primarily
sailed in the en-
gine department
and upgraded on
multiple occasions
at the Piney Point
school. Brother
Wells most re-
cently sailed on
the American Liberty. He resides in
Jacksonville, North Carolina.

GREAT LAKES

LEE MACARTHUR
Brother Lee
MacArthur, 65,
joined the union
in 1974. He first
sailed on the JB
Ford and primar-
ily worked in the
engine depart-
ment. Brother
MacArthur’s last

vessel was the JAW Iglehart. He
lives in Alpena, Michigan.

INLAND

ALBERT BODDEN
Brother Albert
Bodden, 62,
signed on with
the union in 1998.
A deck depart-
ment member,
his first vessel
was the Wilson.
Brother Bodden

upgraded on numerous occasions at
the Paul Hall Center. He was most
recently employed by Penn Mari-
time and lives in West Palm Beach,
Florida.

DAVID FERACE
Brother David Ferace, 66, began

sailing with the
SIU in 2011 when
he shipped with
Harley Marine
New York. He
was a member of
the deck depart-
ment and contin-
ued to work for
the same company
for the duration of

his career. He calls Waterford, Con-
necticut, home.

KERRY O’CALLAGHAN
Brother Kerry O’Callaghan, 55, be-
came a member of
the union in 1990,
when he sailed on
the AMSEA ves-
sel Lake. He up-
graded at the Paul
Hall Center in
2008 and shipped
in the deck de-
partment. Brother
O’Callaghan
was most recently employed with
Crowley and settled in Norwood,
Pennsylvania.

ROBERT STEINMANN
Brother Robert Steinmann, 64,

donned the SIU
colors in 1975,
initially sailing
with G&H Tow-
ing. He sailed in
the deck depart-
ment and was
last employed by
Moran Towing
of Texas. Brother
Steinmann re-

sides in Las Cruces, New Mexico.

DAVID SUMNER
Brother David Sumner, 62, donned
the SIU colors
in 1982 when
he sailed on the
Santa Elena. He
primarily sailed
in the deck de-
partment and
upgraded on mul-
tiple occasions at
the Piney Point
school. Brother
Sumner most recently worked for
OSG Ship Management and resides
in Lutz, Florida.

Each month, the Seafarers LOG pays tribute to the SIU members who have devoted
their working lives to sailing aboard U.S.-flag vessels on the deep seas, inland water-
ways or Great Lakes. Listed below are brief biographical sketches of those members
who recently retired from the union. The brothers and sisters of the SIU thank those
members for a job well done and wish them happiness and good health in the days
ahead.

Welcome Ashore

54929_SEPTEMBER_LOG_2019_X.indd 17 8/21/2019 5:19:41 PM



18 Seafarers LOG September 2019

Final
Departures

DEEP SEA

HENRY BOON
Brother Henry Boon, 92, died
February 24. He joined the SIU
in 1979, sailing first on the Pres-
ident Truman. A steward depart-
ment member, Brother Boon last
sailed aboard the President Tyler
in 1992. He lived in Oakland,
California.

JOSE FELICIANO
Pensioner Jose Feliciano, 72,
passed away July 23. He became
an SIU member
in 1987 when
he sailed aboard
the USNS Hess.
A deck depart-
ment member,
Brother Feliciano
last sailed on the
Maersk Arkan-
sas. He went on pension in 2012
and lived in Penuelas, Puerto
Rico.

EARL GRAY
Pensioner Earl Gray, 87, died
July 13. He joined the union

in 1971 and
first sailed on
the Columbia.
Brother Gray was
a steward depart-
ment member
and last sailed
aboard the Hori-
zon Challenger.

He became a pensioner in 1998
and was a resident of Gretna,
Louisiana.

JUAN GUARIS
Pensioner Juan Guaris, 78,
passed away July 2. He em-
barked on his SIU career in
1967, initially sailing on the
Chatham. Brother Guaris pri-
marily sailed in the engine de-
partment, most recently aboard
the Consumer. He became a
pensioner in 1997 and settled in
Carolina, Puerto Rico.

JOHNNY HAMMOCK
Pensioner Johnny Hammock, 64,
died July 13. Signing on with
the Seafarers in 1973, he first
shipped on the Van Horizon.
Brother Hammock was a mem-
ber of the deck department and
last sailed aboard the John Page.
He retired in 2010 and called
Cantonment, Florida, home.

PATRICIA JOHANSEN
Pensioner Patricia Johansen,
69, passed away
August 4. She
joined the union
in 1998, initially
sailing aboard the
USNS Invincible.
Sister Johansen
worked in both

the deck and steward depart-
ments. She last sailed on the
Cape Orlando and retired in
2015. Sister Johansen lived in
Belfair, Washington.

SANFORD KLAVANO
Pensioner Sanford Klavano, 74,
died July 20. He started sailing
with the SIU
in 1969 when
he shipped on
the Columbia
Beaver. A deck
department
member, Brother
Klavano last
sailed aboard the
William Baugh. He went on pen-
sion in 2008 and lived in East
Wenatchee, Washington.

GUY POLLARD LOWSLEY
Pensioner Guy Pollard Lowsley,
82, passed away June 25. He

donned the SIU
colors in 1967
when he sailed
on the Santa
Maria. Brother
Pollard Lowsley
shipped in the en-
gine department.
He last sailed on

the Explorer before becoming a
pensioner in 1998. Brother Pol-
lard Lowsley was a resident of
San Francisco.

CRAIG LUNDBERG
Brother Craig Lundberg, 59,
died June 26. He signed on
with the union in 2001, during
the NMU/SIU merger. Brother
Lundberg was a member of the
steward department. His first
SIU vessel was the Overseas
New York; his last, the American
Freedom. He made his home in
San Diego.

NEIL NAPOLITANO
Pensioner Neil Napolitano,
88, passed away May 27. He
joined the SIU
in 1979, initially
sailing aboard
the Boston.
Brother Napoli-
tano shipped in
the deck depart-
ment and last
sailed on the
Consumer in 1994. He started
collecting his pension in 1996
and resided in Forksville,
Pennsylvania.

GREGORIO ORTIZ
Pensioner Gregorio Ortiz, 72,
died July 15. Born in San Juan,
Puerto Rico, he began his SIU
career in 1967. Brother Ortiz
first sailed on the Trans Hudson
and was a member of the deck
department. He last shipped on
the USNS Dahl before going

on pension 2010. Brother Ortiz
lived in Turlock, California.

ENDEL PAPPEL
Pensioner Endel Pappel, 93,
passed away June
11. He became
an SIU member
in 1985 when
he worked for
Waterman Steam-
ship. Brother
Pappel shipped in
the deck depart-
ment and last shipped on the
Bayamon. He retired in 1985 and
resided in Baltimore.

MICHAEL PITERIS
Pensioner Michael Piteris, 97,

died May 25. He
joined the SIU
in 1967 when he
shipped on the
Northern Lights.
Brother Piteris
was an engine
department mem-

ber and sailed last on the Robert
E. Lee. He retired in 1986 and
made his home in Greece.

EDWARD SMIGIELSKI
Brother Edward Smigielski,
47, passed away July 21. He
was born in Pennsylvania and
joined the SIU in 2012. Brother
Smigielski’s first vessel was the
Resolve. The steward department
member most recently shipped
on the Maersk Ohio. He called
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina,
home.

FRANCIS TOTH
Brother Francis Toth, 62, died
June 10. Born in Pennsylva-
nia, he started his career with
the Seafarers in 1978. Brother
Toth first sailed on the Mount
Explorer and shipped in the
steward department. He most re-
cently worked on the Evergreen
State and made his home in Hol-
lywood, Maryland.

INLAND

MICHAEL HUFANA
Brother Michael Hufana, 63,
passed away April 19. He be-
came a member of the SIU in
2007 when he worked for OSG
Ship Management. A deck
department member, Brother
Hufana remained with the same
company for the duration of his
career. He lived in Town Bank,
New Jersey.

CLIFFORD JAMES
Pensioner Clifford James, 65,
died July 14. He embarked on
his SIU career in 1973, work-
ing for Dravo Basic Materials.
Brother James was a deck de-
partment member and continued
to ship with the same company
for his entire career, which
ended in 1992. He called Jack-
son, Alabama, home.

JEREMIAH NICASTRO
Pensioner Jeremiah Nicastro, 91,
passed away July 11. He signed

on with the Seafarers in 1970,
initially sailing with Michigan
Tankers. A deck department
member, Brother Nicastro last
sailed with Boat St Mary’s Inc.
He resided in Gloucester, Mas-
sachusetts, his birthplace.

NMU

FRANK BENNETT
Pensioner Frank Bennett, 92,
died July 15. He joined the
union during the 2001 SIU/
NMU merger; his first SIU ves-
sel was the St. Louis Express.
Brother Bennett was a member
of the deck department and
concluded his career aboard the
Cape Victory. He resided in Port
Arthur, Texas.

In addition to the foregoing individ-
uals, the following union members
have also passed away. Insufficient
information was available to de-
velop summaries of their respective
careers.

NAME AGE DOD

Arroyo, Jose 94 07/17/2019
Bollard, Joseph 96 06/13/2019
Caballer, Carmen 93 06/28/2019
Dodd, Thomas 90 07/13/2019
Duarte, John 82 07/31/2019
Green, Albert 94 07/22/2019
Iguina, Francisco 96 07/19/2019
McAllister, Andrew 92 08/04/2019
Rosario, Felix 94 08/10/2019
Sanchez, Emilio 89 06/22/2019
Thompson, Georgie 91 07/04/2019
Vieira, Joseph 94 06/27/2019

SIU CIVMARS Support Our Troops

The USNS Richard E. Byrd (right), crewed by members of the SIU Government Services Division,
prepares for a replenishment-at-sea operation with the U.S. Navy’s forward-deployed aircraft carrier
USS Ronald Reagan. Photo was taken Aug. 14 in the Philippine Sea. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass
Communication Specialist 2nd Class Tyra M. Campbell)

54929_SEPTEMBER_LOG_2019_X.indd 18 8/21/2019 5:44:33 PM



September 2019 Seafarers LOG 19

FINANCIAL REPORTS. The Constitu-
tion of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and In-
land Waters District makes specific provision
for safeguarding the membership’s money
and union finances. The constitution requires
a detailed audit by certified public accoun-
tants every year, which is to be submitted to
the membership by the secretary-treasurer.
A yearly finance committee of rank-and-file
members, elected by the membership, each
year examines the finances of the union and
reports fully their findings and recommenda-
tions. 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 Dis-
trict are administered in accordance with the
provisions of various trust fund agreements.
All these agreements specify that the trustees
in charge of these funds shall equally consist
of union and management representatives and
their alternates. All expenditures and disburse-
ments of trust funds are made only upon ap-
proval by a majority of the trustees. All trust
fund financial records are available at the
headquarters of the various trust funds.

SHIPPING RIGHTS. A member’s ship-
ping rights and seniority are protected exclu-
sively by contracts between the union and
the employers. Members should get to know
their shipping rights. Copies of these contracts
are posted and available in all union halls. If
members believe there have been violations of
their shipping or seniority rights as contained
in the contracts between the union and the em-
ployers, they should notify the Seafarers Ap-
peals Board by certified mail, return receipt

requested. The proper address for this is:

Augustin Tellez, Chairman
Seafarers Appeals Board

5201 Auth Way
Camp Springs, MD 20746

Full copies of contracts as referred to are
available to members at all times, either by
writing directly to the union or to the Seafar-
ers Appeals Board.

CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU contracts
are available in all SIU halls. These contracts
specify the wages and conditions under which
an SIU member works and lives aboard a ship
or boat. Members should know their contract
rights, as well as their obligations, such as fil-
ing for overtime (OT) on the proper sheets and
in the proper manner. If, at any time, a member
believes that an SIU patrolman or other union
official fails to protect their contractual rights
properly, he or she should contact the nearest
SIU port agent.

EDITORIAL POLICY — THE SEA-
FARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG tradition-
ally has refrained from publishing any article
serving the political purposes of any individual
in the union, officer or member. It also has re-
frained from publishing articles deemed harm-
ful to the union or its collective membership.
This established policy has been reaffirmed
by membership action at the September 1960
meetings in all constitutional ports. The respon-
sibility for Sea farers LOG policy is vested in an
editorial board which consists of the executive
board of the union. The executive board may
delegate, from among its ranks, one individual
to carry out this responsibility.

PAYMENT OF MONIES. No monies are
to be paid to anyone in any official capacity in
the SIU unless an official union receipt is given
for same. Under no circumstances should any
member pay any money for any reason unless
he is given such receipt. In the event anyone
attempts to require any such payment be made
without supplying a receipt, or if a member is
required to make a payment and is given an
official receipt, but feels that he or she should
not have been required to make such payment,
this should immediately be reported to union
headquarters.

CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS AND OB-
LIGATIONS. Copies of the SIU Constitution
are available in all union halls. All members
should obtain copies of this constitution so
as to familiarize themselves with its contents.
Any time a member feels any other member or
officer is attempting to deprive him or her of
any constitutional right or obligation by any
methods, such as dealing with charges, trials,
etc., as well as all other details, the member
so affected should immediately notify head-
quarters.

EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guar-
anteed equal rights in employment and as
members of the SIU. These rights are clearly
set forth in the SIU Constitution and in the con-
tracts which the union has negotiated with the
employers. Conse quently, no member may be
discriminated against because of race, creed,
color, sex, national or geographic origin.

If any member feels that he or she is denied
the equal rights to which he or she is entitled,
the member should notify union headquarters.

SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY

DONATION (SPAD). SPAD is a separate
segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to fur-
ther its objects and purposes including, but
not limited to, furthering the political, social
and economic interests of maritime workers,
the preservation and furthering of the Ameri-
can merchant marine with improved employ-
ment opportunities for seamen and boatmen
and the advancement of trade union concepts.
In connection with such objects, SPAD sup-
ports and contributes to political candidates
for elective office. All contributions are vol-
untary. No contribution may be solicited or
received because of force, job discrimination,
financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct,
or as a condition of membership in the union
or of employment. If a contribution is made
by reason of the above improper conduct, the
member should notify the Seafarers Interna-
tional Union or SPAD by certified mail within
30 days of the contribution for investigation
and appropriate action and refund, if involun-
tary. A member should support SPAD to pro-
tect and further his or her economic, political
and social interests, and American trade union
concepts.

NOTIFYING THE UNION — If at any
time a member feels that any of the above
rights have been violated, or that he or she has
been denied the constitutional right of access
to union records or information, the member
should immediately notify SIU President Mi-
chael Sacco at headquarters by certified mail,
return receipt requested. The address is:

Michael Sacco, President
Seafarers International Union

5201 Auth Way
Camp Springs, MD 20746.

Know Your Rights

Digest of Shipboard
Union Meetings

PATRIOT (TOTE), April 14 –
Chairman Yamira Colon, Sec-
retary Matthew Carroll, Deck
Delegate Kevin Moore, Engine
Delegate Thomas Leroy, Steward
Delegate Velicia Williams. Parts
needed in order to repair work
clothes dryer. Members to use
drying room for work clothes in
the meantime. Secretary discussed
policies aboard ship. All unli-
censed members are considered
“all-purpose crew.” Secretary
noted drug and alcohol policy. OSs
to be notified of duties on watch
and on deck. Steward department
was thanked for providing great
meals. Crew was thanked for
keeping the house clean. OS Jewel
Lamb was praised for taking
important steps to maintain ship-
board safety. Next Port: Constanta,
Romania.

HORIZON KODIAK (Mat-
son), April 21 – Chairman Gary
Walker, Secretary Antoinette
Amato, Educational Director
Kevin McCagh, Deck Delegate
Mott Arnold, Engine Delegate
Jeffrey Murray, Steward Del-
egate Patrick Durnin. Chairman
reminded members to keep dues
current and encouraged them to
contribute to SPAD. Educational
director encouraged crew to up-
grade at the Piney Point school.
He suggested registering for the
Culinary 2.0 to remain competi-
tive with other members in 2020.
No beefs or disputed OT reported.
Members requested a new paid
holiday in the next Standard
Freight Ship Agreement. The
new holiday requested would be
designated as Maritime Day and
would not come at the expense
of an existing paid holiday. Crew
thanked steward department for a

job well done. Deck department
was thanked for their commitment
to SAHFOS plankton collection,
which contributes to the ship’s
fund. Crew discussed situation
with standby reliefs and Tacoma
hall, including standby wages.
Members asked that headquarters
provide wage incentives and also
negotiate an increase with the
Matson shore gang. Next Port: Ta-
coma, Washington.

OREGON (Crowley), April 27 –
Chairman Charles Hill, Secretary
Tina Knox, Educational Director
Frank Harris, Deck Delegate
Saleh Almatari, Engine Delegate
Waverly Moore. SIU Assistant
Vice President Kris Hopkins came
aboard ship and discussed transi-
tion to SIU, shipping rules and
contracts. Chairman welcomed
new members to the union and
advised them to keep documents
current. He encouraged crew to
contact headquarters for more
information. Educational director
recommended members upgrade
at the Paul Hall Center. No beefs
or disputed OT reported. Good
food on ship.

HOUSTON (USS Transport),
May 5 – Chairman Reny Arzu ,
Secretary Fausto Aranda, Educa-
tional Director Jorge Lawrence,
Engine Delegate Charlie Wescott.
Chairman went over new ship pro-
cedures and encouraged members
to work together. Secretary gave
thanks to the SIU. Crew thanked
bosun for doing a good job and the
deck department for clean house-
keeping. No beefs or disputed
OT reported. Members expressed
appreciation for new chairs and
sofa covers. Crew requested 40-
inch TV. Steward department was

thanked for good food. Chair-
man advised members to read the
Know Your Rights section in the
LOG.

USNS WILLIAM R. BUTTON
(Crowley), May 10 – Chairman
Gregory Jackson, Secretary
Edwin Bonefont, Educational Di-
rector Braden Horne, Deck Del-
egate Abdoulla Alssoudi, Engine
Delegate Deralle Watson. Crew
washing machine installed. Chair-
man went over beneficiary infor-
mation and reminded members
to check and update documents.
Secretary discussed differences
between the medical plan levels.
Educational director reiterated im-
portance of upgrading at the Paul
Hall Center. No beefs or disputed
OT reported. Crew requested
change to vacation accrual policy.
Members are unable to commu-
nicate with family without email
access. Crew would like to have
movies on ship. Members plan on
having an anchor pool to put more
money into ship’s fund.

HOUSTON (USS Transport),
May 19 – Chairman Reny Arzu,
Secretary Fausto Aranda, Educa-
tional Director Jorge Lawrence,
Engine Delegate Charlie Wescott.
Chairman put together new chairs
for the mess hall and lunch room.
He addressed questions regarding
travel pay. Crew commended for
keeping vessel clean. No beefs or
disputed OT reported. Chairman
encouraged crew to read LOG.
Members discussed complaints
about Anderson Kelly clinics
and asked the SIU to discontinue
sending seamen there. Members
requested new TVs as well as re-
cliners for each room. Crew gave
thanks to the steward department

for good food. Members expressed
appreciation for bosun’s help with
the steward department.

PATRIOT (TOTE), May 21
– Chairman Yamira Colon,
Secretary Mathew Carroll,
Deck Delegate Kevin Moore,
Engine Delegate Thomas Leroy,
Steward Delegate Velicia Wil-
liams. Crew went over old busi-
ness. Clothes dryer still in need
of repair. Educational director
advised members to check their
documents for expiration dates.
Beef reported from deck delegate.
Crew requests ability to pay
union dues through online portal.
Members asked for clarification
of penalty pay for engine depart-
ment. Crew thanked steward de-
partment for good meals and for
keeping house and decks clean.
Next port: Baltimore.

MARJORIE C (Pasha), May
25 – Chairman Daniel Daven-
port, Secretary Jatniel Aguilera
Santiago, Educational Director
Michael Papaioannou, Deck
Delegate Billy Cooley, Engine
Delegate Oscar Cesena, Steward
Delegate Reno Duque. Members
addressed ideas for ship fund
spending. Chairman thanked
crew for working hard and
working safely. He commended
Chief Steward Aguilera and
Chief Cook Duque for working
together and creating excellent
menus. Secretary gave thanks to
crew for cleaning up after night
lunches. Educational director
advised members to check the
Seafarers LOG or SIU webstie
for upgrading courses offered at
the Piney Point school. No beefs
or disputed OT reported. Steward
delegate reminded crew to leave

clean rooms when signing off
ship. Members would like to see
room inspections prior to signoff.
Crew requested new mattresses
for staterooms and would like to
keep weekly slop chest on board.

INDEPENDENCE (Eco-Tankers
Crew Management), May 25
– Chairman Dave Coleman,
Secretary Arlene Thomas, Edu-
cational Director Jeremy Jen-
drusiak, Deck Delegate Albert
Washington, Engine Delegate
Terren Fields, Steward Delegate
Antonio Holmes. Crew received
memory foam mattress toppers
as requested. Payoff scheduled at
Port of Houston. Chairman rec-
ommended taking USCG physi-
cal simultaneously with regular
physicals in order to keep ahead
of expiration dates. Educational
director encouraged crew to up-
grade as often as possible. No
beefs or disputed OT reported.
Steward department was thanked
for a job well done and entire crew
was praised for working together
safely. Next port: Houston.

OVERSEAS KEY WEST (OSG),
May 30 – Chairman Wayne Ri-
card, Secretary Breon Lucas, Ed-
ucational Director Michael Blue.
Crew went over old business,
including requests for reimburse-
ment for work shoes. Chairman
thanked members for working
safely in the shipyard. Educational
director reminded members to
upgrade. No beefs or disputed OT
reported. Crew requested extended
vacation time and changes in pen-
sion plan benefits. Special thanks
given to steward department mem-
bers Lucas, Dustin Laney and
Hyeyoung Forrer for their excel-
lent work.

The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as pos-
sible. On occasion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted.

Ships’ minutes first are reviewed by the union’s contract department. Those issues requir-
ing attention or resolution are addressed by the union upon receipt of the ships’ minutes. The
minutes are then forwarded to the Seafarers LOG for publication.

54929_SEPTEMBER_LOG_2019.indd 19 8/20/2019 6:21:45 PM



20 Seafarers LOG September 2019

Paul Hall Center Upgrading Course Information
The following is a schedule of courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime

Training and Education in Piney Point, Maryland, for the next several months. All
programs are geared toward improving the job skills of Seafarers and promoting
the American maritime industry.

Seafarers who have any questions regarding the upgrading courses offered at
the Paul Hall Center may call the admissions office at (301) 994-0010.

Title of Start Date of
Course Date Completion

Deck Department Upgrading Courses

Able Seafarer Deck October 12 November 8

AB to Mate Modules Modules must be taken in order. Those who
are not in the mates program cannot apply
for these courses. Contact the Admissions
Office for further details.

ARPA September 28 October 4

Crane Familiarization October 5 October 11

ECDIS September 21 September 27
November 16 November 22


Lifeboat September 21 October 4
October 19 November 1
November 16 November 29
December 14 December 27

Radar Observer September 14 September 27

Radar Renewal (one day) Contact the PHC Admissions Office

RFPNW September 14 October 11
November 9 December 6

100 Ton Master October 19 November 8

Engine Department Upgrading Courses

BAPO September 14 October 11
November 9 December 6

FOWT October 12 November 8

Junior Engineer September 28 November 22

Machinist October 19 November 8

Marine Electrician October 12 November 15

Pumpman November 9 November 15

Welding September 14 October 4
October 19 November 8

Title of Start Date of
Course Date Completion

Steward Department Courses

Advanced Galley Operations September 21 October 18

Certified Chief Cook Modules run every other week. The next
class will start September 16.

Chief Steward October 19 December 6

Galley Operations September 14 October 11
November 9 December 6

Orientation/Assessment Chief Cook 2.0 September 14 September 20
September 28 October 4
October 19 October 25
November 2 November 8
December 7 December 13

Orientation/Assessment Chief Steward 2.0 September 21 September 27
October 5 October 11
October 26 November 1
November 16 November 22
November 30 June 6


Safety Upgrading Courses

Basic Training/Basic FF September 21 September 27
October 19 October 25
November 2 November 8
November 16 November 22
December 7 December 13

Basic Training Revalidation September 13 September 13
October 18 October 18
October 25 October 25
November 15 November 15
December 6 December 6

Basic Training/Adv. FF Revalidation September 14 September 20

Combined Basic/Advanced Firefighting September 21 September 27

Government Vessels September 28 October 4
October 12 October 18
October 26 November 1
November 16 November 22
December 7 December 13
December 14 December 20

Medical Care Provider September 28 October 4

Tank Ship Familiarization - DL September 21 September 27

Tank Ship Familiarization - LG September 14 September 20
November 9 November 15
December 7 December 13

UPGRADING APPLICATION

Name ________________________________________________________________________
Address ______________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
Telephone (Home)_________________________ (Cell)_________________________
Date of Birth __________________________________________________________________
Deep Sea Member o Lakes Member o Inland Waters Member o

If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed.

Social Security #_______________________ Book # _________________________________
Seniority_____________________________ Department_____________________________
Home Port____________________________________________________________________
E-mail_______________________________________________________________________
Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held_____________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
Are you a graduate of the SHLSS/PHC trainee program? o Yes o No
If yes, class # and dates attended __________________________________________________
Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? oYes o No
_____________________________________________________________________________

With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty-five
(125) days seatime for the previous year, MMC, TWIC, front page of your book including your
department and seniority and qualifying sea time for the course if it is Coast Guard tested.
Must have a valid SHBP clinic through course date.
I authorize the Paul Hall Center to release any of the information contained in this applica-
tion, or any of the supporting documentation that I have or will submit with this application
to related organizations, for the purpose of better servicing my needs and helping me to apply
for any benefits which might become due to me.

COURSE START DATE OF
DATE COMPLETION
____________________________ _______________ ________________________
____________________________ _______________ ________________________

____________________________ _______________ ________________________

____________________________ _______________ ________________________

____________________________ _______________ ________________________

____________________________ _______________ ________________________

LAST VESSEL: ___________________________________ Rating: ____________________

Date On: _______________________________ Date Off:____________________________

SIGNATURE ____________________________________ DATE______________________

NOTE: Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only if
you present original receipts and successfully complete the course. If you have any
questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. Not all classes are
reimbursable. Return completed application to: Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training
and Education Admissions Office, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674-0075; or fax
to (301) 994-2189.

The Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime
Training and Education is a private, non-profit, equal opportunity institution and admits stu-
dents, who are otherwise qualified, or any race, nationality or sex. The school complies with
applicable laws with regard to admission, access or treatment of students in its programs or
activities. 9/19

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September 2019 Seafarers LOG 21

Paul Hall Center Classes

Students who have registered for
classes at the Paul Hall Center for
Maritime Training and Education,
but later discover - for whatever rea-
son - that they can’t attend, should
inform the admissions department
immediately so arrangements can
be made to have other students take
their places.

Important
Notice

To All Students

Marine Electrician – Graduated March 8 (above, in alphabetical order): Edgar Dequito Dionio, Jesus
Manuel Martinez Ortiz, Melody Mitchell, Cesar Arnaldo Rivera-Polanco, Marvin Sacaza and Sutthipong
Ticer. William Dodd, their instructor, is at the far left.

BAPO (Upgraders) – Graduated April 26 (above, from left): Andrew
Blacker, Donte Sawyer and Torina Brooks.

Marine Refrigeration – Graduated April 19
(photo at left, in alphabetical order): Rudy
Cesar, Edgar Dequito Dionio, Jesus Man-
uel Martinez Ortiz, Melody Mitchell, Lamar
Pinckney, Cesar Arnaldo Rivera-Polanco,
Marvin Sacaza and Sutthipong Ticer. Class
instructor William Dodd is at the far right.

BAPO (Phase III) – Graduated April 26 (above, in alphabetical order): Reny Arzu, Michael David Cruz Cor-
dova, Carlos Marcos Gutierrez, Deandre Henry, Roman Hutson, Julian Jordan, Jack Lanier, Zion Lyons, Billy
Sawyer III, Nicholas Sweeney, Justin Turner and Daniel Villarruel. Upon the completion of their training, each
plans to work in the engine departments of union-contracted vessels.

RFPNW (Phase III) – Graduated April 26 (above, in alphabetical
order): Robert Coleman III, Norman Comeaux Jr., Jovanni Capistrano
Garcenila, Nicholas Holt, Anthonie Nichols and Mervin Zamora. Each
plans to work in the deck departments of SIU-contracted vessels upon
the completion of their training.

Apprentice Water Survival Class #850 –
Graduated May 17 (photo at right, in alphabeti-
cal order): Diquan Adamson, Quinson Blueford
Jr., Kaleb Bogan, Zaid Cooper, D’Angelo Dick-
son, Nicholas Kai Fortunato, Solomon Fos-
ter Jr., Allen Gilmore, Jemell Jones, Zeke
Pasquarelli, Jahmiah Peets, Yohanes Pribadi,
Marcell Santos-Pascual, Jonathan Silva and
Kenneth Smith Jr.

April 2019 Seafarers LOG 27

Paul Hall Center Classes
SUA (Galley Operations) – Grad-
uated October 5 (photo at left, in
alphabetical order): Alexandra Er-
ickson, Paisami Gay, Daniel How-
ard, Lamarai Jones, Shadonna
Jones, EsStonia Moore, Eugenia
Porter, Noah Susumu Santiago-
Stephens, Lareesa Warren, Jessica
Williams, Kendra Williams and Jarid
Wilson.

SUA (Galley Opera-
tions) – Graduated No-
vember 2 (photo at right,
in alphabetical order):
Reginald Howard, Billie
Mahealani Kawelo, Alize
Lassiter, Christian Louis,
Gerardo Kaindoy Melano,
Wilfredo Ramos Silva,
James Scott, Tahn Stuart,
Nicholas Tacy, Jalisa Wil-
liams and Derek Wilson.

Chief Steward 2.0 – Graduated October 19 (above, in alphabetical order): Tommy Bel-
vin, Karl Meyer, Mark Salvador Scardino and Velicia Williams.

Galley Operations – Graduated October 5 (above, from left): Stevon Taylor, Porcia John-
son and Tuliga Fuega.

Chief Steward – Graduated November 9: (above, from left), Merly Ford,
real Coronel and Delia Miral Peters.

Certified Chief Cook (Module 3) – Graduated November 30 (above, from left): John Billington, Alvinmar
Iremedio Aldana, Dindo Prellagera Reforsado and Norma Painitan Baucan.

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April 2019 Seafarers LOG 27

Paul Hall Center Classes
SUA (Galley Operations) – Grad-
uated October 5 (photo at left, in
alphabetical order): Alexandra Er-
ickson, Paisami Gay, Daniel How-
ard, Lamarai Jones, Shadonna
Jones, EsStonia Moore, Eugenia
Porter, Noah Susumu Santiago-
Stephens, Lareesa Warren, Jessica
Williams, Kendra Williams and Jarid
Wilson.

SUA (Galley Opera-
tions) – Graduated No-
vember 2 (photo at right,
in alphabetical order):
Reginald Howard, Billie
Mahealani Kawelo, Alize
Lassiter, Christian Louis,
Gerardo Kaindoy Melano,
Wilfredo Ramos Silva,
James Scott, Tahn Stuart,
Nicholas Tacy, Jalisa Wil-
liams and Derek Wilson.

Chief Steward 2.0 – Graduated October 19 (above, in alphabetical order): Tommy Bel-
vin, Karl Meyer, Mark Salvador Scardino and Velicia Williams.

Galley Operations – Graduated October 5 (above, from left): Stevon Taylor, Porcia John-
son and Tuliga Fuega.

Chief Steward – Graduated November 9: (above, from left), Merly Ford,
real Coronel and Delia Miral Peters.

Certified Chief Cook (Module 3) – Graduated November 30 (above, from left): John Billington, Alvinmar
Iremedio Aldana, Dindo Prellagera Reforsado and Norma Painitan Baucan.

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April 2019 Seafarers LOG 27

Paul Hall Center Classes
SUA (Galley Operations) – Grad-
uated October 5 (photo at left, in
alphabetical order): Alexandra Er-
ickson, Paisami Gay, Daniel How-
ard, Lamarai Jones, Shadonna
Jones, EsStonia Moore, Eugenia
Porter, Noah Susumu Santiago-
Stephens, Lareesa Warren, Jessica
Williams, Kendra Williams and Jarid
Wilson.

SUA (Galley Opera-
tions) – Graduated No-
vember 2 (photo at right,
in alphabetical order):
Reginald Howard, Billie
Mahealani Kawelo, Alize
Lassiter, Christian Louis,
Gerardo Kaindoy Melano,
Wilfredo Ramos Silva,
James Scott, Tahn Stuart,
Nicholas Tacy, Jalisa Wil-
liams and Derek Wilson.

Chief Steward 2.0 – Graduated October 19 (above, in alphabetical order): Tommy Bel-
vin, Karl Meyer, Mark Salvador Scardino and Velicia Williams.

Galley Operations – Graduated October 5 (above, from left): Stevon Taylor, Porcia John-
son and Tuliga Fuega.

Chief Steward – Graduated November 9: (above, from left), Merly Ford,
real Coronel and Delia Miral Peters.

Certified Chief Cook (Module 3) – Graduated November 30 (above, from left): John Billington, Alvinmar
Iremedio Aldana, Dindo Prellagera Reforsado and Norma Painitan Baucan.

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22 Seafarers LOG September 2019

Paul Hall Center Classes

Basic Training (Basic Firefighting) – Graduated
April 19 (above, in alphabetical order): Mohaned
Kaid Algalham, Joso Buterin and Joshus Kraynak.
(Note: Not all are pictured.)

Combined Basic & Advanced Firefighting – Graduated April 19 (above, in alphabetical order): Yahya Abdulaziz Ahmed, Hu-
sein Mohsin Alrayyashi, William Born, Evan Bradley, Corey Covington, Charles Drumm, Michael Iverson, Benny Antonio Orosco
and Glenn Snow. Their instructor, Mike Roberts, is at the far left.

Government Vessels – Graduated April 12 (above, in alphabetical order): Valerie Bowman, Ernest Boyd, Ferdinand Malicay Cabanlit, Van Dixon, Leopoldo Estrada Martinez, Ryan
Marquez Gallano, James Gerry, Mohammed Alam Gir, John Hays, Hussein Kareem Howe, Cecil Husted, Ruby Jones, Joshua Kraynak, John Lewis, Radu Viorel Marinescu, Melaethon
Deshenda Silas, Shayla Stafford, Arkala Williams and Kipp Worthy. Keith Adamson, their instructor, is at the far left. (Note: Not all are pictured.)

Junior Engineer (Basic Electricity) – Graduated March 8 (above, in alphabetical
order): Patrick Dean, Vincent Freeman, Deondre Gardner, Arvin Tarroza Heras and
Yves Mbuiti Nsaumi. Instructor Christopher Morgan is at the far right.

UA to Able Seaman – Graduated March 29 (above, in alphabetical order): Erik Andersen, Bran-
don Caruthers, Da’vonte Junies and Lucas Vasiliades.

MSC Supply Configura-
tion Management – Gradu-
ated March 22 (right, in
alphabetical order): Jason
Bentz, Carlos Enrique Gib-
bons, Stephanie Granger,
Enchantress Charmaine
Johnson, Paul Klear, De-
markus Antoine McNabb,
Robert Resurreccion, Doug-
las Vaughn and Beverly Wil-
liams. Matthew Rogers, their
instructor, is at the far right.

April 2019 Seafarers LOG 27

Paul Hall Center Classes
SUA (Galley Operations) – Grad-
uated October 5 (photo at left, in
alphabetical order): Alexandra Er-
ickson, Paisami Gay, Daniel How-
ard, Lamarai Jones, Shadonna
Jones, EsStonia Moore, Eugenia
Porter, Noah Susumu Santiago-
Stephens, Lareesa Warren, Jessica
Williams, Kendra Williams and Jarid
Wilson.

SUA (Galley Opera-
tions) – Graduated No-
vember 2 (photo at right,
in alphabetical order):
Reginald Howard, Billie
Mahealani Kawelo, Alize
Lassiter, Christian Louis,
Gerardo Kaindoy Melano,
Wilfredo Ramos Silva,
James Scott, Tahn Stuart,
Nicholas Tacy, Jalisa Wil-
liams and Derek Wilson.

Chief Steward 2.0 – Graduated October 19 (above, in alphabetical order): Tommy Bel-
vin, Karl Meyer, Mark Salvador Scardino and Velicia Williams.

Galley Operations – Graduated October 5 (above, from left): Stevon Taylor, Porcia John-
son and Tuliga Fuega.

Chief Steward – Graduated November 9: (above, from left), Merly Ford,
real Coronel and Delia Miral Peters.

Certified Chief Cook (Module 3) – Graduated November 30 (above, from left): John Billington, Alvinmar
Iremedio Aldana, Dindo Prellagera Reforsado and Norma Painitan Baucan.

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September 2019 Seafarers LOG 23

Paul Hall Center Classes
Basic Training (Basic Firefighting Up-
graders) – Graduated April 12 (left, in
alphabetical order): Mohamed Kaid Algal-
ham, Ronald Burris, Keith Carswell, Eric
Ivan-Ray Castle, Duane Evans, Dennis
Fitzpatrick, Harold Gerber II, Kassim Gha-
leb Ghaleb, Twawang M Gyurme, Doyle
Ling, Larry Skowronek, Glenn Snow, Marc
Tantre, Alexander Young Jr., and Antonio
Duhaylungsod Zorrilla.

Certified Chief Cook (Module 6) – Graduated April 6 (above, in alphabetical order): Erwin Raphael Salu-
dares Asinas, Andres Brown, Gilma David, James Gerry, Dominique Villanueva-Kaaiahua and Deja Watson.

Chief Steward 2.0 – Graduated April 19 (above, from left): Richard
Sanderson, Juan Luis Guanill and Kimberly Strate.

Chief Cook 2.0 – Graduated April 12 (above, from left): David Simon, Andy Cam-
pollo and Rae Williams.

Chief Steward 2.0 – Graduated April 5 (above, in alphabetical order): Peter Crum, Ismael Ar-
mando Garayua, Benjamin Ines, William Kane and Troy Smith. (Note: Not all are pictured.)

Advanced Galley Ops – Graduated April 26 (above, from left): Sharray
Turner, Jeffery Toliver Jr., and Luis Jose Perez Acosta.

Basic & Advanced Firefighting Revalidation – Graduated April 5 (above, in alphabetical order): Jason
Boyer, Michael Condron, Nicholas Conway, Matthew Coogan, Van Dixon, Maxwell Fleischfresser, Paul
Howard, Bud Sok Khuth, Robert Lapointe, Niels Lund, Wade Poor, Michael Washburn, Foster Watts Jr.,
and Alan Willliams.

April 2019 Seafarers LOG 27

Paul Hall Center Classes
SUA (Galley Operations) – Grad-
uated October 5 (photo at left, in
alphabetical order): Alexandra Er-
ickson, Paisami Gay, Daniel How-
ard, Lamarai Jones, Shadonna
Jones, EsStonia Moore, Eugenia
Porter, Noah Susumu Santiago-
Stephens, Lareesa Warren, Jessica
Williams, Kendra Williams and Jarid
Wilson.

SUA (Galley Opera-
tions) – Graduated No-
vember 2 (photo at right,
in alphabetical order):
Reginald Howard, Billie
Mahealani Kawelo, Alize
Lassiter, Christian Louis,
Gerardo Kaindoy Melano,
Wilfredo Ramos Silva,
James Scott, Tahn Stuart,
Nicholas Tacy, Jalisa Wil-
liams and Derek Wilson.

Chief Steward 2.0 – Graduated October 19 (above, in alphabetical order): Tommy Bel-
vin, Karl Meyer, Mark Salvador Scardino and Velicia Williams.

Galley Operations – Graduated October 5 (above, from left): Stevon Taylor, Porcia John-
son and Tuliga Fuega.

Chief Steward – Graduated November 9: (above, from left), Merly Ford,
real Coronel and Delia Miral Peters.

Certified Chief Cook (Module 3) – Graduated November 30 (above, from left): John Billington, Alvinmar
Iremedio Aldana, Dindo Prellagera Reforsado and Norma Painitan Baucan.

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54929_SEPTEMBER_LOG_2019.indd 23 8/20/2019 6:21:52 PM



Text “Join” to 97779
To Sign Up for SIU

Text Alerts
O F F I C I A L P U B L I C A T I O N O F T H E S E A F A R E R S I N T E R N A T I O N A L U N I O N A T L A N T I C , G U L F, L A K E S A N D I N L A N D W A T E R S , A F L - C I O

SEPTEMBER 2019 VOLUME 81, NO. 9

Seafarers and SIU officials recently
helped celebrate two milestones with a
longtime employer of union boatmen.

The Great Lakes Towing Company on
July 22 hosted a dual celebration in Cleve-
land – recognizing the organization’s 120th
anniversary and also christening the new
tugboat Michigan. Crew members didn’t
stay long, but that was for a good reason:
They had to get back to work, a reflection
of the company’s full schedule.

SIU Executive Vice President Augie
Tellez, Vice President Great Lakes Tom
Orzechowski, Port Agent Todd Brdak
and Patrolman Gerret Jarman attended
the gathering at Merwin’s Wharf on the
Cuyahoga River. Daniel Duncan, execu-
tive secretary-treasurer of the Maritime
Trades Department, AFL-CIO, also at-
tended.

Great Lakes Towing boasts the largest
American-flag tugboat fleet on the Lakes,
and provides harbor assist and towing ser-
vices to ships in more than 40 U.S. Great
Lakes ports.

“Through decades of changes, experi-
encing both the highs and lows, the com-
pany has endured, and remained a critical
link in the Great Lakes transportation sys-
tem,” said Joe Starck, company president.
“We have always tried to be an outstanding
corporate citizen. We are proud to be cel-

ebrating 120 years, and we look forward to
many more.”

The Michigan was christened by ves-
sel sponsor Carolyn Watkins, an official
with the Ohio Environmental Protection
Agency. According to Great Lakes Tow-
ing, she “was instrumental in helping
the company secure funding assistance
through the EPA’s Diesel Emissions Re-
duction Grant program for the fleet’s new
construction program.”

The Michigan is the third in a series of
five, 64-foot harbor tugs that Great Lakes
Shipyard is building for Great Lakes Tow-
ing’s operation. It is powered by two diesel
engines and generates more than 30 tons
of bollard pull, but it also features a hy-
brid system that will allow it to operate on
electricity while at idle, underway at low
speeds, or when under low loads.

“The tug’s compact size and high ma-
neuverability make it ideal for the narrow
waterways and low bridges that character-
ize harbor towing on the Great Lakes,” the
company noted.

The tugs Cleveland and Ohio were the
first new ones built in the series as part
of the company’s fleet renewal program.
The fourth tug, Pennsylvania, is slated for
completion later this year. The fifth, not
yet named, is scheduled for a Spring 2020
completion.

Great Lakes Towing Celebrates 120 Years
Ceremony Includes Christening of Tugboat Michigan

Pictured from left to right in photo at left are SIU Port Agent Todd Brdak, SIU
VP Great Lakes Tom Orzechowski, Great Lakes Towing Company President
Joseph Starck, SIU Executive VP Augie Tellez and SIU Patrolman Gerret
Jarman. Pictured from left in photo above are Exec. VP Tellez, Great Lakes
Group President Emeritus Ron Rasmus and VP Great Lakes Orzechowski.
(Rasmus is still a board member for the company.)

Attendees gather at Merwin’s Wharf in Cleveland for the ceremony.

The newest addition to the compa-
ny’s fleet (photos immediately above
and below) signals job security for
SIU boatmen. The commemorative
cake at left was served following the
christening ceremony

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